JNL SERIES TRUST
497, 1997-05-05
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<PAGE>   1
 
PROSPECTUS
May 1, 1997
 
JNL(R) SERIES TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5901 Executive Drive - Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
     JNL Series Trust ("Trust") is an open-end management investment company
organized under the laws of Massachusetts, by a Declaration of Trust, dated June
1, 1994. The Trust currently offers shares in separate Series, each with its own
investment objective. The shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company
separate accounts to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies.
 
     JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in
common stocks of issuers of any size, including larger, well-established
companies and smaller, emerging growth companies.
 
     JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by emphasizing investments in
common stocks of medium-sized companies. Although the Series expects to
emphasize such securities, it may also invest in smaller or larger companies.
 
     JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term
growth of capital by investing primarily in common stocks of foreign and
domestic issuers of any size. This Series normally invests in issuers from at
least five different countries including the United States.
 
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term capital
appreciation by investing in a diversified, actively managed portfolio of equity
securities, primarily of companies with total market capitalization of $1
billion or greater.
 
     JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term growth
of capital. Since income is not an objective, any income generated by the
investment of this Series' assets will be incidental to its objective. It is
intended that this Series will invest primarily in the common stocks of
companies believed by the sub-adviser to have opportunity for capital growth.
 
     JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES seeks as its investment objective capital
growth, with income as a secondary objective by investing primarily in common
stocks which the sub-adviser believes to be undervalued relative to underlying
asset value or earnings potential at the time of purchase.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES seeks as its investment objective
reasonable income, long-term capital growth and preservation of capital. It is
intended that this Series will invest in common stocks and fixed income
securities, with emphasis on income-producing securities which appear to have
some potential for capital enhancement.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income; its secondary investment objective is capital
appreciation by investing in fixed income securities, with emphasis on higher-
yielding, higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES seeks as its investment objective as
high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation of capital
and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high-quality, short-term money
market instruments.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the Series will seek
capital appreciation. The Series seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in
a globally diverse portfolio of fixed income investments and by giving the
sub-adviser broad discretion to deploy the Series' assets among certain segments
of the fixed income market that the sub-adviser believes will best contribute to
achievement of the Series' investment objectives. In pursuing its investment
objectives, the Series reserves the right to invest predominantly in securities
rated in medium or lower rating categories or as determined by the sub-adviser
to be of
 
                                        1
<PAGE>   2
 
comparable quality. Although the Series has the ability to invest up to 100% of
the Series' assets in lower-rated securities, the Series' sub-adviser does not
anticipate investing in excess of 75% of the Series' assets in such securities.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES seeks as its
investment objective a high level of current income, by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment-grade bonds.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment
objective long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital through investments primarily
in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective
long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common stock of
companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the potential
for above average growth.
 
     As a result of the market risk inherent in any investment, there is no
assurance that the investment objective of any of the Series will be realized.
Investments in a Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by the U.S.
Government or any other entity or person, and there can be no assurance that the
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series will be able to maintain a stable net asset
value of $1.00 per share.
 
     THE PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES INVESTS PREDOMINANTLY IN, AND
THE JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES, JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES
SERIES, PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES AND SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND
SERIES MAY INVEST IN HIGH YIELD, HIGH RISK BONDS. BONDS OF THIS TYPE ARE
TYPICALLY SUBJECT TO GREATER MARKET FLUCTUATIONS AND RISK OF LOSS OF INCOME AND
PRINCIPAL DUE TO DEFAULT BY THE ISSUER THAN ARE INVESTMENTS IN LOWER YIELDING,
HIGHER RATED BONDS. (SEE "INVESTMENT RISKS".)
 
     Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series, the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was
the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity
Series was the PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series.
 
     This Prospectus provides you with the basic information you should know
before investing in the Series. You should read it and keep it for future
reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated May 1, 1997, has been
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You can obtain a copy without
charge by calling (800) 322-8257, or writing the JNL Series Trust Service
Center, P.O. Box 25127, Lansing, MI 48909. The Securities and Exchange
Commission maintains a Web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains the Statement
of Additional Information, material incorporated by reference, and other
information regarding registrants that file electronically with the Commission.
                            ------------------------
 
     THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
                            ------------------------
 
  THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, DATED MAY 1, 1997, IS INCORPORATED
                              HEREIN BY REFERENCE.
 
                                        2
<PAGE>   3
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOPIC                                                           PAGE
- -----                                                           ----
<S>                                                             <C>
TRUST EXPENSES..............................................       4
 
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS........................................       6
 
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES..........................      10
 
COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.........      23
 
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST.....................................      30
 
INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES..................................      35
 
SHARE REDEMPTION............................................      35
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION......................................      36
 
PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES......................      37
 
TAX STATUS..................................................      38
</TABLE>
 
                                        3
<PAGE>   4
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                 TRUST EXPENSES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON PURCHASES                         NONE
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON REINVESTED DIVIDENDS              NONE
DEFERRED SALES LOAD                                             NONE
REDEMPTION FEES                                                 NONE
EXCHANGE FEE                                                    NONE
</TABLE>
 
ANNUAL SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
(As a percentage of average net assets.)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               OTHER
                                                              MANAGEMENT   EXPENSES(AFTER      TOTAL SERIES
                                                                 FEE       REIMBURSEMENT)   OPERATING EXPENSES
                                                              ----------   --------------   ------------------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>              <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%           .15%               1.15%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%           .15%              1.125%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series*...................................     .90%           .15%               1.05%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series*.............................     .90%           .15%               1.05%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series*............................     .75%           .15%                .90%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%           .15%                .90%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%           .15%                .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%           .15%                .85%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%           .15%               1.25%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
</TABLE>
 
      *The management fees for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series, JNL/Putnam Value
Equity Series and the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series were changed effective May
1, 1997. See "Management of the Trust." The changes represent an increase in
management fees for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series when net assets exceed $50
million, an increase in management fees for the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series
at all net asset levels and a decrease in management fees for the PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series at all net asset levels.
 
     Currently, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. will reimburse each of
the Series for annual expenses (excluding Management Fees) in excess of .15% of
average daily net assets. Voluntary reimbursements to these Series may be
modified or discontinued at any time. Prior to reimbursement, Total Series
Operating Expenses as a percentage of net assets for the period ended December
31, 1996, were: JNL Aggressive Growth Series -- 1.40%; JNL Capital Growth Series
- -- 1.27%; JNL Global Equities Series -- 1.63%; JNL/Alger Growth Series -- 1.19%;
JNL/Putnam Growth Series -- 1.27%; JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series -- 1.53%; PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series -- 1.22%; PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series --
1.21%; PPM America/JNL Money Market Series -- .85%; Salomon Brothers/JNL Global
Bond Series -- 1.44%; Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series
- -- 1.37%; T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series -- 1.11%; T. Rowe
Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series -- 1.29%; and T. Rowe Price/JNL
Mid-Cap Growth Series -- 1.14%.
 
                                        4
<PAGE>   5
 
EXAMPLE -
 
     The following example illustrates the expenses you would incur on a $1,000
investment, assuming (1) 5% annual return and (2) redemption at the end of each
time period:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1 YEAR    3 YEARS    5 YEARS    10 YEARS
                                                                ------    -------    -------    --------
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Global Equities Series..................................     $12        $37        $63        $140
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................     $11        $36        $62        $137
JNL/Putnam Growth Series....................................     $11        $33        $58        $128
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series..............................     $11        $33        $58        $128
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series.............................     $ 9        $29        $50        $111
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     $ 9        $29        $50        $111
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     $ 8        $24        $42        $93
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     $10        $32        $55        $122
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     $ 9        $27        $47        $105
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     $10        $32        $55        $122
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     $13        $40        $69        $151
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     $11        $35        $61        $134
</TABLE>
 
     The purpose of this table is to assist you in understanding the various
costs and expenses that you will bear directly or indirectly. The example
assumes a 5% annual rate of return pursuant to the requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. This hypothetical rate of return is not
intended to be representative of past or future performance of the Series.
 
                                        5
<PAGE>   6
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     The following table provides selected per share data for one share of each
Series. The information does not reflect any charges imposed by a separate
account investing in shares of the Series. You should refer to the appropriate
separate account prospectus for additional information regarding such charges.
 
     The information has been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent
accountants, and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and
notes thereto, together with the report of Price Waterhouse LLP included in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              JNL AGGRESSIVE                  JNL CAPITAL                     JNL GLOBAL
                                              GROWTH SERIES                  GROWTH SERIES                 EQUITIES SERIES
                                       ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------
                                       PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
                                         APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
                                         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
                                       DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                           1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996
                                       ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>                                    <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF
  PERIOD.............................     $13.13         $10.00          $13.86         $10.00          $13.75          $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss).........       0.05           0.01            0.06             --            0.03            0.10
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items......................       1.10           3.53            0.70           4.70            2.72            4.02
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Total income from investment
  operations.........................       1.15           3.54            0.76           4.70            2.75            4.12
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income...........      (0.05)            --              --             --           (0.08)             --
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions.......................      (0.71)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (0.90)          (0.37)
Return of capital....................      (0.14)            --              --             --           (0.32)             --
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Total distributions..................      (0.90)         (0.41)         (0.16)          (0.84)          (1.30)          (0.37)
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Net increase.........................       0.25           3.13            0.60           3.86            1.45            3.75
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD.......     $13.38         $13.13          $14.46         $13.86          $15.20          $13.75
                                         =======         ======         =======         ======         =======         =======
TOTAL RETURN(A)......................       8.72%         35.78%           5.45%         47.94%          19.99%          41.51%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands).........................    $29,555         $8,527         $36,946         $9,578         $48,638         $16,141
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c).......................       1.09%          1.09%           1.09%          1.09%           1.14%           1.15%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)...........       0.77%          0.27%           0.91%         (0.49)%          0.37%           0.39%
Portfolio turnover rate..............      85.22%        163.84%         115.88%        128.56%          52.02%         142.36%
Average commission rate paid(d)......    $0.0242            n/a         $0.0196            n/a         $0.0162             n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID
  INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b)..........................       1.40%          2.77%           1.27%          2.08%           1.63%           2.25%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)..............       0.46%         (1.41)%          0.73%         (1.48)%         (0.12)%         (0.71)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
 *  Commencement of operations.
**  Effective May 1, 1997, the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series is
    the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and is managed by PPM America, Inc., the
    JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series is the JNL/Putnam Growth Series
    and is managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc., and the PPM
    America/JNL Value Equity Series is the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series and is
    managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc.
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all distributions, and a complete redemption of the
    investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total return is
    not annualized.
(b) Annualized.
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        6
<PAGE>   7
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT       JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES     COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES**     COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES**            BOND SERIES
    --------------------------   --------------------------   --------------------------   --------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,     OCTOBER 16,     APRIL 1,       MAY 15,       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO
    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,
        1996          1996           1996          1996           1996          1996           1996          1996
    ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------
<S>                <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
       $10.38        $10.00         $11.17        $10.00         $12.50        $10.00         $10.23        $10.00
           --            --           0.10          0.25           0.04          0.01           0.51          0.73
         0.78          0.38           0.98          1.40           2.12          3.66           0.64          0.04
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
         0.78          0.38           1.08          1.65           2.16          3.67           1.15          0.77
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
           --            --          (0.15)        (0.19)         (0.05)           --          (0.69)        (0.54)
           --            --          (0.18)        (0.29)         (0.40)        (1.17)         (0.02)           --
           --            --             --            --             --            --             --            --
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
           --            --          (0.33)        (0.48)         (0.45)        (1.17)         (0.71)        (0.54)
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
         0.78          0.38           0.75          1.17           1.71          2.50           0.44          0.23
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
       $11.16        $10.38         $11.92        $11.17         $14.21        $12.50         $10.67        $10.23
      =======        ======         ======        ======        =======        ======        =======        ======
         7.51%         3.80%          9.72%        16.60%         17.28%        37.69%         11.24%         7.82%
      $38,252        $8,649        $24,419        $4,761        $22,804        $2,518        $13,396        $6,156
         1.07%         1.03%          1.04%         1.01%          1.04%         0.95%          0.88%         0.88%
        (0.02)%       (0.17)%         2.39%         2.99%          0.94%         0.28%          8.64%         8.34%
        59.92%        50.85%        158.15%       115.84%        184.33%       255.03%        113.08%       186.21%
      $0.0441           n/a        $0.0494           n/a        $0.0175           n/a            n/a           n/a
         1.19%         1.89%          1.22%         3.71%          1.27%         5.38%          1.21%         1.50%
        (0.14)%       (1.03)%         2.21%         0.29%          0.71%        (4.15)%         8.31%         7.72%
</TABLE>
 
                                        7
<PAGE>   8
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                PPM AMERICA/JNL               PPM AMERICA/JNL            SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                                              MONEY MARKET SERIES          VALUE EQUITY SERIES**          GLOBAL BOND SERIES
                                          ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                          PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                                            APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
                                            1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
                                          DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                              1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
                                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD....       $1.00         $1.00         $12.77         $10.00         $10.46         $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss)............       0.04           0.04           0.10           0.23           0.42           0.81
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items.........................         --             --           1.97           2.86           0.70           0.24
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Total income from investment
  operations............................       0.04           0.04           2.07           3.09           1.12           1.05
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income..............      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.15)         (0.17)         (0.69)         (0.56)
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions..........................         --             --          (0.19)         (0.15)         (0.26)         (0.03)
Return of capital.......................         --             --             --             --             --             --
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Total distributions.....................      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.34)         (0.32)         (0.95)         (0.59)
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Net increase............................         --             --           1.73           2.77           0.17           0.46
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD..........      $1.00          $1.00         $14.50         $12.77         $10.63         $10.46
                                            =======         ======        =======         ======        =======         ======
TOTAL RETURN(A).........................       3.61%          4.59%         16.25%         31.14%         10.68%         10.74%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands)............................    $23,752         $6,816        $17,761         $3,365        $12,483         $6,380
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c)..........................       0.75%          0.75%          0.85%          0.87%          0.99%          1.00%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)..............       4.75%          5.06%          2.29%          2.33%          7.52%          9.01%
Portfolio turnover rate.................         --             --          13.71%         30.12%        109.85%        152.89%
Average commission rate paid(d).........        n/a            n/a        $0.0259             n/a           n/a            n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b).............................       0.85%          1.30%          1.53%          2.28%          1.44%          2.14%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b).................       4.65%          4.51%          1.61%          0.91%          7.07%          7.87%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 * Commencement of operations.
 
** Effective May 1, 1997, the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series is
the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and is managed by PPM America, Inc., the
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series is the JNL/Putnam Growth Series and
is managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc., and the PPM America/JNL Value
Equity Series is the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series and is managed by Putnam
Investment Management, Inc.
 
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, and a complete redemption
    of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total
    return is not annualized.
 
(b) Annualized.
 
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
 
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        8
<PAGE>   9
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S.                                        T. ROWE PRICE/
       GOVERNMENT & QUALITY            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL             JNL INTERNATIONAL             T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
            BOND SERIES            ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES     EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES        MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
    ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
        1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
    ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
       $10.09         $10.00         $11.36         $10.00         $11.25         $10.00         $13.43         $10.00
         0.24           0.45           0.03           0.07           0.06           0.04          (0.05)          0.06
         0.24           0.02           1.81           2.68           0.90           1.21           1.92           3.90
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.48           0.47           1.84           2.75           0.96           1.25           1.87           3.96
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.34)         (0.34)         (0.04)         (0.06)         (0.12)            --          (0.05)            --
        (0.03)         (0.04)         (0.09)         (1.33)         (0.01)            --          (0.36)         (0.53)
           --             --          (0.51)            --             --             --             --             --
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.37)         (0.38)         (0.64)         (1.39)         (0.13)            --          (0.41)         (0.53)
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.11           0.09           1.20           1.36           0.83           1.25           1.46           3.43
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
       $10.20         $10.09         $12.56         $11.36         $12.08         $11.25         $14.89         $13.43
      =======         ======        =======         ======        =======        =======        =======        =======
         4.82%          4.65%         16.12%         28.23%          8.54%         12.50%         13.91%         40.06%
       $9,832         $3,007        $32,291         $8,772        $48,204         $24,211       $47,104        $10,545
         0.84%          0.84%          1.00%          1.00%          1.25%          1.25%          1.10%          1.10%
         5.72%          5.41%          0.59%          0.75%          1.09%          0.78%         (0.18)%         0.82%
       218.50%        253.37%         36.41%        101.13%          5.93%         16.45%         25.05%         66.04%
          n/a            n/a        $0.0288            n/a        $0.0257            n/a        $0.0326            n/a
         1.37%          2.53%          1.11%          2.09%          1.29%          2.14%          1.14%          2.10%
         5.19%          3.72%          0.48%         (0.34)%         1.05%         (0.11)%        (0.22)%        (0.18)%
</TABLE>
 
     Each Series' recent performance and holdings will be detailed twice a year
in the Trust's annual and semi-annual reports, which are sent to all
shareholders.
 
                                        9
<PAGE>   10
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Investments in each Series are made in many different securities which
provide diversification to minimize risk. While there is careful selection of
portfolio securities and constant supervision by a team of professional
investment managers, there can be no guarantee that the Series' objectives will
be achieved. Because of differences in investment objectives and policies, as
well as acceptable degrees of risk, the performance of a Series may differ even
though more than one Series may utilize the same securities selection.
 
     Unless otherwise stated, the investment objectives and policies set forth
in this Prospectus are not fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees
without shareholder approval. Each Series is subject to additional investment
policies and restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information,
some of which are fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder
approval.
 
     Currently, shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company separate
accounts ("Accounts") to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies
("Policies") issued by life insurance companies. The Accounts purchase shares of
the Trust in accordance with variable account allocation instructions received
from owners of the Policies. The Trust then uses the proceeds to buy securities
for its Series. The investment adviser manages the Series from day to day to
accomplish the Trust's investment objectives. The kinds of investments and the
way they are managed depends on what is happening in the economy and the
financial marketplaces. Each of the Accounts, as a shareholder, has an ownership
in the Trust's investments. The Trust also offers to buy back (redeem) shares of
the Trust from the Accounts at any time at net asset value.
 
     Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. ("JNFSI"), a wholly owned
subsidiary of Jackson National Life Insurance Company, serves as investment
adviser for all the Series of the Trust. Janus Capital Corporation serves as
sub-adviser for the JNL Capital Growth, JNL Aggressive Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series; Fred Alger Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the
JNL/Alger Growth Series; Putnam Investment Management, Inc. serves as
sub-adviser for the JNL/Putnam Growth and JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series; PPM
America, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the PPM America/JNL Balanced, PPM
America/JNL High Yield Bond and PPM America/JNL Money Market Series; Salomon
Brothers Asset Management Inc serves as sub-adviser for the Salomon Brothers/JNL
U.S. Government & Quality Bond and Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series; T.
Rowe Price Associates, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series; and Rowe
Price-Fleming International, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe
Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series.
 
     Reference is made herein to ratings assigned to certain types of securities
by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("S&P"), Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
("Moody's"), Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch"), Duff & Phelps, Inc. ("Duff
& Phelps") and Thomson BankWatch, Inc., recognized independent securities
ratings institutions. A description of the ratings categories assigned by S&P
and Moody's is contained in Appendix A.
 
DIVERSIFICATION
 
     Each of the Series except the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth
Series qualifies as a diversified investment company under the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"). As a fundamental policy, a diversified
fund will not purchase a security of any issuer (except cash items and U.S.
Government securities) if a) it would cause the Series to own more than 10% of
the outstanding voting securities of that issuer or b) it would cause the
Series' holdings of that issuer to amount to more than 5% of the Series' total
assets (as applied in each case to 75% of the Series' total assets). As a
fundamental policy, the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series also
will not purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any
issuer; however, only 50% of total assets are subject to the 5% test. The JNL
Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series may invest up to 50% of total
assets in the securities of as few as two issuers (not to exceed 25% in any one
issuer) while the other Series may invest up to 25% of their total assets in the
securities of one issuer. Neither the JNL Capital Growth nor the JNL Aggressive
Growth Series anticipates concentrating its holdings in so few issuers unless
its sub-adviser believes a security has the potential for substantial capital
appreciation consistent with a Series' investment policies and goals. To the
extent that any Series invests more than 5% of its assets in a particular
issuer, its exposure to credit risks and/or market risks associated with that
issuer increases. As an additional fundamental policy, no Series will invest
more than 25% of its total assets in any particular industry (other than U.S.
Government securities), except that the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series may
invest a greater percent of its assets in the domestic banking industry.
 
                                       10
<PAGE>   11
 
  INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS) LIMITATIONS
 
     In addition to the diversification requirements stated above, each Series
intends to comply with the diversification requirements currently imposed by the
IRS on separate accounts of insurance companies as a condition of maintaining
the tax-deferred status of variable contracts. More specific information may be
contained in the participating insurance company's separate account prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Aggressive Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital. It is a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing primarily in common stocks of issuers of any size,
including larger, well-established companies and smaller, emerging growth
companies. The smaller or newer a company is, the more likely it may be to
suffer more significant losses as well as realize more substantial growth than
larger or more established issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Capital Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment objective by normally
investing at least 50% of its equity assets in securities issued by medium-sized
companies. Medium-sized companies are those whose market capitalizations fall
within the range of companies in the S&P MidCap 400 Index (the "MidCap Index").
Companies whose capitalization falls outside this range after the Series'
initial purchase continue to be considered medium-sized companies for the
purpose of this policy. As of December 30, 1996, the MidCap Index included
companies with capitalizations between approximately $192 million and $6.5
billion. The range of the MidCap Index is expected to change on a regular basis.
Subject to the above policy, the Series may also invest in smaller or larger
issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Global Equities Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a diversified Series that pursues its investment objective primarily through
investments in common stocks of foreign and domestic issuers. The Series is
permitted to invest on a worldwide basis in companies and other organizations of
any size, regardless of country of organization or place of principal business
activity, as well as domestic and foreign governments, government agencies and
other governmental entities. The Series normally invests in securities of
issuers from at least five different countries, including the United States,
although the Series may at times invest all of its assets in fewer than five
countries. The JNL Global Equities Series may not be suitable for investors that
are not able to bear the additional risks associated with the Series' more
extensive holdings of foreign securities.
 
                                       11
<PAGE>   12
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES,
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth, and JNL Global
Equities Series invests substantially all of its assets in common stocks when
its sub-adviser believes that the relevant market environment favors profitable
investing in those securities. Common stock investments are selected in
industries and companies that the sub-adviser believes are experiencing
favorable demand for their products and services, and which operate in a
favorable competitive environment and regulatory climate. The sub-adviser's
analysis and selection process focuses on stocks with earnings growth potential
that may not be recognized by the market. Such securities are selected primarily
for their capital growth potential; investment income is not a consideration.
These selection criteria apply equally to stocks of foreign issuers. In
addition, factors such as expected levels of inflation, government policies
influencing business conditions, the outlook for currency relationships, and
prospects for relative economic growth among countries, regions or geographic
areas may warrant greater consideration in selecting foreign stocks.
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series invests primarily in common stocks of foreign and domestic
companies. Each Series may invest to a lesser degree in other types of
securities, including preferred stock, warrants, convertible securities and debt
securities. Debt securities that the Series may purchase include corporate bonds
and debentures (not to exceed 35% of net assets in high-yield/high-risk bonds)
(See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds"); government securities;
mortgage- and asset-backed securities (not to exceed 25% of assets); zero coupon
bonds (not to exceed 10% of assets); indexed/structured notes; high-grade
commercial paper; certificates of deposit; and repurchase agreements. Such
securities may offer growth potential because of anticipated changes in interest
rates, credit standing, currency relationships or other factors. Each of these
Series may also invest in short-term debt securities as a means of receiving a
return on idle cash.
 
     When the Series' sub-adviser believes that market conditions are not
favorable for profitable investing or when the sub-adviser is otherwise unable
to locate favorable investment opportunities, the Series' investments may be
hedged to a greater degree and/or its cash or similar investments may increase.
In other words, the Series do not always stay fully invested in stocks and
bonds. Cash or similar investments are residual -- they represent the assets
that remain after the sub-adviser has committed available assets to desirable
investment opportunities. When a Series' cash position increases, it may not
participate in stock market advances or declines to the extent that it would if
it remained more fully invested in common stocks.
 
     Although JNL Global Equities Series is committed to foreign investing, each
of these Series may invest without limit in equity and debt securities of
foreign issuers. The Series may invest directly in foreign securities
denominated in a foreign currency and not publicly traded in the United States.
Other ways of investing in foreign securities include depositary receipts or
shares, and passive foreign investment companies. Each of these Series may use
futures, options and other derivatives for hedging purposes or as a means of
enhancing return. Some securities that these Series may purchase may be issued
on a when-issued, delayed delivery or forward commitment basis.
 
     Each of JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global Equities
Series may invest in "special situations" from time to time. A special situation
arises when, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, the securities of a particular
issuer will be recognized and appreciate in value due to a specific development
with respect to that issuer. Developments creating special situations might
include, among others, a new product or process, a technological breakthrough, a
management change or other extraordinary corporate event, or differences in
market supply of and demand for the security. Investment in special situations
may carry an additional risk of loss in the event that the anticipated
development does not occur or does not attract the expected attention. The
impact of this strategy on a Series will depend on the Series' size and the
extent of its holdings of special situation issuers relative to total net
assets.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>   13
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Alger Growth Series is long-term
capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series that seeks to achieve its
objective by investing in equity securities, such as common or preferred stocks
that are listed on a national securities exchange, or securities convertible
into or exchangeable for equity securities, including warrants and rights.
Except during temporary defensive periods, the Series invests at least 85
percent of its net assets in equity securities and at least 65 percent of its
total assets in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase of
the securities, have total market capitalization of $1 billion or greater.
 
     It is anticipated that the Series will invest primarily in companies whose
securities are traded on domestic stock exchanges or in the over-the-counter
market. These companies may still be in the developmental stage, may be older
companies that appear to be entering a new stage of growth progress owing to
factors such as management changes or development of new technology, products or
markets or may be companies providing products or services with a high unit
volume growth rate. The Series may invest up to 35 percent of its total assets
in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase, have total
market capitalization of less than $1 billion. In order to afford the Series the
flexibility to take advantage of new opportunities for investments in accordance
with its investment objective, the Series may hold up to 15 percent of its net
assets in money market instruments and repurchase agreements. During temporary
defensive periods, the Series may invest up to 100% of its assets in debt
securities, money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. The Portfolio
may also purchase restricted securities (subject to a limit on all illiquid
securities of 10 percent of net assets), lend its securities and enter into
"short sales against the box." (See "Common Types of Securities and Management
Practices").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Putnam Growth Series is to seek
long-term capital growth. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by retaining maximum flexibility in the management of the Series
consisting mainly of common stocks. Since income is not an objective, any income
generated by the investment of the Series' assets will be incidental to its
objective.
 
     The Series intends to invest primarily in the common stocks of companies
believed by the sub-adviser to have opportunities for capital growth. However,
since no one class or type of security at all times necessarily affords the
greatest promise for capital appreciation, the Series may invest any amount or
proportion of its assets in any class or type of security believed by the
sub-adviser to offer potential for capital appreciation over both the
intermediate and long term. Normally, of course, its investment will consist
largely of common stocks selected for the promise they offer of appreciation of
capital. However, the Series may also invest in preferred stocks, bonds,
convertible preferred stocks and convertible debentures if, in the judgment of
the sub-adviser, the investment would further its investment objectives. The
Series may invest up to 20% of its net assets in foreign securities. The Series
may also engage in certain options transactions and enter into financial futures
contracts and related options. Each security held will be monitored to determine
whether it is contributing to the basic objective of long-term growth of
capital.
 
     The sub-adviser believes that a portfolio of such securities provides the
most effective way to obtain capital appreciation, but when, for temporary
defensive purposes (as when market conditions for growth stocks are adverse),
other types of investments appear advantageous on the basis of combined
considerations of risk and the protection of capital values, investments may be
made in fixed income securities with or without warrants or conversion features.
In addition, for such temporary defensive purposes, the Series may pursue a
policy of retaining cash or investing part or all of its assets in cash
equivalents.
 
     To the extent that the Series holds bonds, it may be negatively affected by
adverse interest rate movements and credit quality. Generally, when interest
rates rise it may be expected that the value of bonds may decrease.
 
                                       13
<PAGE>   14
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series is capital
growth, with income as a secondary objective by investing primarily in common
stocks which the sub-adviser believes to be undervalued relative to underlying
asset value or earnings potential at the time of purchase. It is a diversified
Series that seeks superior market cycle total returns. The Series invests
primarily in the common stocks of large capitalization companies mainly
domiciled in the United States. Common stocks for this purpose include common
stocks and equivalents, such as securities convertible into common stocks and
securities having common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants to
purchase common stocks. Under normal circumstances, the Series will invest at
least 65% of the value of its total assets in equity securities.
 
     Companies considered attractive generally will have the following
characteristics: 1) stocks typically will have distinctly above average dividend
yields, and 2) the market prices of the stocks will be undervalued relative to
the normal earning power of the company. The thrust of this approach is to seek
investments where current investor enthusiasm is low, as reflected in their
valuations. Exposure is reduced when the investment community's perceptions
improve and the company approaches fair valuation.
 
     The sub-adviser takes a long-term investment approach by placing a strong
emphasis on its ability to determine attractive values and does not try to
determine short-term changes in the general market level. It is anticipated that
the annual turnover rate of the Series will not exceed 100% in normal
circumstances. The Series may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the common
stocks of foreign issuers, including American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series is to seek
reasonable income, long-term capital growth and preservation of capital. It is a
diversified Series that intends to invest based on combined consideration of
risk, income, capital enhancement, and protection of capital value. The Series
may invest in any type or class of security. Normally, the Series will invest in
common stocks and fixed income securities; however, it may also invest in
securities convertible into common stocks. At least 25% of the value of its
assets will be invested in fixed income senior securities.
 
     The Series may also engage in certain options transactions and enter into
financial futures contracts and related options for hedging purposes and may
invest in deferred or zero coupon debt obligations. In implementing the
investment objectives of this Series, the sub-adviser will select securities
believed to have potential for the production of current income, with emphasis
on securities that also have potential for capital enhancement. For temporary
defensive purposes when the sub-adviser believes that adverse market conditions
warrant, the Series may actively pursue a policy of retaining cash or investing
part or all of its assets in cash equivalents, such as government securities and
high grade commercial paper.
 
     The Series will emphasize investments in investment grade fixed income
securities which are rated within the four highest categories by recognized
rating agencies, e.g., S&P and Moody's. However, the Series may take a modest
position in lower or non-rated fixed income securities, but the Series will not
invest more than 35% of its net assets, determined at the time of investment, in
high yield, high risk fixed income securities. The Series may invest in bonds
rated as low as Ca by Moody's or CC by S&P. A fixed income securities issue may
have its ratings reduced below the minimum permitted for purchase by the Series.
In that event the sub-adviser will determine whether the Series should continue
to hold such issue in its portfolio. If, in the sub-adviser's opinion, market
conditions warrant, the Series may increase its position in lower or non-rated
securities from time to time. The lower rated and non-rated convertible
securities are predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity
to repay principal and pay interest. Investment in lower rated and non-rated
convertible fixed income securities normally involves a greater degree of market
and credit risk than does investment in securities having higher ratings. The
price of these fixed income securities will generally move in inverse proportion
to interest rates. In addition, non-rated securities are often less marketable
than rated securities. To the
 
                                       14
<PAGE>   15
 
extent that the Series holds any lower rated or non-rated securities, it may be
negatively affected by adverse economic developments, increased volatility and
lack of liquidity. (See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond
Series is a high level of current income; its secondary investment objective is
capital appreciation by investing in fixed income securities, with emphasis on
higher-yielding, higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds. It is a
diversified Series.
 
     Under normal market conditions, the Series will be invested substantially
in long-term (over 10 years to maturity) and intermediate-term (3 to 10 years to
maturity) fixed income securities, with emphasis on higher-yielding,
higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds. These high risk, high yield
bonds typically are subject to greater market fluctuations and risk of loss of
income and principal due to default by the issuer than are investments in
lower-yielding, higher-rated bonds. (See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High
Risk Bonds").
 
     High risk, high yield bonds generally include any bonds that are rated Ba
or below by Moody's or BB or below by S&P or that are unrated but considered by
the sub-adviser to be of equivalent credit quality. Bonds rated Ba or BB or
below are considered speculative. The Series may invest without limitation in
bonds rated as low as Ca by Moody's or C by S&P (or unrated but considered by
the sub-adviser to be of equivalent quality). In addition, the Series may invest
up to 10% of its total assets in bonds rated C by Moody's or D by S&P (or
unrated but considered by the sub-adviser to be of equivalent quality).
High-yield bonds are riskier than lower-yielding, higher-rated bonds.
 
     In pursuing its secondary investment objective of capital appreciation, the
Series may purchase high yield bonds that are expected by the sub-adviser to
increase in value due to improvements in their credit quality or ratings or
anticipated declines in interest rates. In addition, the Series may invest for
this purpose up to 25% of its assets in equity securities, such as common
stocks, or other securities having common stock characteristics. Securities
designated as having common stock characteristics include, but are not limited
to, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock.
 
     Treating high current income as its primary investment objective means that
the Series may forego opportunities that would result in capital gains and may
accept prudent risks to capital value, in each case to take advantage of
opportunities for higher current income.
 
     Up to 25% of the Series' assets may be invested in securities of foreign
issuers, which are generally denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar. The Series also has the ability to hold a portion of its assets in
foreign currencies and to enter into forward foreign currency exchange
contracts, currency options, currency and financial futures contracts, and
options on such futures contracts. The Series may enter into repurchase
agreements and firm commitment agreements and may purchase securities on a
when-issued basis. Investment in foreign securities also involves special risks.
 
     Under normal market conditions, the Series will invest at least 65% of its
total assets in high risk, high yield bonds as described above. Subject to this
requirement, the Series may maintain assets in cash or cash equivalents,
including commercial bank obligations (certificates of deposit, which are
interest-bearing time deposits; bankers' acceptances, which are time drafts on a
commercial bank for which the bank accepts an irrevocable obligation to pay at
maturity; and demand or time deposits), commercial paper (short-term notes
issued by corporations or governmental bodies) and obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government. The Series may adopt temporary defensive
position investment policies during adverse market, economic or other
circumstances that require immediate action to avoid losses. During periods when
and to the extent that the Series has assumed a temporary defensive position,
the Series may not be pursuing its investment objective.
 
                                       15
<PAGE>   16
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series is to
achieve as high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation
of capital and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high quality, short-term
money market instruments. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing mainly in debt, but the Series shall retain maximum
flexibility in the management of its portfolio.
 
     The Series invests in high quality money market instruments. These
instruments are considered to be among the safest investments available because
of their short maturities, liquidity and high quality ratings.
 
     This Series will invest exclusively in the following types of high quality,
U.S. dollar denominated money market instruments that mature in 397 days or
less:
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies and instrumentalities.
 
     - Obligations, such as time deposits, certificates of deposit and bankers
       acceptances, issued by U.S. banks and savings banks that are members of
       the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, including their foreign
       branches and foreign subsidiaries, and issued by domestic and foreign
       branches of foreign banks.
 
     - Corporate obligations, including commercial paper, of domestic and
       foreign issuers.
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or
       any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities,
       including obligations of supranational entities.
 
     - Repurchase agreements on obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
     Investments are managed to meet the quality and diversification
requirements of the 1940 Act. Under Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, the Series
must maintain a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of 90 days or less
and may only purchase U.S. dollar denominated instruments that are determined to
present minimal credit risks and that at the time of acquisition are rated in
the top two rating categories by the required number of nationally recognized
statistical rating organizations (at least two or, if only one rating agency has
rated the security, that one agency) or, if unrated, are deemed comparable in
quality. Determination of credit risks and quality will be made by the
sub-adviser in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trust's Board of
Trustees. The diversification requirements of Rule 2a-7 provide generally that
the Series may not at the time of acquisition invest more than 5% of its assets
in securities of any one issuer or invest more than 5% of its assets in
securities that have not been rated in the highest category by the required
number of rating agencies or, if unrated, have not been deemed comparable,
except U.S. Government securities and repurchase agreements on such securities.
A more complete description of the rating categories is set forth under Appendix
A.
 
     The Series may invest more than 25% of its total assets in the domestic
banking industry, which would cause the Series to be more exposed to the risks
of such industry. Bank obligations held by the Series do not benefit materially
from insurance from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The 25%
limitation does not apply to U.S. Government securities, including obligations
issued or guaranteed by its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond
Series is to seek a high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the
Series will seek capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series. The Series
seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in a globally diverse portfolio of
fixed income investments and by giving the sub-adviser broad discretion to
deploy the assets among certain segments of the fixed income market that the
sub-adviser believes will best contribute to the achievement of the Series'
objectives. At any point in time, the sub-adviser will deploy the Series' assets
based on its analysis of current economic and market conditions and the relative
risks and opportunities present in the following market segments: U.S.
Government obligations, investment grade domestic corporate debt, high yield
domestic corporate debt securities, mortgage-backed securities and
 
                                       16
<PAGE>   17
 
investment grade and high yield foreign corporate and sovereign debt securities.
The sub-adviser has entered into an agreement with its London-based affiliate,
Salomon Brothers Asset Management Limited ("SBAM Limited") pursuant to which
SBAM Limited will provide certain advisory services to the sub-adviser relating
to currency transactions and investments in non-dollar denominated debt
securities for the benefit of the Series.
 
     The sub-adviser will determine the amount of assets to be allocated to each
type of security in which it invests based on its assessment of the maximum
level of income and capital appreciation that can be achieved from a portfolio
which is invested in these securities. In making this determination, the
sub-adviser will rely in part on quantitative analytical techniques that measure
relative risks and opportunities of each type of security based on current and
historical economic, market, political and technical data for each type of
security, as well as on its own assessment of economic and market conditions
both on a global and local (country) basis. In performing quantitative analysis,
the sub-adviser will employ prepayment analysis and option adjusted spread
technology to evaluate mortgage securities, mean variance optimization models to
evaluate foreign debt securities, and total rate of return analysis to measure
relative risks and opportunities in other fixed income markets. Economic factors
considered will include current and projected levels of growth and inflation,
balance of payments, status and monetary policy. The allocation of assets to
foreign debt securities will further be influenced by current and expected
currency relationships and political and sovereign factors. The sub-adviser will
continuously review this allocation of assets and make such adjustments as it
deems appropriate. The Series does not plan to establish a minimum or a maximum
percentage of the assets which it will invest in any particular type of fixed
income security.
 
     In addition, the sub-adviser will have discretion to select the range of
maturities of the various fixed income securities in which the Series invests.
The sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions the Series'
portfolio securities will have a weighted average life of 6 to 10 years.
However, the weighted average life of the portfolio securities may vary
substantially from time to time depending on economic and market conditions. The
Series may adopt temporary defensive position investment policies during adverse
market, economic or other circumstances that require immediate action to avoid
losses. During periods when and to the extent that the Series has assumed a
temporary defensive position, the Series may not be pursuing its investment
objective.
 
     The investment grade corporate debt securities and the investment grade
foreign debt securities to be purchased by the Series are domestic and foreign
debt securities rated within the four highest bond ratings of either Moody's or
S&P, or, if unrated, deemed to be of equivalent quality in the sub-adviser's
judgment. While debt securities carrying the fourth highest quality rating (Baa
by Moody's or BBB by S&P) are considered investment grade and are viewed to have
adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, investments in such
securities involve a higher degree of risk than that associated with investments
in debt securities in the higher rating categories and such debt securities lack
outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative
characteristics as well. For example, changes in economic conditions or other
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal
and interest payments than is the case with higher grade debt securities.
 
     The types and characteristics of the U.S. Government obligations and
mortgage-backed securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth below in
the discussion of investment objectives and policies for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series. In addition, the Series may
purchase privately issued mortgage securities which are not guaranteed by the
U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities and may purchase stripped
mortgage securities, including interest-only and principal-only securities.
Additional information with respect to securities to be purchased by the Series
is set forth below under the sections entitled "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks."
 
     The Series may invest in debt obligations issued or guaranteed by a foreign
sovereign government or one of its agencies or political subdivisions and debt
obligations issued or guaranteed by supranational organizations. Supranational
entities include international organizations designated or supported by
governmental entities to promote economic reconstruction or development and
international banking institutions and related government agencies. Examples
include the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the "World
Bank"), the European Coal and Steel Community, the Asian Development Bank and
the Inter-American Development Bank. Such supranational issued instruments may
be denominated in multi-national currency units.
 
     In pursuing the Series' investment objectives, the Series reserves the
right to invest predominantly in medium or lower-rated securities. Although the
Series has the ability to invest up to 100% of its assets in lower-rated
securities, the Series' sub-adviser does not anticipate investing in excess of
75% of the Series' assets in such securities. Investments of this type involve
significantly greater risks, including price volatility and risk of default in
the payment of interest and principal, than higher-quality securities. The
sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions, a significant
portion of the Series assets will be invested in such
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   18
 
high risk, high yield securities. By investing a portion of the Series' assets
in securities rated below investment grade as well as through investments in
mortgage securities and foreign debt securities, the sub-adviser expects to
provide investors with a higher yield than a high-quality domestic corporate
bond fund. Certain of the debt securities in which the Series may invest may be
rated as low as C by Moody's or D by S&P or may be considered comparable to
securities having such ratings. Medium and lower-rated securities are considered
to be predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay
interest and repay principal.
 
     In light of the risks associated with high yield corporate and sovereign
debt securities, the sub-adviser will take various factors into consideration in
evaluating the creditworthiness of an issuer. For corporate debt securities,
these will typically include the issuer's financial resources, its sensitivity
to economic conditions and trends, the operating history of the issuer, and the
experience and track record of the issuer's management. For sovereign debt
instruments, these will typically include the economic and political conditions
within the issuer's country, the issuer's overall and external debt levels and
debt service ratios, the issuer's access to capital markets and other sources of
funding, and the issuer's debt service payment history. The sub-adviser will
also review the ratings, if any, assigned to the security by any recognized
rating agencies, although the sub-adviser's judgment as to the quality of a debt
security may differ from that suggested by the rating published by a rating
service. The Series' ability to achieve its investment objective may be more
dependent on the sub-adviser's credit analysis than would be the case if it
invested in higher quality debt securities.
 
     The high yield sovereign debt securities in which the Series may invest are
U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities, including Brady Bonds, and non-dollar
denominated debt securities that are issued or guaranteed by governments or
governmental entities of developing and emerging countries. The sub-adviser
expects that these countries will consist primarily of those which have issued
or have announced plans to issue Brady Bonds, but the portfolio is not limited
to investing in the debt of such countries. Brady Bonds are debt securities
issued under the framework of the Brady Plan, an initiative announced by former
U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor
nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness. (See "Investment
Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds"). The sub-adviser anticipates that the
Series' initial investments in sovereign debt will be concentrated in Latin
American countries, including Mexico and Central and South American and
Caribbean countries. The sub-adviser expects to take advantage of additional
opportunities for investment in the debt of North African countries, such as
Nigeria and Morocco, Eastern European countries, such as Poland and Hungary, and
Southeast Asian countries, such as the Philippines. Sovereign governments may
include national, provincial, state, municipal or other foreign governments with
taxing authority. Governmental entities may include the agencies and
instrumentalities of such governments, as well as state-owned enterprises. (For
a more detailed discussion of high yield sovereign debt securities, see
"Investment Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds").
 
     The Series will be subject to special risks as a result of its ability to
invest up to 100% of its assets in foreign securities (including emerging market
securities). Such securities may be non-U.S. dollar denominated and there is no
limit on the percentage of the Series' assets that can be invested in non-dollar
denominated securities. The sub-adviser anticipates that, under current market
conditions, a significant portion of the Series' assets will be invested in
foreign securities. (See "Investment Risks"). The ability to spread its
investments among the fixed income markets in a number of different countries
may, however, reduce the overall level or market risk to the extent it may
reduce the Series' exposure to a single market.
 
     The Series may invest in zero coupon securities and pay-in-kind bonds. (See
"Common Types of Securities and Management Practices"). In addition, the Series
may invest in fixed and floating rate loans ("Loans") arranged through private
negotiations between a corporate borrower or a foreign sovereign entity and one
or more financial institutions ("Lenders"). The Series may invest in such Loans
in the form of participations in Loans ("Participations") and assignments of all
or a portion of Loans from third parties ("Assignments"). The Series considers
these investments to be investments in debt securities for purposes of this
Prospectus. Participations typically will result in the Series having a
contractual relationship only with the Lender, not with the borrower. The Series
will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to
which it is entitled only from the Lender selling the Participation and only
upon receipt by the Lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with
purchasing Participations, the Series generally will have no right to enforce
compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement relating to the
Loan, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and the Series may not
benefit directly from any collateral supporting the Loan in which it has
purchased the Participation. As a result, the Series will assume the credit risk
of both the borrower and the Lender that is selling the Participation. In the
event of the insolvency of the Lender selling a Participation, the Series may be
treated as a general creditor of the Lender and may not benefit from any set-off
between the Lender and the borrower. The Series will acquire Participations only
if the Lender interpositioned between the Series and the borrower is determined
by the sub-adviser to be creditworthy. When
 
                                       18
<PAGE>   19
 
the Series purchases Assignments from Lenders, the Series will acquire direct
rights against the borrower on the Loan, except that under certain circumstances
such rights may be more limited than those held by the assigning Lender.
 
     The Series may have difficulty disposing of Assignments and Participations.
Because the market for such instruments is not highly liquid, the Series
anticipates that such instruments could be sold only to a limited number of
institutional investors. The lack of a highly liquid secondary market may have
an adverse impact on the value of such instruments and will have an adverse
impact on the Series' ability to dispose of particular Assignments or
Participations in response to a specific economic event, such as deterioration
in the creditworthiness of the borrower. The Series currently treats investments
in Participations and Assignments as illiquid for purposes of its limitation on
investment in illiquid securities. However, the Trustees may in the future adopt
policies and procedures for the purpose of determining whether Assignments and
Loan Participations are liquid or illiquid. Pursuant to such policies and
procedures, the Trustees would delegate to the sub-adviser the determination as
to whether a particular Loan Participation or Assignment is liquid or illiquid,
requiring that consideration be given to, among other things, the frequency of
quotes, the number of dealers willing to sell and the number of potential
purchasers, the nature of the Loan Participation or Assignment and the time
needed to dispose of it and the contractual provisions of the relevant
documentation. The Trustees would periodically review purchases and sales of
Assignments and Loan Participations. To the extent that liquid Assignments and
Loan Participations that the Series held became illiquid, due to the lack of
sufficient buyers or market or other conditions, the percentage of the Series'
assets invested in illiquid assets would increase.
 
     The Series may invest up to 20% of its assets in common stock, convertible
securities, warrants, preferred stock or other equity securities when consistent
with the Series' objectives. The Series will generally hold such equity
investments as a result of purchases of unit offerings of fixed income
securities which include such securities or in connection with an actual or
proposed conversion or exchange of fixed income securities, but may also
purchase equity securities not associated with fixed income securities when, in
the opinion of the sub-adviser, such purchase is appropriate.
 
     The Series currently intends to invest substantially all of its assets in
fixed income securities. In order to maintain liquidity, however, the Series may
invest up to 20% of its assets in high-quality short-term money market
instruments. If at some future date, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, adverse
conditions prevail in the market for fixed income securities, the Series for
temporary defensive purposes may invest its assets without limit in high-quality
short-term money market instruments. The types and characteristics of the money
market securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth in the discussion
of investment objectives and policies of the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, enter into mortgage "dollar rolls" and lend portfolio securities.
The Series will not make loans of portfolio securities with a value in excess of
25% of the Series' total assets. The Series may also enter into options, futures
and currency transactions, although with the exception of currency transactions,
it is not presently anticipated that any of these strategies will be utilized to
a significant degree by the Series. (See "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks"). The Series' ability to pursue
certain of these strategies may be limited by applicable regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission ("CFTC") and the federal income tax requirements applicable to
regulated investment companies.
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   20
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government &
Quality Bond Series is to obtain a high level of current income. It is a
diversified Series that seeks to attain its objective by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment grade bonds.
 
     At least 65% of the total assets of the Series will be invested in:
 
     (1) U.S. Treasury obligations;
 
     (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of
         the U.S. Government which are backed by their own credit and may not be
         backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government;
 
     (3) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National
         Mortgage Association that are supported by the full faith and credit of
         the U.S. Government. Such securities entitle the holder to receive all
         interest and principal payments due whether or not payments are
         actually made on the underlying mortgages;
 
     (4) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities
         of the U.S. Government which are supported by their own credit but not
         the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, such as the Federal
         Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the Federal National Mortgage
         Association; and
 
     (5) collateralized mortgage obligations issued by private issuers for which
         the underlying mortgage-backed securities serving as collateral are
         backed (i) by the credit alone of the U.S. Government agency or
         instrumentality which issues or guarantees the mortgage-backed
         securities, or (ii) by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
         Government.
 
     Any guarantee of the securities in which the Series invests runs only to
the principal and interest payments on the securities and not to the market
value of such securities or to the principal and interest payments on the
underlying mortgages. In addition, the guarantee only runs to the portfolio
securities held by the Series and not the purchase of shares of the Series.
 
     The Series may invest in securities of any maturity or effective duration
and, accordingly, the composition and weighted average maturity of the Series'
portfolio will vary from time to time, based upon the sub-adviser's
determination of how best to achieve the Series' investment objective. With
respect to mortgage-backed securities in which the Series invests, average
maturity and duration are determined by using mathematical models that
incorporate prepayment assumptions and other factors that involve estimates of
future economic parameters. These estimates may vary from actual results,
particularly during periods of extreme market volatility. In addition, the
average maturity and duration of mortgage-backed derivative securities may not
accurately reflect the price volatility of such securities under certain market
conditions.
 
     A significant portion of the Series' assets may from time to time be
invested in mortgage-backed securities. The mortgage-backed securities in which
the Series invests represent participating interests in pools of fixed rate and
adjustable rate residential mortgage loans issued or guaranteed by agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. Mortgage-backed securities are issued
by lenders such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, and savings and loan
associations. Mortgage-backed securities generally provide monthly payments
which are, in effect, a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal
payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the
pooled mortgage loans. Principal prepayments result from the sale of the
underlying property or the refinancing or foreclosure of underlying mortgages.
 
     The yield of mortgage-backed securities is based upon the prepayment rates
experienced over the life of the security. Prepayments tend to increase during
periods of falling interest rates, while during periods of rising interest rates
prepayments will most likely decline. Reinvestment by the Series of scheduled
principal payments and unscheduled prepayments may occur at higher or lower
rates than the original investment, thus affecting the yield of the Series.
Monthly interest payments received by the Series have a compounding effect which
will increase the yield to shareholders as compared to debt obligations that pay
interest semi-annually. Because of the reinvestment of prepayments of principal
at current rates, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than Treasury
bonds of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining
interest rates. Also, although the value of debt securities may increase as
interest rates decline, the value of these pass-through type of securities may
not increase as much due to the prepayment feature.
 
     While the Series seeks a high level of current income, it cannot invest in
instruments such as lower grade
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   21
 
corporate obligations which offer higher yields but are subject to greater
credit risks. The Series will not knowingly invest in a high risk "mortgage
security," generally defined as any mortgage security that exhibits
significantly greater price volatility than a benchmark security, the Federal
National Mortgage Association current coupon 30-year mortgage-backed pass
through security. Shares of the Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by the
U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities. Neither the issuance by nor
the guarantee of a U.S. Government agency for a security constitutes assurance
that the security will not significantly fluctuate in value or that the Series
will receive the originally anticipated yield on the security.
 
     The Series may also invest up to 35% of its assets in U.S.
dollar-denominated securities rated AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or Aaa, Aa, A or
Baa by Moody's, or if unrated, determined to be of comparable quality to
securities in those ratings categories by the sub-adviser. The Series may not
invest more than 10% of total assets in obligations of foreign issuers.
Investments in foreign securities will subject the Series to special
considerations related to political, economic and legal conditions outside of
the U.S. (See "Investment Risks"). These considerations include the possibility
of expropriation, nationalization, withholding taxes on income and difficulties
in enforcing judgments. Foreign securities may be less liquid and more volatile
than comparable U.S. securities.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, and lend portfolio securities. The Series will not make loans of
portfolio securities with a value in excess of 25% of the value of its total
assets. The Series may also enter into mortgage "dollar rolls." (For a
description of these investment practices and the risks associated with them,
see "Common Types of Securities and Management Practices" and "Investment
Risks").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series
is to seek long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies. A
growth company is defined as one which: (1) has demonstrated historical growth
of earnings faster than the growth of inflation and the economy in general; and
(2) has indications of being able to continue this growth pattern in the future.
Total return will consist primarily of capital appreciation or depreciation and
secondarily of dividend income.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest primarily in the common stock
of a diversified group of well-established growth companies. While current
dividend income is not a prerequisite in the selection of a growth company, the
companies in which the Series will invest normally have a record of paying
dividends and are generally expected to increase the amounts of such dividends
in future years as earnings increase. Although the Series will invest primarily
in U.S. common stocks, it may also purchase other types of securities, for
example, convertible securities, warrants, hybrid instruments, restricted
securities, futures and options, when considered consistent with the Series'
investment objective and program. The Series may invest up to 30% of its total
assets (excluding reserves) in foreign securities, including ADRs.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity
Investment Series is to seek long-term growth of capital through investments
primarily in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies. Total return
consists of capital appreciation or depreciation, dividend income, and currency
gains or losses.
 
     Over the last 30 years, many foreign economies have grown faster than the
United States' economy, and the return from equity investments in these
countries has often exceeded the return on similar investments in the United
States. Moreover, there has normally been a wide and largely unrelated variation
in performance between international equity markets over this period. Although
there can be no assurance that these conditions will continue, the Series'
sub-adviser, within the framework of diversification, seeks to identify and
invest in companies participating in the faster growing foreign economies and
markets. The sub-adviser believes that investment in foreign securities offers
significant potential for long-term capital appreciation and an opportunity to
achieve investment diversification. The Series may also purchase other
 
                                       21
<PAGE>   22
 
types of securities, for example, common and preferred stocks, convertible
securities, fixed income securities, hybrid instruments, restricted securities,
foreign currency transactions, futures and options.
 
     In analyzing companies for investment, the sub-adviser ordinarily looks for
one or more of the following characteristics: an above-average earnings growth
per share; high return on invested capital; healthy balance sheet; sound
financial and accounting policies and overall financial strength; strong
competitive advantages; effective research and product development and
marketing; efficient service; pricing flexibility; strength of management; and
general operating characteristics which will enable the companies to compete
successfully in their market place. While current dividend income is not a
prerequisite in the selection of portfolio companies, the companies in which the
Series invests, normally will have a record of paying dividends, and will
generally be expected to increase the amounts of such dividends in future years
as earnings increase.
 
     It is a diversified Series that intends to diversify investments broadly
among countries and to normally have at least three different countries
represented in the Series. The Series may invest in countries of the Far East
and Europe, as well as South Africa, Australia, Canada and other areas
(including developing countries). Under unusual circumstances, however, the
Series may invest substantially all of its assets in one or two countries.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series is
to provide long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common
stock of companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the
potential for above-average growth.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest at least 65% of its total
assets in a diversified portfolio of mid-cap common stocks with above-average
growth potential. A mid-cap company is defined as one whose market
capitalization falls within the capitalization range of companies included in
the S&P MidCap 400 Index. Mid-cap growth companies are often still in the early,
more dynamic phase of a company's life cycle, but have enough corporate history
that they are no longer considered new or emerging. By focusing their
activities, mid-cap companies may be more responsive and better able to adapt to
the changing needs of their markets. They are usually mature enough to have
established organizational structures and the depth of management needed to
expand their operations. In addition, these companies generally have sufficient
financial resources and access to capital to finance their growth.
 
     While investing in mid-cap growth companies generally entails greater risk
and volatility than investing in large, well-established companies, mid-cap
companies are expected to offer the potential for more rapid growth. They may
also offer greater potential for capital appreciation because of their higher
growth rates. In addition, the stocks of such companies are less actively
followed by securities analysts and may, therefore, be undervalued by investors.
 
     The sub-adviser will rely on its proprietary research to identify mid-cap
companies with attractive growth prospects. The Series will seek to invest
primarily in companies which: 1) offer proven products or services, 2) have a
historical record of earnings growth that is above average, 3) demonstrate the
potential to sustain earnings growth, 4) operate in industries experiencing
increasing demand, and/or 5) are believed to be reasonably valued in the
marketplace. There is, of course, no guarantee the Series will be able to
identify such companies or that its investment in them will be successful.
 
     Although the Series will invest primarily in U.S. common stocks, it may
also purchase other types of securities, for example, convertible securities,
restricted securities, hybrid instruments, warrants, futures and options, when
considered consistent with the Series' investment objective and program. The
Series may invest up to 25% of its assets (excluding reserves) in foreign
securities, including ADRs.
 
                                       22
<PAGE>   23
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
 
     This section describes some of the types of securities a Series may hold in
its portfolio and the various kinds of investment practices that may be used in
day-to-day portfolio management. A Series may invest in the following securities
or engage in the following practices to the extent that such securities and
practices are consistent with the Series' investment objective(s) and policies
described herein. Each Series' investment program is subject to further
restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
     BORROWING AND LENDING. A Series may borrow money from banks for temporary
or emergency purposes in amounts up to 25% of its total assets. To secure
borrowings a Series may mortgage or pledge securities in amounts up to 15% of
its net assets. As a fundamental policy, a Series will not lend securities or
other assets if, as a result, more than 25% of its total assets would be lent to
other parties.
 
     CASH POSITION. A Series may hold a certain portion of its assets in
repurchase agreements and money market securities rated in one of the two
highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating
organization, maturing in one year or less. For temporary, defensive purposes, a
Series may invest without limitation in such securities. This reserve position
provides flexibility in meeting redemptions, expenses, and the timing of new
investments, and serves as a short-term defense during periods of unusual market
volatility.
 
     COMMON AND PREFERRED STOCKS. Stocks represent shares of ownership in a
company. Generally, preferred stock has a specified dividend and ranks after
bonds and before common stocks in its claim on income for dividend payments and
on assets should the company be liquidated. After other claims are satisfied,
common stockholders participate in company profits on a pro rata basis; profits
may be paid out in dividends or reinvested in the company to help it grow.
Increases and decreases in earnings are usually reflected in a company's stock
price, so common stocks generally have the greatest appreciation and
depreciation potential of all corporate securities. While most preferred stocks
pay a dividend, a Series may purchase preferred stock where the issuer has
omitted, or is in danger of omitting, payment of its dividend. Such investments
would be made primarily for their capital appreciation potential. Although
common and preferred stocks have a history of long-term growth in value, their
prices tend to fluctuate in the short term, particularly those of smaller
companies.
 
     CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES AND WARRANTS. A Series may invest in debt or
preferred equity securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity
securities. Traditionally, convertible securities have paid dividends or
interest at rates higher than common stocks but lower than non-convertible
securities. They generally participate in the appreciation or depreciation of
the underlying stock into which they are convertible, but to a lesser degree. In
recent years, convertibles have been developed which combine higher or lower
current income with options and other features. Warrants are options to buy a
stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price any time during the
life of the warrants (generally, two or more years).
 
     FIXED INCOME SECURITIES. A Series may invest in fixed income securities of
companies which meet the investment criteria for the Series. The price of fixed
income securities fluctuates with changes in interest rates, generally rising
when interest rates fall and falling when interest rates rise. Prices of
longer-term securities generally increase or decrease more sharply than those of
shorter-term securities in response to interest rate changes.
 
     FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A Series will normally conduct its foreign
currency exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash), basis at the spot
rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering
into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies. A Series will
generally not enter into a forward contract with a term of greater than one
year.
 
     There are certain markets where it is not possible to engage in effective
foreign currency hedging. This may be true, for example, for the currencies of
various countries where the foreign exchange markets are not sufficiently
developed to permit hedging activity to take place.
 
     FOREIGN SECURITIES. A Series may invest in foreign securities. These
include non-dollar denominated securities traded principally outside the U.S.
and dollar denominated securities traded in the U.S. (such as ADRs). Such
investments increase a Series' diversification and may enhance return, but they
also involve some special risks such as exposure to potentially adverse local
political and economic developments; nationalization and exchange controls;
potentially lower liquidity and higher volatility; possible problems arising
from accounting, disclosure, settlement, and regulatory practices that differ
from U.S. standards; and the chance that fluctuations in foreign exchange rates
will decrease the investment's value (favorable changes can increase its value).
 
                                       23
<PAGE>   24
 
     FUTURES AND OPTIONS. Futures are often used to manage risk, because they
enable the investor to buy or sell an asset in the future at an agreed upon
price. Options give the investor the right, but not the obligation, to buy or
sell an asset at a predetermined price in the future. A Series may buy and sell
futures contracts (and options on such contracts) to manage its exposure to
changes in securities prices and foreign currencies and as an efficient means of
adjusting overall exposure to certain markets. Subject to certain limits
described in the Statement of Additional Information, a Series may purchase or
sell call and put options on securities, financial indices, and foreign
currencies, and may invest in futures contracts on foreign currencies and
financial indices, including interest rates or an index of U.S. Government
securities, foreign government securities or equity or fixed income securities.
 
     Futures contracts and options may not always be successful hedges; their
prices can be highly volatile; using them could lower a Series' total return;
and the potential loss from the use of futures can exceed the Series' initial
investment in such contracts. These instruments may also be used for non-hedging
purposes such as increasing a Series' income.
 
     The Series' use of commodity futures and commodity options trading should
not be viewed as providing a vehicle for shareholder participation in a
commodity pool. Rather, in accordance with regulations adopted by the CFTC, a
Series will employ such techniques only for (1) hedging purposes, or (2)
otherwise, to the extent that aggregate initial margin and required premiums do
not exceed 5 percent of the Series' net assets.
 
     ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Series may invest up to 15% of its net assets
(10% in the case of the JNL/Alger Growth Series and the PPM America/JNL Money
Market Series) in securities that are considered illiquid. Illiquid investments
include repurchase agreements not terminable within seven days, securities for
which market quotations are not readily available and certain restricted
securities. Illiquid investments may be difficult to sell promptly at an
acceptable price. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may
be costly to a Series. Certain restricted securities may be determined to be
liquid in accordance with guidelines adopted by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
 
     HIGH YIELD BONDS. A Series may invest its assets in fixed income securities
offering high current income that are in the lower rating categories of
recognized rating agencies or are non-rated. These lower-rated fixed income
securities are considered on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect
to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of
the obligation and generally will involve more credit risk than securities in
the higher rating categories.
 
     DEBT HOLDINGS BY RATINGS. During the period ended December 31, 1996, the
percentage of the assets of the following Series invested in debt securities in
each of the rating categories of S&P and the debt securities not rated by an
established rating service, determined on a dollar weighted average, were:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            PERCENTAGE OF NET ASSETS
                       ----------------------------------
                        PPM AMERICA/    SALOMON BROTHERS/
                       JNL HIGH YIELD      JNL GLOBAL
     S&P RATING         BOND SERIES        BOND SERIES
     ----------        --------------   -----------------
<S>                    <C>              <C>
AAA..................          0%             28.05%
AA...................          0%              1.78%
A....................          0%              0.45%
BBB..................       2.05%              4.09%
BB...................      28.43%              6.83%
B....................      66.23%             29.51%
CCC..................       0.81%              2.84%
CC...................          0%                 0%
C....................          0%                 0%
D....................          0%                 0%
Not Rated............       2.48%             26.45%
</TABLE>
 
     HYBRID INSTRUMENTS. These instruments can combine the characteristics of
securities, futures and options. For example, the principal amount, redemption
or conversion terms of a security could be related to the market price of some
commodity, currency or securities index. Such securities may bear interest or
pay dividends at below market (or even relatively nominal) rates. Under certain
conditions, the redemption value of such an investment could be zero. Hybrids
can have volatile prices and limited liquidity and their use by a Series may not
be successful.
 
     MORTGAGE- AND ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES. A Series may invest in mortgage- and
asset-backed securities. These securities are subject to prepayment risk, that
is, the possibility that prepayments on the underlying mortgages or other loans
will cause the principal and interest on the mortgage- and asset-backed
securities to be paid prior to their stated maturities. A sub-adviser will
consider estimated prepayment rates in calculating the average weighted
maturities of the Series. Unscheduled prepayments are more likely to accelerate
during periods of declining long-term interest rates. In the event of a
prepayment during a period of declining interest rates, a Series may be required
to invest the unanticipated proceeds at a lower interest rate. Prepayments
during such periods will also limit a Series' ability to participate in as large
a market gain as may be experienced with a comparable security not subject to
prepayment.
 
     The Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series may purchase stripped
mortgage-backed securities, which may be considered derivative mortgage-backed
securities, which may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S.
Government or by private entities. Stripped
 
                                       24
<PAGE>   25
 
mortgage-backed securities have greater volatility than other types of
mortgage-backed securities. Stripped mortgage-backed securities are structured
with two or more classes that receive different proportions of the interest and
principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. In the most extreme case,
one class will receive all of the interest, while the other class will receive
all of the principal. The yield to maturity of such mortgage backed securities
that are purchased at a substantial discount or premium are extremely sensitive
to changes in interest rates as well as to the rate of principal payments
(including prepayments) on the related underlying mortgage assets.
 
     MORTGAGE DOLLAR ROLLS. Certain Series may enter into mortgage "dollar
rolls" in which a Series sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in the
current month and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar
(same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified future date. During
the roll period, a Series foregoes principal and interest paid on the
mortgage-backed securities. A Series is compensated by the interest earned on
the cash proceeds of the initial sale and from negotiated fees paid by brokers
offered as an inducement to the Series to "roll over" its purchase commitments.
A Series may only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a specific type
of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position which matures on
or before the forward settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. At the
time a Series enters into a mortgage "dollar roll", it will establish a
segregated account with its custodian bank in which it will maintain cash, U.S.
Government securities or other liquid high grade debt obligations equal in value
to its obligations in respect of dollar rolls, and accordingly, such dollar
rolls will not be considered borrowings. Mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk
that the market value of the securities the Series is obligated to repurchase
under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. In the event the
buyer of securities under a mortgage dollar roll files for bankruptcy or becomes
insolvent, the Series' use of proceeds of the dollar roll may be restricted
pending a determination by the other party, or its trustee or receiver, whether
to enforce the Series' obligation to repurchase the securities.
 
     COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS). A Series may invest in CMOs.
CMOs are bonds that are collateralized by whole loan mortgages or mortgage pass-
through securities. In recent years, new types of CMO structures have evolved.
These include floating rate CMOs, planned amortization classes, accrual bonds,
and CMO residuals. Under certain of these new structures, given classes of CMOs
have priority over others with respect to the receipt of prepayments on the
mortgages. Therefore, depending on the type of CMOs in which the Series invests,
the investment may be subject to a greater or lesser risk of prepayment than
other types of mortgage-related securities.
 
     The primary risk of any mortgage security is the uncertainty of the timing
of cash flows. For CMOs, the primary risk results from the rate of prepayments
on the underlying mortgages serving as collateral. An increase or decrease in
prepayment rates (resulting primarily from a decrease or increase in mortgage
interest rates) will affect the yield, average life, and price of CMOs. The
prices of certain CMOs, depending on their structure and the rate of
prepayments, can be volatile. Some CMOs may also not be as liquid as other
securities.
 
     REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS ("REITS"). The REITs in which a Series may
invest include equity REITs, which own real estate properties, and mortgage
REITs, which make construction, development and long-term mortgage loans. The
value of an equity REIT may be affected by changes in the value of the
underlying property, while a mortgage REIT may be affected by the quality of the
credit extended. The performance of both types of REITs depends upon conditions
in the real estate industry, management skills and the amount of cash flow. The
risks associated with REITs include defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation,
failure to qualify as a "pass-through" entity under the Federal tax law, failure
to qualify as an exempt entity under the 1940 Act, and the fact that REITs are
not diversified.
 
     PORTFOLIO TURNOVER. To a limited extent, a Series may engage in short-term
transactions if such transactions further its investment objective. A Series may
sell one security and simultaneously purchase another of comparable quality or
simultaneously purchase and sell the same security to take advantage of
short-term differentials in bond yields or otherwise purchase individual
securities in anticipation of relatively short-term price gains. The rate of
portfolio turnover will not be a determining factor in the purchase and sale of
such securities. However, certain tax rules may restrict the Series' ability to
sell securities in some circumstances when the security has been held for less
than three months. Increased portfolio turnover necessarily results in
correspondingly higher costs including brokerage commissions, dealer mark-ups
and other transaction costs on the sale of securities and reinvestment in other
securities, and may result in the acceleration of taxable gains.
 
     REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS AND REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. A Series may
invest in repurchase or reverse repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement
involves the purchase of a security by a Series and a simultaneous agreement
(generally by a bank or dealer) to repurchase that security from the Series at a
specified price and date or upon demand. This technique offers a method of
 
                                       25
<PAGE>   26
 
earning income on idle cash. The repurchase agreement is effectively secured by
the value of the underlying security. A risk associated with repurchase
agreements is the failure of the seller to repurchase the securities as agreed,
which may cause a Series to suffer a loss if the market value of such securities
declines before they can be liquidated on the open market. In the event of
bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, a Series may encounter delays and incur
costs in liquidating the underlying security.
 
     When a Series invests in a reverse repurchase agreement, it sells a
portfolio security to another party, such as a bank or a broker-dealer, in
return for cash, and agrees to buy the security back at a future date and price.
Reverse repurchase agreements may be used to provide cash to satisfy unusually
heavy redemption requests or for other temporary or emergency purposes without
the necessity of selling portfolio securities or to earn additional income on
portfolio securities, such as Treasury bills and notes.
 
     SHORT SALES. Each Series may sell securities "short against the box." While
a short sale is the sale of a security the Series does not own, it is "against
the box" if at all times when the short position is open the Series owns an
equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable
without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the
securities sold short.
 
     U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES AND CUSTODIAL RECEIPTS. Obligations issued or
guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities include Treasury bills, notes and bonds and Government
National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") certificates which are supported by the
full faith and credit of the United States; others, such as those of the Federal
Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the
Treasury; others, such as those of the Federal National Mortgage Association
("FNMA"), are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to
purchase the agency's obligations; and still others, such as those of the
Student Loan Marketing Association, are supported only by the credit of the
instrumentality. No assurance can be given that the U.S. Government will provide
financial support to U.S. Government agencies or instrumentalities in the
future, other than as set forth above, since it is not obligated to do so by
law.
 
     WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES. A Series may purchase securities on a when-issued,
delayed delivery or forward commitment basis. Actual payment for and delivery of
such securities does not take place until some time in the future -- i.e.,
beyond normal settlement. The Series does not earn interest on such securities
until settlement and bears the risk of market value fluctuations during the
period between the purchase and settlement dates. The series segregate and
maintain at all times cash, cash equivalents, or other high quality liquid debt
securities in an amount at least equal to the amount of outstanding commitments
for when-issued securities.
 
     ZERO COUPON AND PAY-IN-KIND BONDS. A Series may invest up to 10% of its
assets in zero coupon bonds or strips. Zero coupon bonds do not make regular
interest payments; rather, they are sold at a discount from face value.
Principal and accreted discount (representing interest accrued but not paid) are
paid at maturity. Strips are debt securities that are stripped of their interest
after the securities are issued, but otherwise are comparable to zero coupon
bonds. The market value of strips and zero coupon bonds generally fluctuates in
response to changes in interest rates to a greater degree than interest-paying
securities of comparable term and quality. A Series may also purchase
pay-in-kind bonds. Pay-in-kind bonds pay all or a portion of their interest in
the form of debt or equity securities.
 
     Zero coupon and pay-in-kind bonds tend to be subject to greater price
fluctuations in response to changes in interest rates than are ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. The value of zero
coupon securities appreciates more during periods of declining interest rates
and depreciates more during periods of rising interest rates than ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. Zero coupon securities
and pay-in-kind bonds may be issued by a wide variety of corporate and
governmental issuers.
 
     Current federal income tax law requires the holder of a zero coupon
security, certain pay-in-kind bonds and certain other securities acquired at a
discount (such as Brady Bonds) to accrue income with respect to these securities
prior to the receipt of cash payments. Accordingly, to avoid liability for
federal income and excise taxes, a Series may be required to distribute income
accrued with respect to these securities and may have to dispose of portfolio
securities under disadvantageous circumstances in order to generate cash to
satisfy these distribution requirements.
 
INVESTMENT RISKS
 
  FOREIGN SECURITIES
 
     Investments in foreign securities, including those of foreign governments,
involve risks that are different in some respects from investments in securities
of U.S. issuers, such as the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currencies
in which they are denominated, a heightened risk of adverse political and
economic developments and, with respect to certain countries, the possibility of
expropriation, nationalization or confiscatory taxation or limitations on the
removal of funds or other assets of a Series. Securities of some foreign issuers
in many cases are less
 
                                       26
<PAGE>   27
 
liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. There
also may be less publicly available information about foreign issuers than
domestic issuers, and foreign issuers generally are not subject to the uniform
accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and
requirements applicable to domestic issuers. Certain markets may require payment
for securities before delivery. A Series may have limited legal recourse against
the issuer in the event of a default on a debt instrument. Delays may be
encountered in settling securities transactions in certain foreign markets and a
Series will incur costs in converting foreign currencies into U.S. dollars. Bank
custody charges are generally higher for foreign securities. The JNL Global
Equities, Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond, and T. Rowe Price/JNL International
Equity Investment Series are particularly susceptible to such risks. ADRs do not
involve the same direct currency and liquidity risks as foreign securities.
 
     The considerations noted above may be intensified in the case of
investments in developing countries or countries with limited or developing
capital markets. In particular, developing countries may have relatively
unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries, and securities
markets that trade a small number of securities. Securities of issuers located
in developing countries may have limited marketability and may be subject to
more abrupt or erratic price fluctuations.
 
     At times, securities held by a Series may be listed on foreign exchanges or
traded in foreign markets which are open on days (such as Saturday) when a
Series does not compute its price or accept orders for the purchase, redemption
or exchange of its shares. As a result, the net asset value of a Series may be
significantly affected by trading on days when shareholders cannot make
transactions.
 
     The share price of a Series that invests in foreign securities will reflect
the movements of both the prices of the portfolio securities and the currencies
in which such securities are denominated. A Series' foreign investments may
cause changes in a Series' share price that have a low correlation with movement
in the U.S. markets. Because most of the foreign securities in which a Series
invests will be denominated in foreign currencies, or otherwise will have values
that depend on the performance of foreign currencies relative to the U.S.
dollar, the relative strength of the U.S. dollar may be an important factor in
the performance of a Series, depending on the extent of the Series' foreign
investments.
 
     A Series may employ certain strategies in order to manage exchange rate
risks. For example, a Series may hedge some or all of its investments
denominated in or exposed to a foreign currency against a decline in the value
of that currency. A Series may enter into contracts to sell that foreign
currency for U. S. dollars (not exceeding the value of a Series' assets
denominated in or exposed to that currency) or by participating in options or
futures contracts with respect to such currency ("position hedge"). A Series
could also hedge that position by selling a second currency, which is expected
to perform similarly to the currency in which portfolio investments are
denominated, for U.S. dollars ("proxy hedge"). A Series may also enter into a
forward contract to sell the currency in which the security is denominated for a
second currency that is expected to perform better relative to the U.S. dollar
if the sub-adviser believes there is a reasonable degree of correlation between
movements in the two currencies ("cross hedge"). In addition, when a Series
anticipates purchasing securities denominated in or exposed to a particular
currency, the Series may enter into a forward contract to purchase or sell such
currency in exchange for the dollar or another currency ("anticipatory hedge").
 
     These strategies minimize the effect of currency appreciation as well as
depreciation, but do not protect against a decline in the underlying value of
the hedged security. In addition, such strategies may reduce or eliminate the
opportunity to profit from increases in the value of the original currency and
may adversely impact a Series' performance if the sub-adviser's projection of
future exchange rates is inaccurate.
 
  FUTURES, OPTIONS AND OTHER DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
     The use of futures, options, forward contracts, and swaps ("derivative
instruments") exposes a Series to additional investment risks and transaction
costs. If a sub-adviser seeks to protect a Series against potential adverse
movements in the securities, foreign currency or interest rate markets using
these instruments, and such markets do not move in a direction adverse to the
Series, that Series could be left in a less favorable position than if such
strategies had not been used. Risks inherent in the use of futures, options,
forward contracts and swaps include (1) the risk that interest rates, securities
prices and currency markets will not move in the directions anticipated; (2)
imperfect correlation between the price of derivative instruments and movements
in the prices of the securities, interest rates or currencies being hedged; (3)
the fact that skills needed to use these strategies are different from those
needed to select portfolio securities; (4) the possible absence of a liquid
secondary market for any particular instrument at any time; and (5) the possible
need to defer closing out certain hedged positions to avoid adverse tax
consequences.
 
  HIGH YIELD/HIGH RISK BONDS
 
     Lower rated bonds involve a higher degree of credit risk, which is the risk
that the issuer will not make interest
 
                                       27
<PAGE>   28
 
or principal payments when due. In the event of an unanticipated default, a
Series would experience a reduction in its income, a decline in the market value
of the securities so affected and a decline in the value of its shares. More
careful analysis of the financial condition of issuers of lower rated securities
is therefore necessary. During an economic downturn or substantial period of
rising interest rates, highly leveraged issuers may experience financial stress
which could adversely affect their ability to service principal and interest
payment obligations, to meet projected business goals and to obtain additional
financing.
 
     The market prices of lower rated securities are generally less sensitive to
interest rate changes than higher rated investments, but more sensitive to
adverse economic or political changes, or individual developments specific to
the issuer. Periods of economic or political uncertainty and change can be
expected to result in volatility of prices of these securities. Since the last
major economic recession, there has been a substantial increase in the use of
high-yield debt securities to fund highly leveraged corporate acquisitions and
restructurings, so past experience with high-yield securities in a prolonged
economic downturn may not provide an accurate indication of future performance
during such periods. Lower rated securities also may have less liquid markets
than higher rated securities, and their liquidity as well as their value may be
more severely affected by adverse economic conditions. Many high-yield bonds do
not trade frequently. When they do trade, their price may be substantially
higher or lower than had been expected. A lack of liquidity also means that
judgment may play a bigger role in valuing the securities. Adverse publicity and
investor perceptions as well as new or proposed laws may also have a greater
negative impact on the market for lower rated bonds.
 
     A Series may also invest in unrated debt securities of foreign and domestic
issuers. Unrated debt, while not necessarily of lower quality than rated
securities, may not have as broad a market. Sovereign debt of foreign
governments is generally rated by country, because these ratings do not take
into account individual factors relevant to each issue and may not be updated
regularly. Because of the size and perceived demand of the issue, among other
factors, certain municipalities may not incur the costs of obtaining a rating.
The sub-adviser will analyze the credit-worthiness of the issuer, as well as any
financial institution or other party responsible for payments on the security,
in determining whether to purchase unrated municipal bonds. (See Appendix A for
a description of bond rating categories).
 
  HIGH YIELD FOREIGN SOVEREIGN DEBT SECURITIES
 
     Investing in fixed and floating rate high yield foreign sovereign debt
securities will expose the Series investing in such securities to the direct or
indirect consequences of political, social or economic changes in the countries
that issue the securities. (See "Foreign Securities"). The ability and
willingness of sovereign obligors in developing and emerging market countries or
the governmental authorities that control repayment of their external debt to
pay principal and interest on such debt when due may depend on general economic
and political conditions within the relevant country. Countries such as those in
which a Series may invest have historically experienced, and may continue to
experience, high rates of inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate trade
difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment. Many of these countries are
also characterized by political uncertainty or instability. Additional factors
which may influence the ability or willingness to service debt include, but are
not limited to, a country's cash flow situation, the availability of sufficient
foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of its debt
service burden to the economy as a whole, and its government's policy towards
the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other international
agencies.
 
  HYBRID INSTRUMENTS
 
     The risks of investing in hybrid instruments reflect a combination of the
risks of investing in securities, options, futures and currencies, including
volatility and lack of liquidity. Reference is made to the discussion of
futures, options, and forward contracts herein for a discussion of these risks.
Further, the prices of the hybrid instrument and the related commodity or
currency may not move in the same direction or at the same time. Hybrid
instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or
even relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear
interest at above market rates but bear an increased risk of principal loss. In
addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid instruments could take place
in an over-the-counter or in a private transaction between the Series and the
seller of the hybrid instrument, the creditworthiness of the counter-party to
the transaction would be a risk factor which the Series would have to consider.
Hybrid instruments also may not be subject to regulation of the CFTC, which
generally regulates the trading of commodity futures by U.S. persons, the SEC,
which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any
other governmental regulatory authority.
 
                                       28
<PAGE>   29
 
  MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
 
     In addition to the usual risks associated with income investing, the value
of municipal obligations can be affected by changes in the actual or perceived
credit quality of municipal obligations held by a Series. The credit quality of
a municipal obligation can be affected by, among other factors, the financial
condition of the issuer or guarantor, the issuer's future borrowing plans and
sources of revenue, the economic feasibility of the revenue bond project or
general borrowing purpose, political or economic developments in the region
where the security is issued, and the liquidity of the security. Because
municipal obligations are generally traded over-the-counter, the liquidity of a
particular issue often depends on the willingness of dealers to make a market in
the security. The liquidity of some municipal issues may be enhanced by demand
features, which enable a Series to demand payment on short notice from the
issuer or a financial intermediary.
 
  WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES
 
     The price of such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is
fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment
take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date occurs within 90 days
of the purchase for when-issued securities, but may be substantially longer for
forward commitments. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by the Series to the issuer and no interest accrues to the
Series. The purchase of these securities will result in a loss if their value
declines prior to the settlement date. This could occur, for example, if
interest rates increase prior to settlement. The longer the period between
purchase and settlement, the greater the risks. At the time the Series makes the
commitment to purchase these securities, it will record the transaction and
reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset value. The Series
will segregate for these securities by maintaining cash and/or liquid debt
securities with its custodian bank equal in value to commitments for them during
the time between the purchase and the settlement. Therefore, the longer this
period, the longer the period during which alternative investment options are
not available to the Series (to the extent of the securities used for cover).
Such securities either will mature or, if necessary, be sold on or before the
settlement date.
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   30
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
     Under Massachusetts law and the Trust's Declaration of Trust and By-Laws,
the management of the business and affairs of the Trust is the responsibility of
the Trustees.
 
     JNFSI, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan 48911, is the investment
adviser of each Series and provides each Series with professional investment
supervision and management. JNFSI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Jackson
National Life Insurance Company, which is in turn wholly owned by Prudential
Corporation plc, the largest life insurance company in the United Kingdom. JNFSI
has been providing investment advisory services to management investment
companies since 1992 and as of December 31, 1996, had approximately $1 billion
under management.
 
     JNFSI provides preparation of financial statements, tax services, and
regulatory reports to the Trust. JNFSI also selects, contracts with and
compensates sub-advisers to manage the investment and reinvestment of the
assets of the Series of the Trust. JNFSI monitors the compliance of such
sub-advisers with the investment objectives and related policies of each Series
and reviews the performance of such sub-advisers and reports periodically on
such performance to the Trustees of the Trust.
 
     As compensation for its services, JNFSI receives a fee from the Trust
computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as an
annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of the Series. The
fees, which are accrued daily and payable monthly, are calculated on the basis
of the average of all valuations of net assets of each Series made at the close
of business on each business day of the Trust during the period for which such
fees are paid through the date of calculation. Once the average net assets of a
Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is reduced with respect to such excess.
The following is a schedule of the fees each Series currently is obligated to
pay JNFSI.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $50 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M -- MILLION)                                                 $50 M    $150 M    $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- ---------------                                                 -----    ------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%    1.00%       .95%       .90%      .90%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%    .975%      .975%       .95%      .90%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series*...................................     .90%     .90%       .85%       .80%      .80%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series**............................     .90%     .90%       .85%       .80%      .80%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series***..........................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%     .60%      .575%       .55%     .525%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%     .70%       .65%       .60%      .55%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .80%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%    1.05%      1.00%       .95%      .90%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .90%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
  * Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was .90%,
    .85%, .80%, .75%, and .70%, respectively.
 
 ** Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series was
    .75%, .70%, .675%, .65% and .625%, respectively.
 
*** Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was
    .90%, .80%, .75%, .70% and .65%, respectively.
 
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISERS
     The organizations described below act as sub-advisers to the Trust and
certain of its Series pursuant to Sub-Advisory Agreements with JNFSI. Under the
Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-advisers manage the investment and reinvestment
of the assets of the respective Series for which they are responsible. Each of
the sub-advisers discharges its responsibilities subject to the policies of the
Trustees and the oversight and supervision of JNFSI, which pays the
sub-advisers' fees.
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   31
 
     Fred Alger Management, Inc., ("Alger Management") which is located at 75
Maiden Lane, New York,
New York 10038, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Alger Growth Series. Alger
Management is generally engaged in the business of rendering investment advisory
services to institutions and, to a lesser extent, individuals. Alger Management
has been engaged in the business of rendering investment advisory services since
1964 and, as of December 31, 1996, had approximately $7.1 billion under
management, $5.2 billion in mutual fund accounts and $1.9 billion in other
advisory accounts. Alger Management is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fred Alger &
Company, Inc. which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alger Associates,
Inc., a financial services holding company. Fred M. Alger III and his brother,
David D. Alger are majority shareholders of Alger Associates, Inc. and may be
deemed to control that company and its subsidiaries.
 
     Janus Capital Corporation ("Janus Capital"), a Colorado corporation with
principal offices at 100 Fillmore Street, Denver, Colorado 80206, serves as
sub-adviser to the JNL Capital Growth Series, the JNL Aggressive Growth Series
and the JNL Global Equities Series. Janus Capital is an investment adviser with
approximately $50 billion in assets under management. Kansas City Southern
Industries, Inc. ("KCSI") owns approximately 83% of the outstanding voting stock
of Janus Capital, most of which it acquired in 1984. KCSI is a publicly-traded
holding company whose primary subsidiaries are engaged in transportation and
financial services. Thomas H. Bailey, President and Chairman of the Board of
Janus Capital, owns approximately 12% of its voting stock and, by agreement with
KCSI, selects a majority of Janus Capital's Board.
 
     PPM America, Inc. ("PPM"), which is located at 225 West Wacker Drive,
Chicago, Illinois 60606, serves as sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL Balanced
Series*, the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL
Money Market Series. PPM, an affiliate of JNFSI, is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Prudential Portfolio Managers Ltd., ("PPM Ltd.") an investment management
company engaged in global money management, which is in turn wholly owned by
Prudential Corporation plc. PPM Ltd. and its subsidiaries manage over $120
billion in various currencies and markets. PPM currently manages over $26
billion of Jackson National Life Insurance Company assets. Additionally, PPM
manages assets of over $5.7 billion for other affiliated companies and over $878
million for non-affiliated entities.
 
     Putnam Investment Management, Inc. ("Putnam"), located at One Post Office
Square, Boston, Massachusetts 02109, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Putnam
Growth Series* and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series*. Putnam has been managing
mutual funds since 1937. Putnam and its affiliates had approximately $173
billion in assets under management as of December 31, 1996. Putnam is a
subsidiary of Putnam Investment, Inc., which is wholly owned by Marsh & McLennan
Companies, Inc., a publicly-owned holding company whose principal businesses are
international insurance and reinsurance brokerage, employee benefit consulting
and investment management.
 
     Rowe Price-Fleming International, Inc. ("Price-Fleming"), located at 100
East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T.
Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series. Price-Fleming was founded
in 1979 as a joint venture between T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and Robert
Fleming Holdings Limited. Price-Fleming is one of America's largest
international mutual fund asset managers with approximately $18 billion under
management in its offices in Baltimore, London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore.
 
     Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc ("SBAM") serves as sub-adviser to the
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S.
Government & Quality Bond Series. SBAM is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary
of Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. which is, in turn, wholly owned by
Salomon Inc. ("SI"). SBAM was incorporated in 1987, and, together with
affiliates in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and Hong Kong, SBAM provides a broad
range of fixed income and equity investment advisory services to various
individual and institutional clients located throughout the world and serves as
sub-advisor to various investment companies. In providing such investment
advisory services, SBAM has access to SI's more than 400 economists, mortgage
bond, sovereign and equity analysts. As of December 31, 1996, SBAM and its
worldwide investment affiliates managed approximately $17.8 billion. SBAM's
business offices are located at 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048.
 
     In connection with SBAM's service as sub-adviser to the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series, SBAM Limited, whose business address is
Victoria Plaza, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W OSB, England, provides
certain sub-advisory services to SBAM relating to currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the benefit of the
Series. SBAM Limited is compensated by SBAM at no additional expense to the
Trust. Like SBAM, SBAM Limited is an indirect,
 
- ---------------
 
    *Prior to May 1, 1997, Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. served as
sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and the JNL/Putnam Growth
Series, and PPM served as sub-adviser to the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series.
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   32
 
wholly-owned subsidiary of Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. SBAM Limited is
a member of the Investment Management Regulatory Organization Limited in the
United Kingdom and is registered as an investment adviser in the United States
pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
 
     T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("T. Rowe"), located at 100 East Pratt
Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series and the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth
Series. T. Rowe was founded in 1937 by the late Thomas Rowe Price, Jr. T. Rowe
and its affiliates manage over $95 billion for approximately 4.5 million
individual and institutional investor accounts, including limited and real
estate partnerships and other mutual funds.
 
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
 
     The following individuals are primarily responsible for the day-to-day
management of the particular Series as indicated below.
 
JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
     Helen Young Hayes is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Global Equities Series. Ms. Hayes joined Janus Capital in 1987. She holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
     James P. Goff is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Capital Growth Series. Mr. Goff joined Janus Capital in 1988. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
     Warren B. Lammert is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Aggressive Growth Series. Mr. Lammert joined Janus Capital in 1987. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and a Master of Science in
Economic History from the London School of Economics. He is a Chartered
Financial Analyst.
 
JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
 
     David D. Alger, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alger
Management, is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the
JNL/Alger Growth Series. He has been employed by Alger Management as Executive
Vice President and Director of Research since 1971 and he serves as portfolio
manager for other mutual funds and investment accounts managed by Alger
Management. Also participating in the management of the Series are Ronald
Tartaro and Seilai Khoo. Mr. Tartaro has been employed by Alger Management
since 1990 and he serves as a senior research analyst. Prior to 1990, he was a
member of the technical staff at AT&T Bell Laboratories. Ms. Khoo has been
employed by Alger Management since 1989 and she serves as a senior research
analyst.
 
JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES
 
     Carol C. McMullen has responsibility for the day-to-day management of the
JNL/Putnam Growth Series. Ms. McMullen has been a Managing Director of Putnam
since 1995. Prior to joining Putnam, Ms. McMullen was Senior Vice President of
Baring Asset Management. Ms. McMullen has had responsibility for the day-to-day
management of the JNL/Putnam Growth Series since May 1, 1997.
 
JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES
 
     Anthony I. Kreisel a Managing Director of Putnam, has responsibility for
the day-to-day management of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series. Mr. Kreisel has
been an investment professional at Putnam since 1986. Mr. Kreisel has had
responsibility for the day-to-day management of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity
Series since May 1, 1997.
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
 
     In its capacity as sub-adviser, PPM supervises and manages the investment
portfolios of the PPM America/ JNL Balanced Series, the PPM America/JNL High
Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series and directs the
purchase and sale of each Series' investment securities. PPM utilizes teams of
investment professionals acting together to manage the assets of the Series. The
teams meet regularly to review portfolio holdings and to discuss purchase and
sale activity. The teams adjust holdings in the portfolios as they deem
appropriate in the pursuit of the Series' investment objectives. PPM has
supervised and managed the investment portfolio of the PPM America/JNL Balanced
Series since May 1, 1997, and has supervised and managed the investment
portfolios of the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL
Money Market Series since the commencement of operations of each Series.
 
                                       32
<PAGE>   33
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
 
     Steven Guterman is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series and the mortgage-
backed securities and U.S. Government securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Guterman co-manages the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series with Roger Lavan.
 
     Mr. Guterman, who joined SBAM in 1990, is a Managing Director of Salomon
Brothers Inc and a Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager of SBAM,
responsible for SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios which
invest primarily in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government issues. Mr.
Guterman also serves as portfolio manager for two offshore mortgage funds and a
number of institutional clients. Mr. Guterman joined Salomon Brothers Inc in
1983, working initially in the mortgage research group where he became a
Research Director and later traded derivative mortgage-backed securities.
 
     Mr. Lavan joined SBAM in 1990 and is a Portfolio Manager and Quantitative
Fixed Income Analyst, responsible for working for senior portfolio managers to
monitor and analyze market relationships and identify and implement relative
value transactions in SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios
which invest in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government securities. Prior
to joining SBAM, Mr. Lavan spent four years analyzing portfolios for Salomon
Brothers Inc's Fixed Income Sales Group and Product Support Divisions.
 
     Peter J. Wilby is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the high yield and emerging market debt securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Beth Semmel assists Mr. Wilby in the day-to-day
management of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Wilby, who joined
SBAM in 1989, is a Managing Director of Salomon Brothers Inc and SBAM and Senior
Portfolio Manager of SBAM, responsible for investment company and institutional
portfolios which invest in high yield non-U.S. and U.S. corporate debt
securities and high yield foreign sovereign debt securities. From 1984 to 1989,
Mr. Wilby was employed by Prudential Capital Management Group ("Prudential")
where he served as Director of Prudential's credit research unit and as a
corporate and sovereign credit analyst with Prudential. Mr. Wilby also managed
high yield bonds and leveraged equities in the mutual funds and institutional
portfolios at Prudential. Ms. Semmel is a Director and Portfolio Manager of SBAM
and a Director of Salomon Brothers Inc. Ms. Semmel joined SBAM in May of 1993,
where she manages high yield portfolios. Prior to joining SBAM, Ms. Semmel spent
four years as a high yield bond analyst at Morgan Stanley Asset Management.
 
     David J. Scott is primarily responsible for currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Prior to joining SBAM Limited in April 1994,
Mr. Scott worked for four years at JP Morgan Investment Management ("JP Morgan")
where he was responsible for global and non-dollar portfolios for clients
including departments of various governments, pension funds and insurance
companies. Before joining JP Morgan, Mr. Scott worked for three years at Mercury
Asset Management where he was responsible for captive insurance portfolios and
products.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
     Robert W. Smith is responsible for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series. Mr. Smith is a Vice President and Equity
Portfolio Manager for T. Rowe and Price-Fleming. He is also responsible for the
North American component of other investment company and institutional client
portfolios. Prior to joining T. Rowe in 1992, Mr. Smith was employed as an
Investment Analyst for Massachusetts Financial Services. He earned a BS (finance
and economics) from the University of Delaware and an MBA (finance) from the
Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, University of Virginia. Mr.
Smith has had responsibility for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series since February 21, 1997.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series has an
investment advisory group that has day-to-day responsibility for managing the
Series and developing and executing the Series' investment program. The Series'
advisory group is composed of the following members: Martin G. Wade, Christopher
D. Alderson, Peter B. Askew, Mark J.T. Edward, John R. Ford, James B.M. Seddon,
Benedict R.F. Thomas, and David J.J. Warren.
 
     Martin Wade joined Price-Fleming in 1979 and has 26 years of experience
with the Fleming Group in research, client service, and investment management.
(Fleming Group includes Robert Fleming and/or Jardine
 
                                       33
<PAGE>   34
 
Fleming Group Limited). Christopher Alderson joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and
has nine years of experience with the Fleming Group in research and portfolio
management. Peter Askew joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has 20 years of
experience managing multi-currency fixed income portfolios. Mark Edwards joined
Price-Fleming in 1986 and has 14 years of experience in financial analysis. John
Ford joined Price-Fleming in 1982 and has 15 years of experience with the
Fleming Group in research and portfolio management. James Seddon joined
Price-Fleming in 1987 and has eight years of experience in investment
management. Benedict Thomas joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has six years of
portfolio management experience. David Warren joined Price-Fleming in 1984 and
has 15 years of experience in equity research, fixed income research and
portfolio management.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series has an Investment Advisory
Committee composed of the following members: Brian W. Berghuis, Chairman, James
A.C. Kennedy, and John F. Wakeman. The Committee Chairman has day to day
responsibility for managing the Series and works with the Committee in
developing and executing the Series' investment program. Mr. Berghuis has been
managing investments since joining T. Rowe in 1985.
 
SUB-ADVISORY ARRANGEMENTS
 
     Under the terms of each of the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-adviser
manages the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the assigned Series,
subject to the supervision of the Trustees of the Trust. The sub-adviser
formulates a continuous investment program for each such Series consistent with
its investment objectives and policies outlined in this Prospectus. Each
sub-adviser implements such programs by purchases and sales of securities and
regularly reports to JNFSI and the Trustees of the Trust with respect to the
implementation of such programs.
 
     As compensation for their services, the sub-advisers receive fees from
JNFSI computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as
an annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of such Series. The
fees are calculated on the basis of the average of all valuations of net assets
of each Series made at the close of business on each business day of the Trust
during the period for which such fees are paid through the date of calculation.
Once the average net assets of a Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is
reduced with respect to such excess. The following is a schedule of the
management fees JNFSI currently is obligated to pay the sub-advisers out of the
advisory fee it receives from each Series as specified above:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           $0 TO    $50 TO    $100 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M - MILLION)                                             $50 M    $100 M    $150 M     $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- --------------                                             -----    ------    -------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                        <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series*..........................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Capital Growth Series*.............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Global Equities Series*............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................     .55%      .55%       .55%       .55%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series**.............................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .35%       .35%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series***......................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .35%       .35%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series**......................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series.................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................     .20%      .15%       .15%      .125%      .10%      .075%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................    .375%      .35%       .35%       .30%      .30%       .25%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................    .225%     .225%      .225%      .175%      .15%       .10%
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $20 TO    $50 TO
                                                                $20 M    $50 M     $200 M      $200 M+
                                                                -----    ------    ------      -------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>         <C>
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .45%      .40%     .40%****     .40%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     .75%      .60%     .50%         .50%****
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .60%      .50%     .50%****     .50%
</TABLE>
 
   * Prior to September 16, 1996, the sub-advisory fees payable to Janus for
     these Series were: $0 to $50 million -- .60%; $50 to $150 million -- .55%;
     $150 to $300 million -- .45%; $300 to $500 million -- .40%; over $500
     million -- .40%.
 
                                       34
<PAGE>   35
 
  ** Prior to May 1, 1997, the sub-advisory fees for these Series were payable
     to Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. and were: $0 to $50 million -- .50%;
     $50 to $150 million -- .40%; $150 to $300 million -- .30%; $300 to $500
     million -- .25%; over $500 million -- .20%.
 
 *** Prior to May 1, 1997, the sub-advisory fee for this Series was payable to
     PPM and was: $0 to $50 million -- .25%; $50 to $150 million -- .20%; $150
     to $300 million -- .175%; $300 to $500 million -- .15%; over $500 million
     -- .125%.
 
**** When average assets exceed this amount, the sub-advisory fee asterisked is
     applicable to all amounts in this Series.
 
     With respect to the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and in
connection with the advisory consulting agreement between Salomon Brothers and
SBAM Limited, Salomon Brothers will pay SBAM Limited, as full compensation for
all services provided under the advisory consulting agreement, a portion of its
investment management fee. The amount payable to SBAM Limited will be equal to
the fee payable under Salomon Brothers' sub-advisory agreement multiplied by the
portion of the assets of the Series that SBAM Limited has been delegated to
manage divided by the current value of the net assets of the Series.
 
OTHER TRUST EXPENSES
 
     In addition to the investment advisory fee, the Trust incurs expenses,
including legal, auditing and accounting expenses, Trustees' fees and expenses,
insurance premiums, brokers' commissions, taxes and governmental fees, expenses
of issue or redemption of shares, expenses of registering or qualifying shares
for sale, reports and notices to shareholders, and fees and disbursements of
custodians, transfer agents, registrars, shareholder servicing agents and
dividend disbursing agents, and certain expenses with respect to membership fees
of industry associations.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company purchases the shares of the Series at their net asset
value using premiums received on Policies issued by Accounts. These Accounts are
funded by shares of the Trust. There is no sales charge. All shares are sold at
net asset value.
 
     The net asset value per share of each Series is determined at the close of
regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern
time) each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open. The net asset value per
share is calculated by adding the value of all securities and other assets of a
Series, deducting its liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares
outstanding.
 
     Shares of the Trust are currently sold primarily to separate accounts of
Jackson National Life Insurance Company, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan
48911 to fund the benefits under variable insurance or annuity Policies.
Further, it is anticipated that shares of the Trust will be sold to certain
qualified retirement plans.
 
     All investments in the Trust are credited to the shareholder's account in
the form of full and fractional shares of the designated Series (rounded to the
nearest 1/1000 of a share). The Trust does not issue share certificates.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                SHARE REDEMPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company separate account redeems shares to make benefit or
surrender payments under the terms of its Policies. Redemptions are processed on
any day on which the Trust is open for business and are effected at net asset
value next determined after the redemption order, in proper form, is received by
the Trust's transfer agent.
 
     The Trust may suspend the right of redemption only under the following
unusual circumstances:
 
     - when the New York Stock Exchange is closed (other than weekends and
       holidays) or trading is restricted;
 
     - when an emergency exists, making disposal of portfolio securities or the
       valuation of net assets not reasonably practicable; or
 
     - during any period when the SEC has by order permitted a suspension of
       redemption for the protection of shareholders.
 
                                       35
<PAGE>   36
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     DESCRIPTION OF SHARES -- The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to
issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest
of each Series and to divide or combine such shares into a greater or lesser
number of shares without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial interests
in the Trust. Each share of a Series represents an equal proportional interest
in that Series with each other share. The Trust reserves the right to create a
number of different Series. In that case, the shares of each Series would
participate equally in the earnings, dividends, and assets of the particular
Series. Upon liquidation of a Series, its shareholders are entitled to share pro
rata in the net assets of such Series available for distribution to
shareholders.
 
     As of April 7, 1997, Jackson National Life Insurance Company owned 5.2% of
the outstanding shares of the Trust.
 
     SERIES TRANSACTIONS -- The Trust's portfolio transactions are executed
through brokers who are considered by the appropriate sub-adviser as able to
provide execution at the most favorable prices and in the most effective manner.
Portfolio security transactions may be executed through brokers who are
affiliated with the Trust, JNFSI or a sub-adviser. In addition, brokers may be
selected taking into account such brokers' assistance in the purchase of
variable annuity contracts funded by the Trust (although such assistance or
absence thereof is neither a qualifying nor a disqualifying factor in such
selection). See the Statement of Additional Information for more detailed
information.
 
     VOTING RIGHTS -- Except for matters affecting a particular Series, as
described below, all shares of the Trust have equal voting rights and may be
voted in the election of Trustees and on other matters submitted to the vote of
the shareholders. Shareholders' meetings ordinarily will not be held unless
required by the 1940 Act. As permitted by Massachusetts law, there normally will
be no shareholders' meetings for the purpose of electing Trustees unless and
until such time as fewer than a majority of the Trustees holding office have
been elected by shareholders. At that time, the Trustees then in office will
call a shareholders' meeting for the election of Trustees. The Trustees must
call a meeting of shareholders for the purpose of voting upon the removal of any
Trustee when requested to do so by the record holders of 10% of the outstanding
shares of the Trust. A Trustee may be removed after the holders of record of not
less than two-thirds of the outstanding shares have declared that the Trustee be
removed either by declaration in writing or by votes cast in person or by proxy.
Except as set forth above, the Trustees shall continue to hold office and may
appoint successor Trustees, provided that immediately after the appointment of
any successor Trustee, at least two-thirds of the Trustees have been elected by
the shareholders. Shares do not have cumulative voting rights. Thus, holders of
a majority of the shares voting for the election of Trustees can elect all the
Trustees. No amendment may be made to the Declaration of Trust without the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Trust, except
that amendments to conform the Declaration to the requirements of applicable
federal laws or regulations or the regulated investment company provisions of
the Code may be made by the Trustees without the vote or consent of
shareholders. If not terminated by the vote or written consent of a majority of
its outstanding shares, the Trust will continue indefinitely.
 
     In matters affecting only a particular Series, the matter shall have been
effectively acted upon by a majority vote of that Series even though: (1) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of any other Series; or (2) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of the Trust.
 
     Shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the
Trust. The risk of a shareholder incurring any financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself
would be unable to meet its obligations. The Declaration of Trust contains an
express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust
and provides that notice of the disclaimer must be given in each agreement,
obligation or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or Trustees. The
Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of any shareholder held
personally liable for the obligations of the Trust and also provides for the
Trust to reimburse the shareholder for all legal and other expenses reasonably
incurred in connection with any such claim or liability.
 
                                       36
<PAGE>   37
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust may from time to time advertise several types of historical
performance for the Series. The performance advertised will be based on
historical results and is not intended to indicate future performance. The
performance figures advertised for a Series may or may not reflect the effect of
any charges that are imposed under a variable annuity or variable life contract
that is funded by the Trust. Such charges, described in the variable annuity or
variable life prospectus, will have the effect of reducing the performance
described below.
 
     Each Series may advertise standardized average annual total return,
calculated in a manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
non-standardized total return. Standardized average annual total return will
show the percentage rate of return of a hypothetical initial investment of
$1,000 for the most recent one, five and ten year periods, or for a period
covering the time the Series has been in existence if the Series has not been in
existence for one of the prescribed periods. Because average annual total
returns tend to smooth out variations in the Series' returns, you should
recognize that they are not the same as actual year-by-year results. Non-
standardized total return may be for periods other than those required to be
presented or may otherwise differ from standardized average annual total return.
 
     Each Series may also advertise yield, and the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series may also advertise effective yield. Yield, as calculated by each Series
other than the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, refers to the annualized
income generated by an investment in the Series over a specified thirty-day
period. The yield is calculated by assuming that the income generated by the
investment during that thirty-day period is generated each thirty-day period
over a twelve-month period and is shown as a percentage of the investment.
Yield, as calculated by the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, is a measure of
the net dividend and interest income earned over a specific seven-day period
expressed as a percentage of the offering price of the Series. The yield is an
annualized figure, which means that it is assumed that the Series generates the
same level of net income over a 52-week period. Effective yield is calculated
under rules prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission and assumes a
weekly reinvestment of income earned. The effective yield will be slightly
higher than the yield due to this compounding effect. Because yield accounting
methods differ from the methods used for financial reporting and tax accounting
purposes, a Series' yield may not equal its distribution rate, the income paid
to a shareholder's account, or the income reported in the Series' financial
statements.
 
     The performance of the Series may be compared to the performance of other
mutual funds or mutual fund indices with similar objectives and policies as
reported by Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"), CDA Investment
Technologies, Inc. ("CDA") or Donoghue's Money Fund Report. Lipper and CDA
performance calculations are based upon changes in net asset value with all
dividends reinvested and do not include the effect of any sales charges. The
Series' performance may also be compared to that of the Consumer Price Index or
various unmanaged stock and bond indices including, but not limited to, Salomon
Brothers Broad Investment Grade Index, Lehman Brothers High Yield Index, Lehman
Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, Salomon Brothers Treasury Index, S&P MidCap 400
Index, Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index, Morgan Stanley Europe
and Australasia, Far East Equity Index, Russell 2000 Index, and S&P 500 Index.
 
     From time to time, a Series also may quote information from publications
including, but not limited to, the following: Morningstar, Inc., The Wall Street
Journal, Money Magazine, Forbes, Barron's, The New York Times, USA Today,
Institutional Investor and Registered Representative. Also, investors may want
to compare the historical returns of various investments, performance indices of
those investments or economic indicators, including but not limited to stocks,
bonds, certificates of deposit and other bank products, money market funds and
U.S. Treasury obligations. Certain of these alternative investments may offer
fixed rates of return and guaranteed principal, and may be insured. Economic
indicators may include, without limitation, indicators of market rate trends and
cost of funds, such as Federal Home Loan Bank Board 11th District Cost of Funds
Index (COFI).
 
     Each Series' shares are sold at net asset value. Each Series' returns will
fluctuate. Shares of a Series are redeemable by an investor at the then current
net asset value, which may be more or less than original cost. Additional
information concerning each Series' performance appears in the Statement of
Additional Information, and in the Trust's Annual Report to Shareholders which
may be obtained, without charge, by writing or calling the Trust.
 
                                       37
<PAGE>   38
 
     SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES -- All inquiries regarding the Trust should be
directed to the Trust at the telephone number or address shown on the cover page
of this Prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   TAX STATUS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust's policy is to meet the requirements of Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code. Each Series intends to distribute all its taxable net
investment income and capital gains to shareholders, and therefore, will not be
required to pay any federal income taxes.
 
     Each Series of the Trust is treated as a separate entity for purposes of
the regulated investment company provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and,
therefore, the assets, income, and distributions of each Series are considered
separately for purposes of determining whether or not the Series qualifies as a
regulated investment company.
 
                                       38
<PAGE>   39
 
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT
 
State Street Bank and Trust Company
1776 Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
 
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
Price Waterhouse LLP
100 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
 
LEGAL COUNSEL
 
Blazzard, Grodd & Hasenauer, P.C.
943 Post Road East
Westport, CT 06881
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.
5901 Executive Drive
Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
                                       39
<PAGE>   40
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      APPENDIX A -- RATINGS OF INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
A-1, A-2 AND PRIME-1, PRIME-2 COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
     Commercial paper rated by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group has the following
characteristics: Liquidity ratios are adequate to meet cash requirements.
Long-term senior debt is rated "A" or better. The issuer has access to at least
two additional channels of borrowing. Basic earnings and cash flow have an
upward trend with allowance made for unusual circumstances. Typically, the
issuer's industry is well established and the issuer has a strong position
within the industry. The reliability and quality of management are unquestioned.
Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determine whether the
issuer's commercial paper is rated A-1 or A-2.
 
     The ratings Prime-1 and Prime-2 are the two highest commercial paper
ratings assigned by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. Among the factors considered
by it in assigning ratings are the following: (1) evaluation of the management
of the issuer; (2) economic evaluation of the issuer's industry or industries
and an appraisal of speculative-type risks which may be inherent in certain
areas; (3) evaluation of the issuer's products in relation to competition and
customer-acceptance; (4) liquidity; (5) amount and quality of long-term debt;
(6) trend of earnings over a period of ten years; (7) financial strength of a
parent company and the relationships which exist with the issuer; and (8)
recognition by the management of obligations which may be present or may arise
as a result of public interest questions and preparations to meet such
obligations. Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determines
whether the issuer's commercial paper is rated Prime-1 or 2.
 
CORPORATE BONDS
 
  STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the higher rated issued only in small degree.
 
     A. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
 
     BBB. Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
 
     BB, B, CCC, CC, C. Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC, and C is regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest
and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. BB indicates
the lowest degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
 
     CI. The rating CI is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is
being paid.
 
     D. Debt rated D is in default, and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
 
  MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
                                       A-1
<PAGE>   41
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time.
 
     Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact, have
speculative characteristics as well.
 
     BA. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
 
     B. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
 
     CAA. Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal and
interest.
 
     CA. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in
a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
 
     C. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues
so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
 
MUNICIPAL BONDS
 
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Bonds rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differ from the higher rated issues only in small degree.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated
categories.
 
     BBB. Bonds which are rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity
to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate
protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are
more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal
for bonds in this category than for bonds in higher rated categories.
 
     Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "B" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
 
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in
fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
 
     NOTE: Moody's applies numerical modifiers, 1, 2 AND 3 in each generic
rating classification from "AA" through "B" in its corporate bond rating system.
The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its
generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the
modifier indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating
category.
 
                                       A-2
<PAGE>   42
 
PROSPECTUS
May 1, 1997
 
JNL(R) SERIES TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5901 Executive Drive - Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
     JNL Series Trust ("Trust") is an open-end management investment company
organized under the laws of Massachusetts, by a Declaration of Trust, dated June
1, 1994. The Trust currently offers shares in separate Series, each with its own
investment objective. The shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company
separate accounts to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies.
 
     JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in
common stocks of issuers of any size, including larger, well-established
companies and smaller, emerging growth companies.
 
     JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by emphasizing investments in
common stocks of medium-sized companies. Although the Series expects to
emphasize such securities, it may also invest in smaller or larger companies.
 
     JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term
growth of capital by investing primarily in common stocks of foreign and
domestic issuers of any size. This Series normally invests in issuers from at
least five different countries including the United States.
 
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term capital
appreciation by investing in a diversified, actively managed portfolio of equity
securities, primarily of companies with total market capitalization of $1
billion or greater.
 
     JNL/EAGLE CORE EQUITY SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term
capital appreciation and, secondarily, current income by investing primarily in
a diversified portfolio of common stocks which the sub-adviser believes offers
above-average potential for long-term capital appreciation.
 
     JNL/EAGLE SMALLCAP EQUITY SERIES seeks as its investment objective
long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in equity securities of
smaller companies which the sub-adviser believes offer potential for rapid
growth.
 
     JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term growth
of capital. Since income is not an objective, any income generated by the
investment of this Series' assets will be incidental to its objective. It is
intended that this Series will invest primarily in the common stocks of
companies believed by the sub-adviser to have opportunity for capital growth.
 
     JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES seeks as its investment objective capital
growth, with income as a secondary objective by investing primarily in common
stocks which the sub-adviser believes to be undervalued relative to underlying
asset value or earnings potential at the time of purchase.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES seeks as its investment objective
reasonable income, long-term capital growth and preservation of capital. It is
intended that this Series will invest in common stocks and fixed income
securities, with emphasis on income-producing securities which appear to have
some potential for capital enhancement.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES seeks as its investment objective as
high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation of capital
and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high-quality, short-term money
market instruments.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the Series will seek
capital appreciation. The Series seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in
a globally diverse portfolio of fixed income investments and by giving the
sub-adviser broad discretion to deploy the Series' assets among certain segments
of the fixed income market that the sub-adviser believes will best contribute to
achievement of the Series' investment objectives. In pursuing its investment
objectives, the Series reserves the right to
 
                                        1
<PAGE>   43
 
invest predominantly in securities rated in medium or lower rating categories or
as determined by the sub-adviser to be of comparable quality. Although the
Series has the ability to invest up to 100% of the Series' assets in lower-rated
securities, the Series' sub-adviser does not anticipate investing in excess of
75% of the Series' assets in such securities.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES seeks as its
investment objective a high level of current income, by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment-grade bonds.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment
objective long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital through investments primarily
in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective
long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common stock of
companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the potential
for above average growth.
 
     As a result of the market risk inherent in any investment, there is no
assurance that the investment objective of any of the Series will be realized.
Investments in a Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by the U.S.
Government or any other entity or person, and there can be no assurance that the
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series will be able to maintain a stable net asset
value of $1.00 per share.
 
     THE JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES, JNL GLOBAL
EQUITIES SERIES, JNL/EAGLE CORE EQUITY SERIES, JNL/EAGLE SMALLCAP EQUITY SERIES,
PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES AND SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES MAY
INVEST IN HIGH YIELD, HIGH RISK BONDS. BONDS OF THIS TYPE ARE TYPICALLY SUBJECT
TO GREATER MARKET FLUCTUATIONS AND RISK OF LOSS OF INCOME AND PRINCIPAL DUE TO
DEFAULT BY THE ISSUER THAN ARE INVESTMENTS IN LOWER YIELDING, HIGHER RATED
BONDS. (SEE "INVESTMENT RISKS".)
 
     Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series, the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was
the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity
Series was the PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series.
 
     This Prospectus provides you with the basic information you should know
before investing in the Series. You should read it and keep it for future
reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated May 1, 1997, has been
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You can obtain a copy without
charge by calling (800) 322-8257, or writing the JNL Series Trust Service
Center, P.O. Box 25127, Lansing, MI 48909. The Securities and Exchange
Commission maintains a Web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains the Statement
of Additional Information, material incorporated by reference, and other
information regarding registrants that file electronically with the Commission.
                            ------------------------
 
     THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
                            ------------------------
 
  THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, DATED MAY 1, 1997, IS INCORPORATED
                              HEREIN BY REFERENCE.
 
                                        2
<PAGE>   44
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           TOPIC                                PAGE
                           -----                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
TRUST EXPENSES..............................................       4
 
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS........................................       6
 
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES..........................      10
 
COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.........      24
 
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST.....................................      31
 
INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES..................................      37
 
SHARE REDEMPTION............................................      37
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION......................................      37
 
PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES......................      38
 
TAX STATUS..................................................      39
</TABLE>
 
                                        3
<PAGE>   45
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                 TRUST EXPENSES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON PURCHASES                         NONE
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON REINVESTED DIVIDENDS              NONE
DEFERRED SALES LOAD                                             NONE
REDEMPTION FEES                                                 NONE
EXCHANGE FEE                                                    NONE
</TABLE>
 
ANNUAL SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
(As a percentage of average net assets.)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               OTHER
                                                              MANAGEMENT   EXPENSES(AFTER      TOTAL SERIES
                                                                 FEE       REIMBURSEMENT)   OPERATING EXPENSES
                                                              ----------   --------------   ------------------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>              <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%           .15%               1.15%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%           .15%              1.125%
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series................................     .90%           .15%*              1.05%
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series............................     .95%           .15%*              1.10%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series**..................................     .90%           .15%               1.05%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series**............................     .90%           .15%               1.05%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series**...........................     .75%           .15%                .90%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%           .15%                .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%           .15%                .85%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%           .15%               1.25%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
</TABLE>
 
       *The JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series and the JNL/Eagle Small/Cap Equity
Series commenced operations on September 16, 1996. These are estimated expenses
for the first fiscal year of operation. Actual expenses may be greater or lesser
than those shown.
 
      **The management fees for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series, JNL/Putnam Value
Equity Series and the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series were changed effective May
1, 1997. See "Management of the Trust." The changes represent an increase in
management fees for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series when net assets exceed $50
million, an increase in management fees for the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series
at all net asset levels and a decrease in management fees for the PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series at all net asset levels.
 
     Currently, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. will reimburse each of
the Series for annual expenses (excluding Management Fees) in excess of .15% of
average daily net assets. Voluntary reimbursements to these Series may be
modified or discontinued at any time. Prior to reimbursement, Total Series
Operating Expenses as a percentage of net assets for the period ended December
31, 1996, were: JNL Aggressive Growth Series -- 1.40%; JNL Capital Growth Series
- -- 1.27%; JNL Global Equities Series -- 1.63%; JNL/Alger Growth Series -- 1.19%;
JNL/Putnam Growth Series -- 1.27%; JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series -- 1.53%; PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series -- 1.22%; PPM America/JNL Money Market Series --
 .85%; Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series -- 1.44%; Salomon Brothers/JNL
U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series -- 1.37%; T. Rowe Price/JNL Established
Growth Series -- 1.11%; T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series
- -- 1.29%; and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series -- 1.14%; and are expected
to be: JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series -- 4.57% and JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity
Series -- 4.77%.
 
                                        4
<PAGE>   46
 
EXAMPLE -
 
     The following example illustrates the expenses you would incur on a $1,000
investment, assuming (1) 5% annual return and (2) redemption at the end of each
time period:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1 YEAR    3 YEARS    5 YEARS    10 YEARS
                                                                ------    -------    -------    --------
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Global Equities Series..................................     $12        $37        $63        $140
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................     $11        $36        $62        $137
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series................................     $11        $33        N/A        N/A
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series............................     $11        $35        N/A        N/A
JNL/Putnam Growth Series....................................     $11        $33        $58        $128
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series..............................     $11        $33        $58        $128
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series.............................     $ 9        $29        $50        $111
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     $ 8        $24        $42        $93
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     $10        $32        $55        $122
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     $ 9        $27        $47        $105
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     $10        $32        $55        $122
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     $13        $40        $69        $151
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     $11        $35        $61        $134
</TABLE>
 
     The purpose of this table is to assist you in understanding the various
costs and expenses that you will bear directly or indirectly. The example
assumes a 5% annual rate of return pursuant to the requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. This hypothetical rate of return is not
intended to be representative of past or future performance of the Series.
 
                                        5
<PAGE>   47
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     The following table provides selected per share data for one share of each
Series. The information does not reflect any charges imposed by a separate
account investing in shares of the Series. You should refer to the appropriate
separate account prospectus for additional information regarding such charges.
 
     The information has been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent
accountants, and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and
notes thereto, together with the report of Price Waterhouse LLP included in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              JNL AGGRESSIVE                  JNL CAPITAL                     JNL GLOBAL
                                              GROWTH SERIES                  GROWTH SERIES                 EQUITIES SERIES
                                       ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------
                                       PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
                                         APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
                                         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
                                       DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                           1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996
                                       ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>                                    <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF
  PERIOD.............................     $13.13         $10.00          $13.86         $10.00          $13.75          $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss).........       0.05           0.01            0.06             --            0.03            0.10
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items......................       1.10           3.53            0.70           4.70            2.72            4.02
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Total income from investment
  operations.........................       1.15           3.54            0.76           4.70            2.75            4.12
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income...........      (0.05)            --              --             --           (0.08)             --
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions.......................      (0.71)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (0.90)          (0.37)
Return of capital....................      (0.14)            --              --             --           (0.32)             --
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Total distributions..................      (0.90)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (1.30)          (0.37)
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Net increase.........................       0.25           3.13            0.60           3.86            1.45            3.75
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD.......     $13.38         $13.13          $14.46         $13.86          $15.20          $13.75
                                         =======         ======         =======         ======         =======         =======
TOTAL RETURN(A)......................       8.72%         35.78%           5.45%         47.94%          19.99%          41.51%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands).........................    $29,555         $8,527         $36,946         $9,578         $48,638         $16,141
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c).......................       1.09%          1.09%           1.09%          1.09%           1.14%           1.15%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)...........       0.77%          0.27%           0.91%         (0.49)%          0.37%           0.39%
Portfolio turnover rate..............      85.22%        163.84%         115.88%        128.56%          52.02%         142.36%
Average commission rate paid(d)......    $0.0242            n/a         $0.0196            n/a         $0.0162             n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID
  INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b)..........................       1.40%          2.77%           1.27%          2.08%           1.63%           2.25%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)..............       0.46%         (1.41)%          0.73%         (1.48)%         (0.12)%         (0.71)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
 *  Commencement of operations.
 
**  Effective May 1, 1997, the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series is
    the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and is managed by PPM America, Inc., the
    JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series is the JNL/Putnam Growth Series
    and is managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc., and the PPM
    America/JNL Value Equity Series is the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series and is
    managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc.
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all distributions, and a complete redemption of the
    investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total return is
    not annualized.
(b) Annualized.
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        6
<PAGE>   48
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   JNL/EAGLE       JNL/EAGLE
                                  CORE EQUITY      SMALLCAP        JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT       JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES        SERIES       EQUITY SERIES   COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES**     COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES**
    --------------------------   -------------   -------------   --------------------------   --------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,     OCTOBER 16,   SEPTEMBER 16,   SEPTEMBER 16,     APRIL 1,       MAY 15,       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO       1995* TO       1996* TO        1996* TO        1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO
    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,
        1996          1996           1996            1996            1996          1996           1996          1996
    ------------   -----------   -------------   -------------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------
<S>                <C>           <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
       $10.38        $10.00          $10.00          $10.00         $11.17        $10.00         $12.50        $10.00
           --            --            0.03           (0.01)          0.10          0.25           0.04          0.01
         0.78          0.38            0.62            1.55           0.98          1.40           2.12          3.66
      -------        ------         -------         -------        -------        ------
         0.78          0.38            0.65            1.54           1.08          1.65           2.16          3.67
      -------        ------         -------         -------        -------        ------
           --            --           (0.03)             --          (0.15)        (0.19)         (0.05)           --
           --            --              --              --          (0.18)        (0.29)         (0.40)        (1.17)
           --            --              --              --             --            --             --            --
      -------        ------         -------         -------        -------        ------
           --            --           (0.03)             --          (0.33)        (0.48)         (0.45)        (1.17)
      -------        ------         -------         -------        -------        ------
         0.78          0.38            0.62            1.54           0.75          1.17           1.71          2.50
      -------        ------         -------         -------        -------        ------
       $11.16        $10.38          $10.62          $11.54         $11.92        $11.17         $14.21        $12.50
      =======        ======         =======         =======        =======        ======
         7.51%         3.80%           6.47%          15.40%          9.72%        16.60%         17.28%        37.69%
      $38,252        $8,649         $ 1,954         $ 1,944        $24,419        $4,761        $22,804        $2,518
         1.07%         1.03%           1.05%           1.10%          1.04%         1.01%          1.04%         0.95%
        (0.02)%       (0.17)%          1.10%          (0.26)%         2.39%         2.99%          0.94%         0.28%
        59.92%        50.85%           1.36%          28.01%        158.15%       115.84%        184.33%       255.03%
      $0.0441           n/a         $0.0452         $0.0264        $0.0494           n/a        $0.0175           n/a
         1.19%         1.89%           4.57%           4.77%          1.22%         3.71%          1.27%         5.38%
        (0.14)%       (1.03)%         (2.42)%         (3.93)%         2.21%         0.29%          0.71%        (4.15)%
</TABLE>
 
                                        7
<PAGE>   49
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                PPM AMERICA/JNL               PPM AMERICA/JNL            SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                                              MONEY MARKET SERIES          VALUE EQUITY SERIES**          GLOBAL BOND SERIES
                                          ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                          PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                                            APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
                                            1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
                                          DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                              1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
                                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD....      $1.00          $1.00         $12.77         $10.00         $10.46         $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss)............       0.04           0.04           0.10           0.23           0.42           0.81
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items.........................         --             --           1.97           2.86           0.70           0.24
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Total income from investment
  operations............................       0.04           0.04           2.07           3.09           1.12           1.05
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income..............      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.15)         (0.17)         (0.69)         (0.56)
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions..........................         --             --          (0.19)         (0.15)         (0.26)         (0.03)
Return of capital.......................         --             --             --             --             --             --
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Total distributions.....................      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.34)         (0.32)         (0.95)         (0.59)
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Net increase............................         --             --           1.73           2.77           0.17           0.46
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD..........      $1.00          $1.00         $14.50         $12.77         $10.63         $10.46
                                            =======         ======        =======         ======        =======         ======
TOTAL RETURN(A).........................       3.61%          4.59%         16.25%         31.14%         10.68%         10.74%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands)............................    $23,752         $6,816        $17,761         $3,365        $12,483         $6,380
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c)..........................       0.75%          0.75%          0.85%          0.87%          0.99%          1.00%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)..............       4.75%          5.06%          2.29%          2.33%          7.52%          9.01%
Portfolio turnover rate.................         --              --         13.71%         30.12%        109.85%        152.89%
Average commission rate paid(d).........        n/a            n/a        $0.0259            n/a            n/a            n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b).............................       0.85%          1.30%          1.53%          2.28%          1.44%          2.14%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b).................       4.65%          4.51%          1.61%          0.91%          7.07%          7.87%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 * Commencement of operations.
**  Effective May 1, 1997, the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series is
    the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and is managed by PPM America, Inc., the
    JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series is the JNL/Putnam Growth Series
    and is managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc., and the PPM
    America/JNL Value Equity Series is the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series and is
    managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc.
 
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, and a complete redemption
    of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total
    return is not annualized.
 
(b) Annualized.
 
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
 
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        8
<PAGE>   50
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S.                                        T. ROWE PRICE/
       GOVERNMENT & QUALITY            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL             JNL INTERNATIONAL             T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
            BOND SERIES            ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES     EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES        MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
    ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
        1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
    ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
       $10.09         $10.00         $11.36         $10.00         $11.25         $10.00         $13.43         $10.00
         0.24           0.45           0.03           0.07           0.06           0.04          (0.05)          0.06
         0.24           0.02           1.81           2.68           0.90           1.21           1.92           3.90
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.48           0.47           1.84           2.75           0.96           1.25           1.87           3.96
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.34)         (0.34)         (0.04)         (0.06)         (0.12)            --          (0.05)            --
        (0.03)         (0.04)         (0.09)         (1.33)         (0.01)            --          (0.36)         (0.53)
           --             --          (0.51)            --             --             --             --             --
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.37)         (0.38)         (0.64)         (1.39)         (0.13)            --          (0.41)         (0.53)
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.11           0.09           1.20           1.36           0.83           1.25           1.46           3.43
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
       $10.20         $10.09         $12.56         $11.36         $12.08         $11.25         $14.89         $13.43
      =======         ======        =======         ======        =======        =======        =======        =======
         4.82%          4.65%         16.12%         28.23%          8.54%         12.50%         13.91%         40.06%
       $9,832         $3,007        $32,291         $8,772        $48,204        $24,211        $47,104        $10,545
         0.84%          0.84%          1.00%          1.00%          1.25%          1.25%          1.10%          1.10%
         5.72%          5.41%          0.59%          0.75%          1.09%          0.78%         (0.18)%         0.82%
       218.50%        253.37%         36.41%        101.13%          5.93%         16.45%         25.05%         66.04%
          n/a            n/a        $0.0288            n/a        $0.0257            n/a        $0.0326            n/a
         1.37%          2.53%          1.11%          2.09%          1.29%          2.14%          1.14%          2.10%
         5.19%          3.72%          0.48%         (0.34)%         1.05%         (0.11)%        (0.22)%        (0.18)%
</TABLE>
 
     Each Series' recent performance and holdings will be detailed twice a year
in the Trust's annual and semi-annual reports, which are sent to all
shareholders.
 
                                        9
<PAGE>   51
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Investments in each Series are made in many different securities which
provide diversification to minimize risk. While there is careful selection of
portfolio securities and constant supervision by a team of professional
investment managers, there can be no guarantee that the Series' objectives will
be achieved. Because of differences in investment objectives and policies, as
well as acceptable degrees of risk, the performance of a Series may differ even
though more than one Series may utilize the same securities selection.
 
     Unless otherwise stated, the investment objectives and policies set forth
in this Prospectus are not fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees
without shareholder approval. Each Series is subject to additional investment
policies and restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information,
some of which are fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder
approval.
 
     Currently, shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company separate
accounts ("Accounts") to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies
("Policies") issued by life insurance companies. The Accounts purchase shares of
the Trust in accordance with variable account allocation instructions received
from owners of the Policies. The Trust then uses the proceeds to buy securities
for its Series. The investment adviser manages the Series from day to day to
accomplish the Trust's investment objectives. The kinds of investments and the
way they are managed depends on what is happening in the economy and the
financial marketplaces. Each of the Accounts, as a shareholder, has an ownership
in the Trust's investments. The Trust also offers to buy back (redeem) shares of
the Trust from the Accounts at any time at net asset value.
 
     Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. ("JNFSI"), a wholly owned
subsidiary of Jackson National Life Insurance Company, serves as investment
adviser for all the Series of the Trust. Janus Capital Corporation serves as
sub-adviser for the JNL Capital Growth, JNL Aggressive Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series; Fred Alger Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the
JNL/Alger Growth Series; Eagle Asset Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for
the JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series and JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series; Putnam
Investment Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the JNL/Putnam Growth and
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series; PPM America, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the
PPM America/JNL Balanced and PPM America/JNL Money Market Series; Salomon
Brothers Asset Management Inc serves as sub-adviser for the Salomon Brothers/JNL
U.S. Government & Quality Bond and Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series; T.
Rowe Price Associates, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series; and Rowe
Price-Fleming International, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe
Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series.
 
     Reference is made herein to ratings assigned to certain types of securities
by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("S&P"), Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
("Moody's"), Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch"), Duff & Phelps, Inc. ("Duff
& Phelps") and Thomson BankWatch, Inc., recognized independent securities
ratings institutions. A description of the ratings categories assigned by S&P
and Moody's is contained in Appendix A.
 
DIVERSIFICATION
 
     Each of the Series except the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth
Series qualifies as a diversified investment company under the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"). As a fundamental policy, a diversified
fund will not purchase a security of any issuer (except cash items and U.S.
Government securities) if a) it would cause the Series to own more than 10% of
the outstanding voting securities of that issuer or b) it would cause the
Series' holdings of that issuer to amount to more than 5% of the Series' total
assets (as applied in each case to 75% of the Series' total assets). As a
fundamental policy, the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series also
will not purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any
issuer; however, only 50% of total assets are subject to the 5% test. The JNL
Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series may invest up to 50% of total
assets in the securities of as few as two issuers (not to exceed 25% in any one
issuer) while the other Series may invest up to 25% of their total assets in the
securities of one issuer. Neither the JNL Capital Growth nor the JNL Aggressive
Growth Series anticipates concentrating its holdings in so few issuers unless
its sub-adviser believes a security has the potential for substantial capital
appreciation consistent with a Series' investment policies and goals. To the
extent that any Series invests more than 5% of its assets in a particular
issuer, its exposure to credit risks and/or market risks associated with that
issuer increases. As an additional fundamental policy, no Series will invest
more than 25% of its total assets in any particular industry (other than U.S.
Government securities), except that the PPM America/JNL
 
                                       10
<PAGE>   52
 
Money Market Series may invest a greater percent of its assets in the domestic
banking industry.
 
  INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS) LIMITATIONS
 
     In addition to the diversification requirements stated above, each Series
intends to comply with the diversification requirements currently imposed by the
IRS on separate accounts of insurance companies as a condition of maintaining
the tax-deferred status of variable contracts. More specific information may be
contained in the participating insurance company's separate account prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Aggressive Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital. It is a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing primarily in common stocks of issuers of any size,
including larger, well-established companies and smaller, emerging growth
companies. The smaller or newer a company is, the more likely it may be to
suffer more significant losses as well as realize more substantial growth than
larger or more established issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Capital Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment objective by normally
investing at least 50% of its equity assets in securities issued by medium-sized
companies. Medium-sized companies are those whose market capitalizations fall
within the range of companies in the S&P MidCap 400 Index (the "MidCap Index").
Companies whose capitalization falls outside this range after the Series'
initial purchase continue to be considered medium-sized companies for the
purpose of this policy. As of December 30, 1996, the MidCap Index included
companies with capitalizations between approximately $192 million and $6.5
billion. The range of the MidCap Index is expected to change on a regular basis.
Subject to the above policy, the Series may also invest in smaller or larger
issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Global Equities Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a diversified Series that pursues its investment objective primarily through
investments in common stocks of foreign and domestic issuers. The Series is
permitted to invest on a worldwide basis in companies and other organizations of
any size, regardless of country of organization or place of principal business
activity, as well as domestic and foreign governments, government agencies and
other governmental entities. The Series normally invests in securities of
issuers from at least five different countries, including the United States,
although the Series may at times invest all of its assets in fewer than five
countries. The JNL Global Equities Series may not be suitable for investors that
are not able to bear the additional risks associated with the Series' more
extensive holdings of foreign securities.
 
                                       11
<PAGE>   53
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES,
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth, and JNL Global
Equities Series invests substantially all of its assets in common stocks when
its sub-adviser believes that the relevant market environment favors profitable
investing in those securities. Common stock investments are selected in
industries and companies that the sub-adviser believes are experiencing
favorable demand for their products and services, and which operate in a
favorable competitive environment and regulatory climate. The sub-adviser's
analysis and selection process focuses on stocks with earnings growth potential
that may not be recognized by the market. Such securities are selected primarily
for their capital growth potential; investment income is not a consideration.
These selection criteria apply equally to stocks of foreign issuers. In
addition, factors such as expected levels of inflation, government policies
influencing business conditions, the outlook for currency relationships, and
prospects for relative economic growth among countries, regions or geographic
areas may warrant greater consideration in selecting foreign stocks.
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series invests primarily in common stocks of foreign and domestic
companies. Each Series may invest to a lesser degree in other types of
securities, including preferred stock, warrants, convertible securities and debt
securities. Debt securities that the Series may purchase include corporate bonds
and debentures (not to exceed 35% of net assets in high-yield/high-risk bonds)
(See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds"); government securities;
mortgage- and asset-backed securities (not to exceed 25% of assets); zero coupon
bonds (not to exceed 10% of assets); indexed/structured notes; high-grade
commercial paper; certificates of deposit; and repurchase agreements. Such
securities may offer growth potential because of anticipated changes in interest
rates, credit standing, currency relationships or other factors. Each of these
Series may also invest in short-term debt securities as a means of receiving a
return on idle cash.
 
     When the Series' sub-adviser believes that market conditions are not
favorable for profitable investing or when the sub-adviser is otherwise unable
to locate favorable investment opportunities, the Series' investments may be
hedged to a greater degree and/or its cash or similar investments may increase.
In other words, the Series do not always stay fully invested in stocks and
bonds. Cash or similar investments are residual -- they represent the assets
that remain after the sub-adviser has committed available assets to desirable
investment opportunities. When a Series' cash position increases, it may not
participate in stock market advances or declines to the extent that it would if
it remained more fully invested in common stocks.
 
     Although JNL Global Equities Series is committed to foreign investing, each
of these Series may invest without limit in equity and debt securities of
foreign issuers. The Series may invest directly in foreign securities
denominated in a foreign currency and not publicly traded in the United States.
Other ways of investing in foreign securities include depositary receipts or
shares, and passive foreign investment companies. Each of these Series may use
futures, options and other derivatives for hedging purposes or as a means of
enhancing return. Some securities that these Series may purchase may be issued
on a when-issued, delayed delivery or forward commitment basis.
 
     Each of JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global Equities
Series may invest in "special situations" from time to time. A special situation
arises when, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, the securities of a particular
issuer will be recognized and appreciate in value due to a specific development
with respect to that issuer. Developments creating special situations might
include, among others, a new product or process, a technological breakthrough, a
management change or other extraordinary corporate event, or differences in
market supply of and demand for the security. Investment in special situations
may carry an additional risk of loss in the event that the anticipated
development does not occur or does not attract the expected attention. The
impact of this strategy on a Series will depend on the Series' size and the
extent of its holdings of special situation issuers relative to total net
assets.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>   54
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Alger Growth Series is long-term
capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series that seeks to achieve its
objective by investing in equity securities, such as common or preferred stocks
that are listed on a national securities exchange, or securities convertible
into or exchangeable for equity securities, including warrants and rights.
Except during temporary defensive periods, the Series invests at least 85
percent of its net assets in equity securities and at least 65 percent of its
total assets in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase of
the securities, have total market capitalization of $1 billion or greater.
 
     It is anticipated that the Series will invest primarily in companies whose
securities are traded on domestic stock exchanges or in the over-the-counter
market. These companies may still be in the developmental stage, may be older
companies that appear to be entering a new stage of growth progress owing to
factors such as management changes or development of new technology, products or
markets or may be companies providing products or services with a high unit
volume growth rate. The Series may invest up to 35 percent of its total assets
in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase, have total
market capitalization of less than $1 billion. In order to afford the Series the
flexibility to take advantage of new opportunities for investments in accordance
with its investment objective, the Series may hold up to 15 percent of its net
assets in money market instruments and repurchase agreements. During temporary
defensive periods, the Series may invest up to 100% of its assets in debt
securities, money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. The Portfolio
may also purchase restricted securities (subject to a limit on all illiquid
securities of 10 percent of net assets), lend its securities and enter into
"short sales against the box." (See "Common Types of Securities and Management
Practices").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          JNL/EAGLE CORE EQUITY SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series is long-term
capital appreciation and, secondarily, current income. It is a diversified
Series that seeks to achieve its objective by investing in common stocks that
the sub-adviser believes meet the criteria for one of three individual equity
strategies. The investment strategies which the sub-adviser utilizes to pursue
the Series' objective are the growth equity strategy, the value equity strategy
and the equity income strategy. In pursuing the growth equity strategy, the
sub-adviser will invest in securities which it believes have sufficient growth
potential to offer above-average long-term capital appreciation. Securities
which meet the criteria for the growth equity strategy will have at least one of
the following characteristics:
 
     - expected earnings-per-share growth greater than the average of the S&P
       500 Composite Stock Price Index ("S&P 500"); or
 
     - return on equity greater than the average of the S&P 500.
 
     In pursuing the value equity strategy, the sub-adviser will invest in
securities which it believes indicate above-average financial soundness and high
intrinsic value relative to price. Securities which meet the criteria for the
value equity strategy will have at least one of the following characteristics at
the time of purchase:
 
     - price-to-earnings ratio or price-to-book value ratio of less than or
       approximately equal to 75% of that of the broader equity market (as
       measured by the S&P 500); or
 
     - yield that approximates at least 50% of the prevailing average yield to
       maturity of the long-term U.S. Government bond, as measured by the Lehman
       Brothers Long Treasury Bond Index (or other similar index if this index
       is not available); or
 
     - per share going concern value (as estimated by the sub-adviser) that
       exceeds book value and market value; or
 
     - long-term debt below, or approximately equivalent to, tangible net worth.
 
     In pursuing the equity income strategy, the sub-adviser will invest in
income-producing securities.
 
     Under normal market conditions, at least 65% of the Series' total assets
will be invested in U.S. common stocks. With respect to the other 35% of its
total assets, the Series may invest in income-producing securities that the sub-
adviser believes are consistent with the Series' investment objective, common
stocks of foreign issuers, American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), foreign
currency transactions with respect to underlying common stock, preferred
 
                                       13
<PAGE>   55
 
stock, convertible securities, corporate debt obligations, obligations of the
U.S. Government, its agencies and instrumentalities, repurchase agreements,
money market instruments, real estate investment trusts, futures contracts,
options, rights or warrants to subscribe for or purchase common stocks, and
securities that track the performance of a broad-based securities index, such as
S&P Depository Receipts. The Series may also loan its portfolio securities and
engage in short sales "against the box."
 
     The Series will emphasize investments in securities rated investment grade
and unrated securities deemed by the sub-adviser to be of comparable quality,
but may invest up to 35% of its assets in securities rated below investment
grade and unrated securities deemed by the sub-adviser to be of comparable
quality. The Series, at the discretion of the sub-adviser, may retain a security
that has been downgraded below the initial investment criteria. (See "Investment
Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds"). The Series may invest up to 25% of its
total assets in securities of foreign issuers, including ADRs. (See "Investment
Risks -- Foreign Securities").
 
     For temporary defensive purposes during anticipated periods of general
market decline, the Series may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market
instruments, including securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government,
its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements secured thereby,
bank certificates of deposit and banker's acceptances issued by banks having net
assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent fiscal year,
high grade commercial paper, and other long- and short-term debt instruments
that are rated A or higher by Moody's or S&P. It is impossible to predict when,
or for how long, such alternative strategies may be utilized.
 
     In selecting common stocks to pursue the growth equity strategy, the
sub-adviser makes selections in part based on its opinion regarding the
sustainability of the company's competitive advantage in the marketplace as well
as the sub-adviser's opinion of the company's management team. The sub-adviser
will invest in companies that, in its opinion, will have long-term returns
greater than the average for the S&P 500. The sub-adviser normally will
reevaluate a security if it underperforms the S&P 500 by 15% or more during a
three-month period. At that time, a decision will be made to sell or hold the
security. If a particular stock appreciates to over 5% of the total assets of
the portfolio, the sub-adviser generally will reduce the position to less than
5%. If the stock price appreciates to a level that is not sustainable in the
opinion of the sub-adviser, the position generally will be sold to realize the
existing profits and avoid a potential price correction. If the sub-adviser
identifies a security that it considers to be a better investment than a current
holding, the sub-adviser generally will consider selling the current holding to
add the new security.
 
     In selecting common stocks to pursue the value equity strategy, the
sub-adviser screens a universe of over 2500 companies. From this universe, the
sub-adviser anticipates that only a few hundred companies will meet one or more
of these investment criteria. Each of the companies is analyzed individually in
terms of its past and present competitive position within its perspective
industry. The sub-adviser makes selections based on its projections of the
companies' growth in earnings and dividends, earnings momentum, and
undervaluation based on a dividend discount model. The sub-adviser develops
target prices and value ranges from this analysis and makes portfolio selection
from among the top-rated securities. The sub-adviser periodically monitors the
Series' holdings of securities meeting these criteria to assure that they
continue to meet the selection criteria. A security normally will be sold once
it reaches its target price, when negative changes occur with respect to the
company or its industry, or when there is a significant change in the security
with respect to one or more of the four selection criteria listed above. The
Series may at times continue to hold equity securities that no longer meet the
criteria but that the sub-adviser deems suitable investments in view of the
Series' investment objective.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        JNL/EAGLE SMALLCAP EQUITY SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series is
long-term capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series that seeks to achieve
its objective by investing primarily in the equity securities of companies, most
of which have a total market capitalization of less than $1 billion ("small
capitalization companies"). Market capitalization is the total value of a
company's outstanding common stock. The Series will invest in securities of
companies that appear to the sub-adviser to be undervalued in relation to their
long-term earning power or the asset value of their issuers and that have
significant future growth potential. Securities may be undervalued because of
many factors, including market decline, poor economic conditions, tax-loss
selling or actual or anticipated unfavorable developments affecting the issuer
of the security. Any or all of these factors may provide buying opportunities
 
                                       14
<PAGE>   56
 
at attractive prices relative to the long-term prospects for the companies in
question.
 
     The Series invests primarily in common stocks, but also may invest in
preferred stocks, investment grade securities convertible into common stocks,
and warrants. The Series may purchase securities traded on recognized securities
exchanges and in the over-the-counter market. The Series normally invests at
least 65% of its total assets in the equity securities of companies each of
which, at the time of purchase, has a total market capitalization of less than
$1 billion. The Series may invest its remaining assets in ADRs, U.S. Government
securities, repurchase agreements or other short-term money market instruments.
 
     The Series will emphasize investments in securities rated investment grade
and unrated securities deemed by the sub-adviser to be of comparable quality,
but may invest up to 5% of its assets in securities rated below investment grade
and unrated securities deemed by the sub-adviser to be of comparable quality.
The Series, at the discretion of the sub-adviser, may retain a security that has
been downgraded below the initial investment criteria. (See "Investment Risks --
High Yield/High Risk Bonds").
 
     The sub-adviser currently believes that investments in small capitalization
companies may offer greater opportunities for growth of capital than investments
in larger, more established companies. Investing in smaller, newer issuers
generally involves greater risks than investing in larger, more established
issuers. Companies in which the Series is likely to invest may have limited
product lines, markets or financial resources and may be subject to more abrupt
or erratic market movements than securities of larger, more established
companies or the market averages in general. In addition, many small
capitalization companies may be in the early stages of development. Accordingly,
an investment in the Series may not be appropriate for all investors.
 
     For temporary defensive purposes during anticipated periods of general
market decline, the Series may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market
instruments, including securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government,
its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements secured thereby, as
well as bank certificates of deposit and banker's acceptances issued by banks
having net assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent
fiscal year, high-grade commercial paper, and other long- and short-term debt
instruments that are rated A or higher by Moody's or S&P. It is impossible to
predict when, or for how long, such alternative strategies may be utilized.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Putnam Growth Series is to seek
long-term capital growth. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by retaining maximum flexibility in the management of the Series
consisting mainly of common stocks. Since income is not an objective, any income
generated by the investment of the Series' assets will be incidental to its
objective.
 
     The Series intends to invest primarily in the common stocks of companies
believed by the sub-adviser to have opportunities for capital growth. However,
since no one class or type of security at all times necessarily affords the
greatest promise for capital appreciation, the Series may invest any amount or
proportion of its assets in any class or type of security believed by the
sub-adviser to offer potential for capital appreciation over both the
intermediate and long term. Normally, of course, its investment will consist
largely of common stocks selected for the promise they offer of appreciation of
capital. However, the Series may also invest in preferred stocks, bonds,
convertible preferred stocks and convertible debentures if, in the judgment of
the sub-adviser, the investment would further its investment objectives. The
Series may invest up to 20% of its net assets in foreign securities. The Series
may also engage in certain options transactions and enter into financial futures
contracts and related options. Each security held will be monitored to determine
whether it is contributing to the basic objective of long-term growth of
capital.
 
     The sub-adviser believes that a portfolio of such securities provides the
most effective way to obtain capital appreciation, but when, for temporary
defensive purposes (as when market conditions for growth stocks are adverse),
other types of investments appear advantageous on the basis of combined
considerations of risk and the protection of capital values, investments may be
made in fixed income securities with or without warrants or conversion features.
In addition, for such temporary defensive purposes, the Series may pursue a
policy of retaining cash or investing part or all of its assets in cash
equivalents.
 
     To the extent that the Series holds bonds, it may be negatively affected by
adverse interest rate movements and credit quality. Generally, when interest
rates rise it may be expected that the value of bonds may decrease.
 
                                       15
<PAGE>   57
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series is capital
growth, with income as a secondary objective by investing primarily in common
stocks which the sub-adviser believes to be undervalued relative to underlying
asset value or earnings potential at the time of purchase. It is a diversified
Series that seeks superior market cycle total returns. The Series invests
primarily in the common stocks of large capitalization companies mainly
domiciled in the United States. Common stocks for this purpose include common
stocks and equivalents, such as securities convertible into common stocks and
securities having common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants to
purchase common stocks. Under normal circumstances, the Series will invest at
least 65% of the value of its total assets in equity securities.
 
     Companies considered attractive generally will have the following
characteristics: 1) stocks typically will have distinctly above average dividend
yields, and 2) the market prices of the stocks will be undervalued relative to
the normal earning power of the company. The thrust of this approach is to seek
investments where current investor enthusiasm is low, as reflected in their
valuations. Exposure is reduced when the investment community's perceptions
improve and the company approaches fair valuation.
 
     The sub-adviser takes a long-term investment approach by placing a strong
emphasis on its ability to determine attractive values and does not try to
determine short-term changes in the general market level. It is anticipated that
the annual turnover rate of the Series will not exceed 100% in normal
circumstances. The Series may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the common
stocks of foreign issuers, including ADRs.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series is to seek
reasonable income, long-term capital growth and preservation of capital. It is a
diversified Series that intends to invest based on combined consideration of
risk, income, capital enhancement, and protection of capital value. The Series
may invest in any type or class of security. Normally, the Series will invest in
common stocks and fixed income securities; however, it may also invest in
securities convertible into common stocks. At least 25% of the value of its
assets will be invested in fixed income senior securities.
 
     The Series may also engage in certain options transactions and enter into
financial futures contracts and related options for hedging purposes and may
invest in deferred or zero coupon debt obligations. In implementing the
investment objectives of this Series, the sub-adviser will select securities
believed to have potential for the production of current income, with emphasis
on securities that also have potential for capital enhancement. For temporary
defensive purposes when the sub-adviser believes that adverse market conditions
warrant, the Series may actively pursue a policy of retaining cash or investing
part or all of its assets in cash equivalents, such as government securities and
high grade commercial paper.
 
     The Series will emphasize investments in investment grade fixed income
securities which are rated within the four highest categories by recognized
rating agencies, e.g., S&P and Moody's. However, the Series may take a modest
position in lower or non-rated fixed income securities, but the Series will not
invest more than 35% of its net assets, determined at the time of investment, in
high yield, high risk fixed income securities. The Series may invest in bonds
rated as low as Ca by Moody's or CC by S&P. A fixed income securities issue may
have its ratings reduced below the minimum permitted for purchase by the Series.
In that event the sub-adviser will determine whether the Series should continue
to hold such issue in its portfolio. If, in the sub-adviser's opinion, market
conditions warrant, the Series may increase its position in lower or non-rated
securities from time to time. The lower rated and non-rated convertible
securities are predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity
to repay principal and pay interest. Investment in lower rated and non-rated
convertible fixed income securities normally involves a greater degree of market
and credit risk than does investment in securities having higher ratings. The
price of these fixed income securities will generally move in inverse proportion
to interest rates. In addition, non-rated securities are often less marketable
than rated securities. To the
 
                                       16
<PAGE>   58
 
extent that the Series holds any lower rated or non-rated securities, it may be
negatively affected by adverse economic developments, increased volatility and
lack of liquidity. (See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series is to
achieve as high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation
of capital and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high quality, short-term
money market instruments. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing mainly in debt, but the Series shall retain maximum
flexibility in the management of its portfolio.
 
     The Series invests in high quality money market instruments. These
instruments are considered to be among the safest investments available because
of their short maturities, liquidity and high quality ratings.
 
     This Series will invest exclusively in the following types of high quality,
U.S. dollar denominated money market instruments that mature in 397 days or
less:
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies and instrumentalities.
 
     - Obligations, such as time deposits, certificates of deposit and bankers
       acceptances, issued by U.S. banks and savings banks that are members of
       the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, including their foreign
       branches and foreign subsidiaries, and issued by domestic and foreign
       branches of foreign banks.
 
     - Corporate obligations, including commercial paper, of domestic and
       foreign issuers.
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or
       any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities,
       including obligations of supranational entities.
 
     - Repurchase agreements on obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
     Investments are managed to meet the quality and diversification
requirements of the 1940 Act. Under Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, the Series
must maintain a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of 90 days or less
and may only purchase U.S. dollar denominated instruments that are determined to
present minimal credit risks and that at the time of acquisition are rated in
the top two rating categories by the required number of nationally recognized
statistical rating organizations (at least two or, if only one rating agency has
rated the security, that one agency) or, if unrated, are deemed comparable in
quality. Determination of credit risks and quality will be made by the
sub-adviser in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trust's Board of
Trustees. The diversification requirements of Rule 2a-7 provide generally that
the Series may not at the time of acquisition invest more than 5% of its assets
in securities of any one issuer or invest more than 5% of its assets in
securities that have not been rated in the highest category by the required
number of rating agencies or, if unrated, have not been deemed comparable,
except U.S. Government securities and repurchase agreements on such securities.
A more complete description of the rating categories is set forth under Appendix
A.
 
     The Series may invest more than 25% of its total assets in the domestic
banking industry, which would cause the Series to be more exposed to the risks
of such industry. Bank obligations held by the Series do not benefit materially
from insurance from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The 25%
limitation does not apply to U.S. Government securities, including obligations
issued or guaranteed by its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond
Series is to seek a high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the
Series will seek capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series. The Series
seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in a globally diverse portfolio of
fixed income investments and by giving the sub-adviser broad discretion to
deploy the assets among certain segments of the fixed income market that the
sub-adviser believes will best contribute to the achievement of the Series'
objectives. At any point in time, the sub-adviser will
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   59
 
deploy the Series' assets based on its analysis of current economic and market
conditions and the relative risks and opportunities present in the following
market segments: U.S. Government obligations, investment grade domestic
corporate debt, high yield domestic corporate debt securities, mortgage-backed
securities and investment grade and high yield foreign corporate and sovereign
debt securities. The sub-adviser has entered into an agreement with its
London-based affiliate, Salomon Brothers Asset Management Limited ("SBAM
Limited") pursuant to which SBAM Limited will provide certain advisory services
to the sub-adviser relating to currency transactions and investments in
non-dollar denominated debt securities for the benefit of the Series.
 
     The sub-adviser will determine the amount of assets to be allocated to each
type of security in which it invests based on its assessment of the maximum
level of income and capital appreciation that can be achieved from a portfolio
which is invested in these securities. In making this determination, the
sub-adviser will rely in part on quantitative analytical techniques that measure
relative risks and opportunities of each type of security based on current and
historical economic, market, political and technical data for each type of
security, as well as on its own assessment of economic and market conditions
both on a global and local (country) basis. In performing quantitative analysis,
the sub-adviser will employ prepayment analysis and option adjusted spread
technology to evaluate mortgage securities, mean variance optimization models to
evaluate foreign debt securities, and total rate of return analysis to measure
relative risks and opportunities in other fixed income markets. Economic factors
considered will include current and projected levels of growth and inflation,
balance of payments, status and monetary policy. The allocation of assets to
foreign debt securities will further be influenced by current and expected
currency relationships and political and sovereign factors. The sub-adviser will
continuously review this allocation of assets and make such adjustments as it
deems appropriate. The Series does not plan to establish a minimum or a maximum
percentage of the assets which it will invest in any particular type of fixed
income security.
 
     In addition, the sub-adviser will have discretion to select the range of
maturities of the various fixed income securities in which the Series invests.
The sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions the Series'
portfolio securities will have a weighted average life of 6 to 10 years.
However, the weighted average life of the portfolio securities may vary
substantially from time to time depending on economic and market conditions. The
Series may adopt temporary defensive position investment policies during adverse
market, economic or other circumstances that require immediate action to avoid
losses. During periods when and to the extent that the Series has assumed a
temporary defensive position, the Series may not be pursuing its investment
objective.
 
     The investment grade corporate debt securities and the investment grade
foreign debt securities to be purchased by the Series are domestic and foreign
debt securities rated within the four highest bond ratings of either Moody's or
S&P, or, if unrated, deemed to be of equivalent quality in the sub-adviser's
judgment. While debt securities carrying the fourth highest quality rating (Baa
by Moody's or BBB by S&P) are considered investment grade and are viewed to have
adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, investments in such
securities involve a higher degree of risk than that associated with investments
in debt securities in the higher rating categories and such debt securities lack
outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative
characteristics as well. For example, changes in economic conditions or other
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal
and interest payments than is the case with higher grade debt securities.
 
     The types and characteristics of the U.S. Government obligations and
mortgage-backed securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth below in
the discussion of investment objectives and policies for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series. In addition, the Series may
purchase privately issued mortgage securities which are not guaranteed by the
U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities and may purchase stripped
mortgage securities, including interest-only and principal-only securities.
Additional information with respect to securities to be purchased by the Series
is set forth below under the sections entitled "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks."
 
     The Series may invest in debt obligations issued or guaranteed by a foreign
sovereign government or one of its agencies or political subdivisions and debt
obligations issued or guaranteed by supranational organizations. Supranational
entities include international organizations designated or supported by
governmental entities to promote economic reconstruction or development and
international banking institutions and related government agencies. Examples
include the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the "World
Bank"), the European Coal and Steel Community, the Asian Development Bank and
the Inter-American Development Bank. Such supranational issued instruments may
be denominated in multi-national currency units.
 
     In pursuing the Series' investment objectives, the Series reserves the
right to invest predominantly in medium or lower-rated securities. Although the
Series has the ability to invest up to 100% of its assets in lower-rated
securities, the Series' sub-adviser does not anticipate investing in excess of
 
                                       18
<PAGE>   60
 
75% of the Series' assets in such securities. Investments of this type involve
significantly greater risks, including price volatility and risk of default in
the payment of interest and principal, than higher-quality securities. The
sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions, a significant
portion of the Series assets will be invested in such high risk, high yield
securities. By investing a portion of the Series' assets in securities rated
below investment grade as well as through investments in mortgage securities and
foreign debt securities, the sub-adviser expects to provide investors with a
higher yield than a high-quality domestic corporate bond fund. Certain of the
debt securities in which the Series may invest may be rated as low as C by
Moody's or D by S&P or may be considered comparable to securities having such
ratings. Medium and lower-rated securities are considered to be predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal.
 
     In light of the risks associated with high yield corporate and sovereign
debt securities, the sub-adviser will take various factors into consideration in
evaluating the creditworthiness of an issuer. For corporate debt securities,
these will typically include the issuer's financial resources, its sensitivity
to economic conditions and trends, the operating history of the issuer, and the
experience and track record of the issuer's management. For sovereign debt
instruments, these will typically include the economic and political conditions
within the issuer's country, the issuer's overall and external debt levels and
debt service ratios, the issuer's access to capital markets and other sources of
funding, and the issuer's debt service payment history. The sub-adviser will
also review the ratings, if any, assigned to the security by any recognized
rating agencies, although the sub-adviser's judgment as to the quality of a debt
security may differ from that suggested by the rating published by a rating
service. The Series' ability to achieve its investment objective may be more
dependent on the sub-adviser's credit analysis than would be the case if it
invested in higher quality debt securities.
 
     The high yield sovereign debt securities in which the Series may invest are
U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities, including Brady Bonds, and non-dollar
denominated debt securities that are issued or guaranteed by governments or
governmental entities of developing and emerging countries. The sub-adviser
expects that these countries will consist primarily of those which have issued
or have announced plans to issue Brady Bonds, but the portfolio is not limited
to investing in the debt of such countries. Brady Bonds are debt securities
issued under the framework of the Brady Plan, an initiative announced by former
U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor
nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness. (See "Investment
Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds"). The sub-adviser anticipates that the
Series' initial investments in sovereign debt will be concentrated in Latin
American countries, including Mexico and Central and South American and
Caribbean countries. The sub-adviser expects to take advantage of additional
opportunities for investment in the debt of North African countries, such as
Nigeria and Morocco, Eastern European countries, such as Poland and Hungary, and
Southeast Asian countries, such as the Philippines. Sovereign governments may
include national, provincial, state, municipal or other foreign governments with
taxing authority. Governmental entities may include the agencies and
instrumentalities of such governments, as well as state-owned enterprises. (For
a more detailed discussion of high yield sovereign debt securities, see
"Investment Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds").
 
     The Series will be subject to special risks as a result of its ability to
invest up to 100% of its assets in foreign securities (including emerging market
securities). Such securities may be non-U.S. dollar denominated and there is no
limit on the percentage of the Series' assets that can be invested in non-dollar
denominated securities. The sub-adviser anticipates that, under current market
conditions, a significant portion of the Series' assets will be invested in
foreign securities. (See "Investment Risks"). The ability to spread its
investments among the fixed income markets in a number of different countries
may, however, reduce the overall level or market risk to the extent it may
reduce the Series' exposure to a single market.
 
     The Series may invest in zero coupon securities and pay-in-kind bonds. (See
"Common Types of Securities and Management Practices"). In addition, the Series
may invest in fixed and floating rate loans ("Loans") arranged through private
negotiations between a corporate borrower or a foreign sovereign entity and one
or more financial institutions ("Lenders"). The Series may invest in such Loans
in the form of participations in Loans ("Participations") and assignments of all
or a portion of Loans from third parties ("Assignments"). The Series considers
these investments to be investments in debt securities for purposes of this
Prospectus. Participations typically will result in the Series having a
contractual relationship only with the Lender, not with the borrower. The Series
will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to
which it is entitled only from the Lender selling the Participation and only
upon receipt by the Lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with
purchasing Participations, the Series generally will have no right to enforce
compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement relating to the
Loan, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and the Series may not
benefit directly from any collateral supporting the Loan in which it has
purchased the Participation. As a result, the Series will assume the credit risk
of both the borrower and the Lender that is selling the Participation. In the
event
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   61
 
of the insolvency of the Lender selling a Participation, the Series may be
treated as a general creditor of the Lender and may not benefit from any set-off
between the Lender and the borrower. The Series will acquire Participations only
if the Lender interpositioned between the Series and the borrower is determined
by the sub-adviser to be creditworthy. When the Series purchases Assignments
from Lenders, the Series will acquire direct rights against the borrower on the
Loan, except that under certain circumstances such rights may be more limited
than those held by the assigning Lender.
 
     The Series may have difficulty disposing of Assignments and Participations.
Because the market for such instruments is not highly liquid, the Series
anticipates that such instruments could be sold only to a limited number of
institutional investors. The lack of a highly liquid secondary market may have
an adverse impact on the value of such instruments and will have an adverse
impact on the Series' ability to dispose of particular Assignments or
Participations in response to a specific economic event, such as deterioration
in the creditworthiness of the borrower. The Series currently treats investments
in Participations and Assignments as illiquid for purposes of its limitation on
investment in illiquid securities. However, the Trustees may in the future adopt
policies and procedures for the purpose of determining whether Assignments and
Loan Participations are liquid or illiquid. Pursuant to such policies and
procedures, the Trustees would delegate to the sub-adviser the determination as
to whether a particular Loan Participation or Assignment is liquid or illiquid,
requiring that consideration be given to, among other things, the frequency of
quotes, the number of dealers willing to sell and the number of potential
purchasers, the nature of the Loan Participation or Assignment and the time
needed to dispose of it and the contractual provisions of the relevant
documentation. The Trustees would periodically review purchases and sales of
Assignments and Loan Participations. To the extent that liquid Assignments and
Loan Participations that the Series held became illiquid, due to the lack of
sufficient buyers or market or other conditions, the percentage of the Series'
assets invested in illiquid assets would increase.
 
     The Series may invest up to 20% of its assets in common stock, convertible
securities, warrants, preferred stock or other equity securities when consistent
with the Series' objectives. The Series will generally hold such equity
investments as a result of purchases of unit offerings of fixed income
securities which include such securities or in connection with an actual or
proposed conversion or exchange of fixed income securities, but may also
purchase equity securities not associated with fixed income securities when, in
the opinion of the sub-adviser, such purchase is appropriate.
 
     The Series currently intends to invest substantially all of its assets in
fixed income securities. In order to maintain liquidity, however, the Series may
invest up to 20% of its assets in high-quality short-term money market
instruments. If at some future date, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, adverse
conditions prevail in the market for fixed income securities, the Series for
temporary defensive purposes may invest its assets without limit in high-quality
short-term money market instruments. The types and characteristics of the money
market securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth in the discussion
of investment objectives and policies of the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, enter into mortgage "dollar rolls" and lend portfolio securities.
The Series will not make loans of portfolio securities with a value in excess of
25% of the Series' total assets. The Series may also enter into options, futures
and currency transactions, although with the exception of currency transactions,
it is not presently anticipated that any of these strategies will be utilized to
a significant degree by the Series. (See "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks"). The Series' ability to pursue
certain of these strategies may be limited by applicable regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission ("CFTC") and the federal income tax requirements applicable to
regulated investment companies.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   62
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government &
Quality Bond Series is to obtain a high level of current income. It is a
diversified Series that seeks to attain its objective by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment grade bonds.
 
     At least 65% of the total assets of the Series will be invested in:
 
     (1) U.S. Treasury obligations;
 
     (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of
         the U.S. Government which are backed by their own credit and may not be
         backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government;
 
     (3) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National
         Mortgage Association that are supported by the full faith and credit of
         the U.S. Government. Such securities entitle the holder to receive all
         interest and principal payments due whether or not payments are
         actually made on the underlying mortgages;
 
     (4) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities
         of the U.S. Government which are supported by their own credit but not
         the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, such as the Federal
         Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the Federal National Mortgage
         Association; and
 
     (5) collateralized mortgage obligations issued by private issuers for which
         the underlying mortgage-backed securities serving as collateral are
         backed (i) by the credit alone of the U.S. Government agency or
         instrumentality which issues or guarantees the mortgage-backed
         securities, or (ii) by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
         Government.
 
     Any guarantee of the securities in which the Series invests runs only to
the principal and interest payments on the securities and not to the market
value of such securities or to the principal and interest payments on the
underlying mortgages. In addition, the guarantee only runs to the portfolio
securities held by the Series and not the purchase of shares of the Series.
 
     The Series may invest in securities of any maturity or effective duration
and, accordingly, the composition and weighted average maturity of the Series'
portfolio will vary from time to time, based upon the sub-adviser's
determination of how best to achieve the Series' investment objective. With
respect to mortgage-backed securities in which the Series invests, average
maturity and duration are determined by using mathematical models that
incorporate prepayment assumptions and other factors that involve estimates of
future economic parameters. These estimates may vary from actual results,
particularly during periods of extreme market volatility. In addition, the
average maturity and duration of mortgage-backed derivative securities may not
accurately reflect the price volatility of such securities under certain market
conditions.
 
     A significant portion of the Series' assets may from time to time be
invested in mortgage-backed securities. The mortgage-backed securities in which
the Series invests represent participating interests in pools of fixed rate and
adjustable rate residential mortgage loans issued or guaranteed by agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. Mortgage-backed securities are issued
by lenders such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, and savings and loan
associations. Mortgage-backed securities generally provide monthly payments
which are, in effect, a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal
payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the
pooled mortgage loans. Principal prepayments result from the sale of the
underlying property or the refinancing or foreclosure of underlying mortgages.
 
     The yield of mortgage-backed securities is based upon the prepayment rates
experienced over the life of the security. Prepayments tend to increase during
periods of falling interest rates, while during periods of rising interest rates
prepayments will most likely decline. Reinvestment by the Series of scheduled
principal payments and unscheduled prepayments may occur at higher or lower
rates than the original investment, thus affecting the yield of the Series.
Monthly interest payments received by the Series have a compounding effect which
will increase the yield to shareholders as compared to debt obligations that pay
interest semi-annually. Because of the reinvestment of prepayments of principal
at current rates, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than Treasury
bonds of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining
interest rates. Also, although the value of debt securities may increase as
interest rates decline, the value of these pass-through type of securities may
not increase as much due to the prepayment feature.
 
     While the Series seeks a high level of current income, it cannot invest in
instruments such as lower grade
 
                                       21
<PAGE>   63
 
corporate obligations which offer higher yields but are subject to greater
credit risks. The Series will not knowingly invest in a high risk "mortgage
security," generally defined as any mortgage security that exhibits
significantly greater price volatility than a benchmark security, the   Federal
National Mortgage Association current coupon 30-year mortgage-backed pass
through security. Shares of the Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by
the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities. Neither the issuance by
nor the guarantee of a U.S. Government agency for a security constitutes
assurance that the security will not significantly fluctuate in value or that
the Series will receive the originally anticipated yield on the security.
 
     The Series may also invest up to 35% of its assets in U.S.          
dollar-denominated securities rated AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or Aaa, Aa, A or
Baa by Moody's, or if unrated, determined to be of comparable quality to
securities in those ratings categories by the sub-adviser. The Series may not
invest more than 10% of total assets in obligations of foreign issuers.
Investments in foreign securities will subject the Series to special
considerations related to political, economic and legal conditions outside of
the U.S. (See "Investment Risks"). These considerations include the possibility
of expropriation, nationalization, withholding taxes on income and difficulties
in enforcing judgments. Foreign securities may be less liquid and more volatile
than comparable U.S. securities.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, and lend portfolio securities. The Series will not make loans of
portfolio securities with a value in excess of 25% of the value of its total
assets. The Series may also enter into mortgage "dollar rolls." (For a
description of these investment practices and the risks associated with them,
see "Common Types of Securities and Management Practices" and "Investment
Risks").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series
is to seek long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies. A
growth company is defined as one which: (1) has demonstrated historical growth
of earnings faster than the growth of inflation and the economy in general; and
(2) has indications of being able to continue this growth pattern in the future.
Total return will consist primarily of capital appreciation or depreciation and
secondarily of dividend income.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest primarily in the common stock
of a diversified group of well-established growth companies. While current
dividend income is not a prerequisite in the selection of a growth company, the
companies in which the Series will invest normally have a record of paying
dividends and are generally expected to increase the amounts of such dividends
in future years as earnings increase. Although the Series will invest primarily
in U.S. common stocks, it may also purchase other types of securities, for
example, convertible securities, warrants, hybrid instruments, restricted
securities, futures and options, when considered consistent with the Series'
investment objective and program. The Series may invest up to 30% of its total
assets (excluding reserves) in foreign securities, including ADRs.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity
Investment Series is to seek long-term growth of capital through investments
primarily in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies. Total return
consists of capital appreciation or depreciation, dividend income, and currency
gains or losses.
 
     Over the last 30 years, many foreign economies have grown faster than the
United States' economy, and the return from equity investments in these
countries has often exceeded the return on similar investments in the United
States. Moreover, there has normally been a wide and largely unrelated variation
in performance between international equity markets over this period. Although
there can be no assurance that these conditions will continue, the Series'
sub-adviser, within the framework of diversification, seeks to identify and
invest in companies participating in the faster growing foreign economies and
markets. The sub-adviser believes that investment in foreign securities offers
significant potential for long-term capital appreciation and an opportunity to
achieve investment diversification. The Series may also purchase other
 
                                       22
<PAGE>   64
 
types of securities, for example, common and preferred stocks, convertible
securities, fixed income securities, hybrid instruments, restricted securities,
foreign currency transactions, futures and options.
 
     In analyzing companies for investment, the sub-adviser ordinarily looks for
one or more of the following characteristics: an above-average earnings growth
per share; high return on invested capital; healthy balance sheet; sound
financial and accounting policies and overall financial strength; strong
competitive advantages; effective research and product development and
marketing; efficient service; pricing flexibility; strength of management; and
general operating characteristics which will enable the companies to compete
successfully in their market place. While current dividend income is not a
prerequisite in the selection of portfolio companies, the companies in which the
Series invests, normally will have a record of paying dividends, and will
generally be expected to increase the amounts of such dividends in future years
as earnings increase.
 
     It is a diversified Series that intends to diversify investments broadly
among countries and to normally have at least three different countries
represented in the Series. The Series may invest in countries of the Far East
and Europe, as well as South Africa, Australia, Canada and other areas
(including developing countries). Under unusual circumstances, however, the
Series may invest substantially all of its assets in one or two countries.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series is
to provide long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common
stock of companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the
potential for above-average growth.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest at least 65% of its total
assets in a diversified portfolio of mid-cap common stocks with above-average
growth potential. A mid-cap company is defined as one whose market
capitalization falls within the capitalization range of companies included in
the S&P MidCap 400 Index. Mid-cap growth companies are often still in the early,
more dynamic phase of a company's life cycle, but have enough corporate history
that they are no longer considered new or emerging. By focusing their
activities, mid-cap companies may be more responsive and better able to adapt to
the changing needs of their markets. They are usually mature enough to have
established organizational structures and the depth of management needed to
expand their operations. In addition, these companies generally have sufficient
financial resources and access to capital to finance their growth.
 
     While investing in mid-cap growth companies generally entails greater risk
and volatility than investing in large, well-established companies, mid-cap
companies are expected to offer the potential for more rapid growth. They may
also offer greater potential for capital appreciation because of their higher
growth rates. In addition, the stocks of such companies are less actively
followed by securities analysts and may, therefore, be undervalued by investors.
 
     The sub-adviser will rely on its proprietary research to identify mid-cap
companies with attractive growth prospects. The Series will seek to invest
primarily in companies which: 1) offer proven products or services, 2) have a
historical record of earnings growth that is above average, 3) demonstrate the
potential to sustain earnings growth, 4) operate in industries experiencing
increasing demand, and/or 5) are believed to be reasonably valued in the
marketplace. There is, of course, no guarantee the Series will be able to
identify such companies or that its investment in them will be successful.
 
     Although the Series will invest primarily in U.S. common stocks, it may
also purchase other types of securities, for example, convertible securities,
restricted securities, hybrid instruments, warrants, futures and options, when
considered consistent with the Series' investment objective and program. The
Series may invest up to 25% of its assets (excluding reserves) in foreign
securities, including ADRs.
 
                                       23
<PAGE>   65
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
 
     This section describes some of the types of securities a Series may hold in
its portfolio and the various kinds of investment practices that may be used in
day-to-day portfolio management. A Series may invest in the following securities
or engage in the following practices to the extent that such securities and
practices are consistent with the Series' investment objective(s) and policies
described herein. Each Series' investment program is subject to further
restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
     BORROWING AND LENDING. A Series may borrow money from banks for temporary
or emergency purposes in amounts up to 25% of its total assets. To secure
borrowings a Series may mortgage or pledge securities in amounts up to 15% of
its net assets. As a fundamental policy, a Series will not lend securities or
other assets if, as a result, more than 25% of its total assets would be lent to
other parties.
 
     CASH POSITION. A Series may hold a certain portion of its assets in
repurchase agreements and money market securities rated in one of the two
highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating
organization, maturing in one year or less. For temporary, defensive purposes, a
Series may invest without limitation in such securities. This reserve position
provides flexibility in meeting redemptions, expenses, and the timing of new
investments, and serves as a short-term defense during periods of unusual market
volatility.
 
     COMMON AND PREFERRED STOCKS. Stocks represent shares of ownership in a
company. Generally, preferred stock has a specified dividend and ranks after
bonds and before common stocks in its claim on income for dividend payments and
on assets should the company be liquidated. After other claims are satisfied,
common stockholders participate in company profits on a pro rata basis; profits
may be paid out in dividends or reinvested in the company to help it grow.
Increases and decreases in earnings are usually reflected in a company's stock
price, so common stocks generally have the greatest appreciation and
depreciation potential of all corporate securities. While most preferred stocks
pay a dividend, a Series may purchase preferred stock where the issuer has
omitted, or is in danger of omitting, payment of its dividend. Such investments
would be made primarily for their capital appreciation potential. Although
common and preferred stocks have a history of long-term growth in value, their
prices tend to fluctuate in the short term, particularly those of smaller
companies.
 
     CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES AND WARRANTS. A Series may invest in debt or
preferred equity securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity
securities. Traditionally, convertible securities have paid dividends or
interest at rates higher than common stocks but lower than non-convertible
securities. They generally participate in the appreciation or depreciation of
the underlying stock into which they are convertible, but to a lesser degree. In
recent years, convertibles have been developed which combine higher or lower
current income with options and other features. Warrants are options to buy a
stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price any time during the
life of the warrants (generally, two or more years).
 
     FIXED INCOME SECURITIES. A Series may invest in fixed income securities of
companies which meet the investment criteria for the Series. The price of fixed
income securities fluctuates with changes in interest rates, generally rising
when interest rates fall and falling when interest rates rise. Prices of
longer-term securities generally increase or decrease more sharply than those of
shorter-term securities in response to interest rate changes.
 
     FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A Series will normally conduct its foreign
currency exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash), basis at the spot
rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering
into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies. A Series will
generally not enter into a forward contract with a term of greater than one
year.
 
     There are certain markets where it is not possible to engage in effective
foreign currency hedging. This may be true, for example, for the currencies of
various countries where the foreign exchange markets are not sufficiently
developed to permit hedging activity to take place.
 
     FOREIGN SECURITIES. A Series may invest in foreign securities. These
include non-dollar denominated securities traded principally outside the U.S.
and dollar denominated securities traded in the U.S. (such as ADRs). Such
investments increase a Series' diversification and may enhance return, but they
also involve some special risks such as exposure to potentially adverse local
political and economic developments; nationalization and exchange controls;
potentially lower liquidity and higher volatility; possible problems arising
from accounting, disclosure, settlement, and regulatory practices that differ
from U.S. standards; and the chance that fluctuations in foreign exchange rates
will decrease the investment's value (favorable changes can increase its value).
 
                                       24
<PAGE>   66
 
     FUTURES AND OPTIONS. Futures are often used to manage risk, because they
enable the investor to buy or sell an asset in the future at an agreed upon
price. Options give the investor the right, but not the obligation, to buy or
sell an asset at a predetermined price in the future. A Series may buy and sell
futures contracts (and options on such contracts) to manage its exposure to
changes in securities prices and foreign currencies and as an efficient means of
adjusting overall exposure to certain markets. Subject to certain limits
described in the Statement of Additional Information, a Series may purchase or
sell call and put options on securities, financial indices, and foreign
currencies, and may invest in futures contracts on foreign currencies and
financial indices, including interest rates or an index of U.S. Government
securities, foreign government securities or equity or fixed income securities.
 
     Futures contracts and options may not always be successful hedges; their
prices can be highly volatile; using them could lower a Series' total return;
and the potential loss from the use of futures can exceed the Series' initial
investment in such contracts. These instruments may also be used for non-hedging
purposes such as increasing a Series' income.
 
     The Series' use of commodity futures and commodity options trading should
not be viewed as providing a vehicle for shareholder participation in a
commodity pool. Rather, in accordance with regulations adopted by the CFTC, a
Series will employ such techniques only for (1) hedging purposes, or (2)
otherwise, to the extent that aggregate initial margin and required premiums do
not exceed 5 percent of the Series' net assets.
 
     ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Series may invest up to 15% of its net assets
(10% in the case of the JNL/Alger Growth Series and the PPM America/JNL Money
Market Series) in securities that are considered illiquid. Illiquid investments
include repurchase agreements not terminable within seven days, securities for
which market quotations are not readily available and certain restricted
securities. Illiquid investments may be difficult to sell promptly at an
acceptable price. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may
be costly to a Series. Certain restricted securities may be determined to be
liquid in accordance with guidelines adopted by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
 
     HIGH YIELD BONDS. A Series may invest its assets in fixed income securities
offering high current income that are in the lower rating categories of
recognized rating agencies or are non-rated. These lower-rated fixed income
securities are considered on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect
to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of
the obligation and generally will involve more credit risk than securities in
the higher rating categories.
 
     DEBT HOLDINGS BY RATINGS. During the period ended December 31, 1996, the
percentage of the assets of the following Series invested in debt securities in
each of the rating categories of S&P and the debt securities not rated by an
established rating service, determined on a dollar weighted average, were:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   PERCENTAGE OF NET
                                        ASSETS
                                   -----------------
                                   SALOMON BROTHERS/
                                      JNL GLOBAL
S&P RATING                            BOND SERIES
- ----------                         -----------------
<S>                                <C>
AAA..............................        28.05%
AA...............................         1.78%
A................................         0.45%
BBB..............................         4.09%
BB...............................         6.83%
B................................        29.51%
CCC..............................         2.84%
CC...............................            0%
C................................            0%
D................................            0%
Not Rated........................        26.45%
</TABLE>
 
     HYBRID INSTRUMENTS. These instruments can combine the characteristics of
securities, futures and options. For example, the principal amount, redemption
or conversion terms of a security could be related to the market price of some
commodity, currency or securities index. Such securities may bear interest or
pay dividends at below market (or even relatively nominal) rates. Under certain
conditions, the redemption value of such an investment could be zero. Hybrids
can have volatile prices and limited liquidity and their use by a Series may not
be successful.
 
     MORTGAGE- AND ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES. A Series may invest in mortgage- and
asset-backed securities. These securities are subject to prepayment risk, that
is, the possibility that prepayments on the underlying mortgages or other loans
will cause the principal and interest on the mortgage- and asset-backed
securities to be paid prior to their stated maturities. A sub-adviser will
consider estimated prepayment rates in calculating the average weighted
maturities of the Series. Unscheduled prepayments are more likely to accelerate
during periods of declining long-term interest rates. In the event of a
prepayment during a period of declining interest rates, a Series may be required
to invest the unanticipated proceeds at a lower interest rate. Prepayments
during such periods will also limit a Series' ability to participate in as large
a market gain as may be experienced with a comparable security not subject to
prepayment.
 
     The Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series may purchase stripped
mortgage-backed securities, which may be considered derivative mortgage-backed
securities,
 
                                       25
<PAGE>   67
 
which may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government or
by private entities. Stripped mortgage-backed securities have greater volatility
than other types of mortgage-backed securities. Stripped mortgage-backed
securities are structured with two or more classes that receive different
proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage
assets. In the most extreme case, one class will receive all of the interest,
while the other class will receive all of the principal. The yield to maturity
of such mortgage backed securities that are purchased at a substantial discount
or premium are extremely sensitive to changes in interest rates as well as to
the rate of principal payments (including prepayments) on the related underlying
mortgage assets.
 
     MORTGAGE DOLLAR ROLLS. Certain Series may enter into mortgage "dollar
rolls" in which a Series sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in the
current month and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar
(same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified future date. During
the roll period, a Series foregoes principal and interest paid on the
mortgage-backed securities. A Series is compensated by the interest earned on
the cash proceeds of the initial sale and from negotiated fees paid by brokers
offered as an inducement to the Series to "roll over" its purchase commitments.
A Series may only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a specific type
of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position which matures on
or before the forward settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. At the
time a Series enters into a mortgage "dollar roll", it will establish a
segregated account with its custodian bank in which it will maintain cash, U.S.
Government securities or other liquid high grade debt obligations equal in value
to its obligations in respect of dollar rolls, and accordingly, such dollar
rolls will not be considered borrowings. Mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk
that the market value of the securities the Series is obligated to repurchase
under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. In the event the
buyer of securities under a mortgage dollar roll files for bankruptcy or becomes
insolvent, the Series' use of proceeds of the dollar roll may be restricted
pending a determination by the other party, or its trustee or receiver, whether
to enforce the Series' obligation to repurchase the securities.
 
     COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS). A Series may invest in CMOs.
CMOs are bonds that are collateralized by whole loan mortgages or mortgage pass-
through securities. In recent years, new types of CMO structures have evolved.
These include floating rate CMOs, planned amortization classes, accrual bonds,
and CMO residuals. Under certain of these new structures, given classes of CMOs
have priority over others with respect to the receipt of prepayments on the
mortgages. Therefore, depending on the type of CMOs in which the Series invests,
the investment may be subject to a greater or lesser risk of prepayment than
other types of mortgage-related securities.
 
     The primary risk of any mortgage security is the uncertainty of the timing
of cash flows. For CMOs, the primary risk results from the rate of prepayments
on the underlying mortgages serving as collateral. An increase or decrease in
prepayment rates (resulting primarily from a decrease or increase in mortgage
interest rates) will affect the yield, average life, and price of CMOs. The
prices of certain CMOs, depending on their structure and the rate of
prepayments, can be volatile. Some CMOs may also not be as liquid as other
securities.
 
     REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS ("REITS"). The REITs in which a Series may
invest include equity REITs, which own real estate properties, and mortgage
REITs, which make construction, development and long-term mortgage loans. The
value of an equity REIT may be affected by changes in the value of the
underlying property, while a mortgage REIT may be affected by the quality of the
credit extended. The performance of both types of REITs depends upon conditions
in the real estate industry, management skills and the amount of cash flow. The
risks associated with REITs include defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation,
failure to qualify as a "pass-through" entity under the Federal tax law, failure
to qualify as an exempt entity under the 1940 Act, and the fact that REITs are
not diversified.
 
     PORTFOLIO TURNOVER. To a limited extent, a Series may engage in short-term
transactions if such transactions further its investment objective. A Series may
sell one security and simultaneously purchase another of comparable quality or
simultaneously purchase and sell the same security to take advantage of
short-term differentials in bond yields or otherwise purchase individual
securities in anticipation of relatively short-term price gains. The rate of
portfolio turnover will not be a determining factor in the purchase and sale of
such securities. However, certain tax rules may restrict the Series' ability to
sell securities in some circumstances when the security has been held for less
than three months. Increased portfolio turnover necessarily results in
correspondingly higher costs including brokerage commissions, dealer mark-ups
and other transaction costs on the sale of securities and reinvestment in other
securities, and may result in the acceleration of taxable gains.
 
     REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS AND REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. A Series may
invest in repurchase or reverse repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement
involves the purchase of a security by a Series and a simultaneous agreement
(generally by a bank or dealer) to repurchase
 
                                       26
<PAGE>   68
 
that security from the Series at a specified price and date or upon demand. This
technique offers a method of earning income on idle cash. The repurchase
agreement is effectively secured by the value of the underlying security. A risk
associated with repurchase agreements is the failure of the seller to repurchase
the securities as agreed, which may cause a Series to suffer a loss if the
market value of such securities declines before they can be liquidated on the
open market. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, a Series
may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the underlying security.
 
     When a Series invests in a reverse repurchase agreement, it sells a
portfolio security to another party, such as a bank or a broker-dealer, in
return for cash, and agrees to buy the security back at a future date and price.
Reverse repurchase agreements may be used to provide cash to satisfy unusually
heavy redemption requests or for other temporary or emergency purposes without
the necessity of selling portfolio securities or to earn additional income on
portfolio securities, such as Treasury bills and notes.
 
     SHORT SALES. Each Series may sell securities "short against the box." While
a short sale is the sale of a security the Series does not own, it is "against
the box" if at all times when the short position is open the Series owns an
equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable
without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the
securities sold short.
 
     U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES AND CUSTODIAL RECEIPTS. Obligations issued or
guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities include Treasury bills, notes and bonds and Government
National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") certificates which are supported by the
full faith and credit of the United States; others, such as those of the Federal
Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the
Treasury; others, such as those of the Federal National Mortgage Association
("FNMA"), are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to
purchase the agency's obligations; and still others, such as those of the
Student Loan Marketing Association, are supported only by the credit of the
instrumentality. No assurance can be given that the U.S. Government will provide
financial support to U.S. Government agencies or instrumentalities in the
future, other than as set forth above, since it is not obligated to do so by
law.
 
     WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES. A Series may purchase securities on a when-issued,
delayed delivery or forward commitment basis. Actual payment for and delivery of
such securities does not take place until some time in the future -- i.e.,
beyond normal settlement. The Series does not earn interest on such securities
until settlement and bears the risk of market value fluctuations during the
period between the purchase and settlement dates. The series segregate and
maintain at all times cash, cash equivalents, or other high quality liquid debt
securities in an amount at least equal to the amount of outstanding commitments
for when-issued securities.
 
     ZERO COUPON AND PAY-IN-KIND BONDS. A Series may invest up to 10% of its
assets in zero coupon bonds or strips. Zero coupon bonds do not make regular
interest payments; rather, they are sold at a discount from face value.
Principal and accreted discount (representing interest accrued but not paid) are
paid at maturity. Strips are debt securities that are stripped of their interest
after the securities are issued, but otherwise are comparable to zero coupon
bonds. The market value of strips and zero coupon bonds generally fluctuates in
response to changes in interest rates to a greater degree than interest-paying
securities of comparable term and quality. A Series may also purchase
pay-in-kind bonds. Pay-in-kind bonds pay all or a portion of their interest in
the form of debt or equity securities.
 
     Zero coupon and pay-in-kind bonds tend to be subject to greater price
fluctuations in response to changes in interest rates than are ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. The value of zero
coupon securities appreciates more during periods of declining interest rates
and depreciates more during periods of rising interest rates than ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. Zero coupon securities
and pay-in-kind bonds may be issued by a wide variety of corporate and
governmental issuers.
 
     Current federal income tax law requires the holder of a zero coupon
security, certain pay-in-kind bonds and certain other securities acquired at a
discount (such as Brady Bonds) to accrue income with respect to these securities
prior to the receipt of cash payments. Accordingly, to avoid liability for
federal income and excise taxes, a Series may be required to distribute income
accrued with respect to these securities and may have to dispose of portfolio
securities under disadvantageous circumstances in order to generate cash to
satisfy these distribution requirements.
 
INVESTMENT RISKS
 
  FOREIGN SECURITIES
 
     Investments in foreign securities, including those of foreign governments,
involve risks that are different in some respects from investments in securities
of U.S. issuers, such as the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currencies
in which they are denominated, a heightened risk of adverse political and
economic developments and, with respect to certain countries, the possibility of
expropriation, nationalization or confiscatory taxation or limitations
 
                                       27
<PAGE>   69
 
on the removal of funds or other assets of a Series. Securities of some foreign
issuers in many cases are less liquid and more volatile than securities of
comparable domestic issuers. There also may be less publicly available
information about foreign issuers than domestic issuers, and foreign issuers
generally are not subject to the uniform accounting, auditing and financial
reporting standards, practices and requirements applicable to domestic issuers.
Certain markets may require payment for securities before delivery. A Series may
have limited legal recourse against the issuer in the event of a default on a
debt instrument. Delays may be encountered in settling securities transactions
in certain foreign markets and a Series will incur costs in converting foreign
currencies into U.S. dollars. Bank custody charges are generally higher for
foreign securities. The JNL Global Equities, Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond,
and T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series are particularly
susceptible to such risks. ADRs do not involve the same direct currency and
liquidity risks as foreign securities.
 
     The considerations noted above may be intensified in the case of
investments in developing countries or countries with limited or developing
capital markets. In particular, developing countries may have relatively
unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries, and securities
markets that trade a small number of securities. Securities of issuers located
in developing countries may have limited marketability and may be subject to
more abrupt or erratic price fluctuations.
 
     At times, securities held by a Series may be listed on foreign exchanges or
traded in foreign markets which are open on days (such as Saturday) when a
Series does not compute its price or accept orders for the purchase, redemption
or exchange of its shares. As a result, the net asset value of a Series may be
significantly affected by trading on days when shareholders cannot make
transactions.
 
     The share price of a Series that invests in foreign securities will reflect
the movements of both the prices of the portfolio securities and the currencies
in which such securities are denominated. A Series' foreign investments may
cause changes in a Series' share price that have a low correlation with movement
in the U.S. markets. Because most of the foreign securities in which a Series
invests will be denominated in foreign currencies, or otherwise will have values
that depend on the performance of foreign currencies relative to the U.S.
dollar, the relative strength of the U.S. dollar may be an important factor in
the performance of a Series, depending on the extent of the Series' foreign
investments.
 
     A Series may employ certain strategies in order to manage exchange rate
risks. For example, a Series may hedge some or all of its investments
denominated in or exposed to a foreign currency against a decline in the value
of that currency. A Series may enter into contracts to sell that foreign
currency for U. S. dollars (not exceeding the value of a Series' assets
denominated in or exposed to that currency) or by participating in options or
futures contracts with respect to such currency ("position hedge"). A Series
could also hedge that position by selling a second currency, which is expected
to perform similarly to the currency in which portfolio investments are
denominated, for U.S. dollars ("proxy hedge"). A Series may also enter into a
forward contract to sell the currency in which the security is denominated for a
second currency that is expected to perform better relative to the U.S. dollar
if the sub-adviser believes there is a reasonable degree of correlation between
movements in the two currencies ("cross hedge"). In addition, when a Series
anticipates purchasing securities denominated in or exposed to a particular
currency, the Series may enter into a forward contract to purchase or sell such
currency in exchange for the dollar or another currency ("anticipatory hedge").
 
     These strategies minimize the effect of currency appreciation as well as
depreciation, but do not protect against a decline in the underlying value of
the hedged security. In addition, such strategies may reduce or eliminate the
opportunity to profit from increases in the value of the original currency and
may adversely impact a Series' performance if the sub-adviser's projection of
future exchange rates is inaccurate.
 
  FUTURES, OPTIONS AND OTHER DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
     The use of futures, options, forward contracts, and swaps ("derivative
instruments") exposes a Series to additional investment risks and transaction
costs. If a sub-adviser seeks to protect a Series against potential adverse
movements in the securities, foreign currency or interest rate markets using
these instruments, and such markets do not move in a direction adverse to the
Series, that Series could be left in a less favorable position than if such
strategies had not been used. Risks inherent in the use of futures, options,
forward contracts and swaps include (1) the risk that interest rates, securities
prices and currency markets will not move in the directions anticipated; (2)
imperfect correlation between the price of derivative instruments and movements
in the prices of the securities, interest rates or currencies being hedged; (3)
the fact that skills needed to use these strategies are different from those
needed to select portfolio securities; (4) the possible absence of a liquid
secondary market for any particular instrument at any time; and (5) the possible
need to defer closing out certain hedged positions to avoid adverse tax
consequences.
 
                                       28
<PAGE>   70
 
  HIGH YIELD/HIGH RISK BONDS
 
     Lower rated bonds involve a higher degree of credit risk, which is the risk
that the issuer will not make interest or principal payments when due. In the
event of an unanticipated default, a Series would experience a reduction in its
income, a decline in the market value of the securities so affected and a
decline in the value of its shares. More careful analysis of the financial
condition of issuers of lower rated securities is therefore necessary. During an
economic downturn or substantial period of rising interest rates, highly
leveraged issuers may experience financial stress which could adversely affect
their ability to service principal and interest payment obligations, to meet
projected business goals and to obtain additional financing.
 
     The market prices of lower rated securities are generally less sensitive to
interest rate changes than higher rated investments, but more sensitive to
adverse economic or political changes, or individual developments specific to
the issuer. Periods of economic or political uncertainty and change can be
expected to result in volatility of prices of these securities. Since the last
major economic recession, there has been a substantial increase in the use of
high-yield debt securities to fund highly leveraged corporate acquisitions and
restructurings, so past experience with high-yield securities in a prolonged
economic downturn may not provide an accurate indication of future performance
during such periods. Lower rated securities also may have less liquid markets
than higher rated securities, and their liquidity as well as their value may be
more severely affected by adverse economic conditions. Many high-yield bonds do
not trade frequently. When they do trade, their price may be substantially
higher or lower than had been expected. A lack of liquidity also means that
judgment may play a bigger role in valuing the securities. Adverse publicity and
investor perceptions as well as new or proposed laws may also have a greater
negative impact on the market for lower rated bonds.
 
     A Series may also invest in unrated debt securities of foreign and domestic
issuers. Unrated debt, while not necessarily of lower quality than rated
securities, may not have as broad a market. Sovereign debt of foreign
governments is generally rated by country, because these ratings do not take
into account individual factors relevant to each issue and may not be updated
regularly. Because of the size and perceived demand of the issue, among other
factors, certain municipalities may not incur the costs of obtaining a rating.
The sub-adviser will analyze the credit- worthiness of the issuer, as well as
any financial institution or other party responsible for payments on the
security, in determining whether to purchase unrated municipal bonds. (See
Appendix A for a description of bond rating categories).
 
  HIGH YIELD FOREIGN SOVEREIGN DEBT SECURITIES
 
     Investing in fixed and floating rate high yield foreign sovereign debt
securities will expose the Series investing in such securities to the direct or
indirect consequences of political, social or economic changes in the countries
that issue the securities. (See "Foreign Securities"). The ability and
willingness of sovereign obligors in developing and emerging market countries or
the governmental authorities that control repayment of their external debt to
pay principal and interest on such debt when due may depend on general economic
and political conditions within the relevant country. Countries such as those in
which a Series may invest have historically experienced, and may continue to
experience, high rates of inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate trade
difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment. Many of these countries are
also characterized by political uncertainty or instability. Additional factors
which may influence the ability or willingness to service debt include, but are
not limited to, a country's cash flow situation, the availability of sufficient
foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of its debt
service burden to the economy as a whole, and its government's policy towards
the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other international
agencies.
 
  HYBRID INSTRUMENTS
 
     The risks of investing in hybrid instruments reflect a combination of the
risks of investing in securities, options, futures and currencies, including
volatility and lack of liquidity. Reference is made to the discussion of
futures, options, and forward contracts herein for a discussion of these risks.
Further, the prices of the hybrid instrument and the related commodity or
currency may not move in the same direction or at the same time. Hybrid
instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or
even relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear
interest at above market rates but bear an increased risk of principal loss. In
addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid instruments could take place
in an over-the-counter or in a private transaction between the Series and the
seller of the hybrid instrument, the creditworthiness of the counter-party to
the transaction would be a risk factor which the Series would have to consider.
Hybrid instruments also may not be subject to regulation of the CFTC, which
generally regulates the trading of commodity futures by U.S. persons, the SEC,
which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any
other governmental regulatory authority.
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   71
 
  MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
 
     In addition to the usual risks associated with income investing, the value
of municipal obligations can be affected by changes in the actual or perceived
credit quality of municipal obligations held by a Series. The credit quality of
a municipal obligation can be affected by, among other factors, the financial
condition of the issuer or guarantor, the issuer's future borrowing plans and
sources of revenue, the economic feasibility of the revenue bond project or
general borrowing purpose, political or economic developments in the region
where the security is issued, and the liquidity of the security. Because
municipal obligations are generally traded over-the-counter, the liquidity of a
particular issue often depends on the willingness of dealers to make a market in
the security. The liquidity of some municipal issues may be enhanced by demand
features, which enable a Series to demand payment on short notice from the
issuer or a financial intermediary.
 
  WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES
 
     The price of such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is
fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment
take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date occurs within 90 days
of the purchase for when-issued securities, but may be substantially longer for
forward commitments. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by the Series to the issuer and no interest accrues to the
Series. The purchase of these securities will result in a loss if their value
declines prior to the settlement date. This could occur, for example, if
interest rates increase prior to settlement. The longer the period between
purchase and settlement, the greater the risks. At the time the Series makes the
commitment to purchase these securities, it will record the transaction and
reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset value. The Series
will segregate for these securities by maintaining cash and/or liquid debt
securities with its custodian bank equal in value to commitments for them during
the time between the purchase and the settlement. Therefore, the longer this
period, the longer the period during which alternative investment options are
not available to the Series (to the extent of the securities used for cover).
Such securities either will mature or, if necessary, be sold on or before the
settlement date.
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   72
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
     Under Massachusetts law and the Trust's Declaration of Trust and By-Laws,
the management of the business and affairs of the Trust is the responsibility of
the Trustees.
 
     JNFSI, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan 48911, is the investment
adviser of each Series and provides each Series with professional investment
supervision and management. JNFSI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Jackson
National Life Insurance Company, which is in turn wholly owned by Prudential
Corporation plc, the largest life insurance company in the United Kingdom. JNFSI
has been providing investment advisory services to management investment
companies since 1992 and as of December 31, 1996, had approximately $1 billion
under management.
 
     JNFSI provides preparation of financial statements, tax services, and
regulatory reports to the Trust. JNFSI also selects, contracts with and
compensates sub-advisers to manage the investment and reinvestment of the
assets of the Series of the Trust. JNFSI monitors the compliance of such
sub-advisers with the investment objectives and related policies of each Series
and reviews the performance of such sub-advisers and reports periodically on
such performance to the Trustees of the Trust.
 
     As compensation for its services, JNFSI receives a fee from the Trust
computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as an
annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of the Series. The
fees, which are accrued daily and payable monthly, are calculated on the basis
of the average of all valuations of net assets of each Series made at the close
of business on each business day of the Trust during the period for which such
fees are paid through the date of calculation. Once the average net assets of a
Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is reduced with respect to such excess.
The following is a schedule of the fees each Series currently is obligated to
pay JNFSI.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $50 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M -- MILLION)                                                 $50 M    $150 M    $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- ---------------                                                 -----    ------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%    1.00%       .95%       .90%      .90%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%    .975%      .975%       .95%      .90%
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series................................     .90%     .85%       .85%       .75%      .75%
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series............................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .85%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series*...................................     .90%     .90%       .85%       .80%      .80%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series**............................     .90%     .90%       .85%       .80%      .80%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series***..........................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%     .60%      .575%       .55%     .525%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%     .70%       .65%       .60%      .55%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .80%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%    1.05%      1.00%       .95%      .90%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .90%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
  * Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was .90%,
    .85%, .80%, .75%, and .70%, respectively.
 
 ** Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series was
    .75%, .70%, .675%, .65% and .625%, respectively.
 
*** Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was
    .90%, .80%, .75%, .70% and .65%, respectively.
 
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISERS
     The organizations described below act as sub-advisers to the Trust and
certain of its Series pursuant to Sub-Advisory Agreements with JNFSI. Under the
Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-advisers manage the investment and reinvestment
of the assets of the respective Series for which they are responsible. Each of
the sub-advisers discharges its responsibilities subject to the policies of the
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   73
 
Trustees and the oversight and supervision of JNFSI, which pays the             
sub-advisers' fees.
 
     Fred Alger Management, Inc., ("Alger Management") which is located at 75
Maiden Lane, New York, New York 10038, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Alger
Growth Series. Alger Management is generally engaged in the business of
rendering investment advisory services to institutions and, to a lesser extent,
individuals. Alger Management has been engaged in the business of rendering
investment advisory services since 1964 and, as of December 31, 1996, had
approximately $7.1 billion under management, $5.2 billion in mutual fund
accounts and $1.9 billion in other advisory accounts. Alger Management is a
wholly owned subsidiary of Fred Alger & Company, Inc. which in turn is a wholly
owned subsidiary of Alger Associates, Inc., a financial services holding
company. Fred M. Alger III and his brother, David D. Alger are majority
shareholders of Alger Associates, Inc. and may be deemed to control that
company and its subsidiaries.
 
     Eagle Asset Management, Inc. ("Eagle"), 880 Carillion Parkway, St.
Petersburg, Florida 33716, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Eagle Core Equity
Series and the JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series. Eagle is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Raymond James Financial, Inc., which, together with its
subsidiaries, provides a wide range of financial services to retail and
institutional clients. Eagle manages client accounts with net assets totaling
approximately $2.7 billion as of December 31, 1996.
 
     Janus Capital Corporation ("Janus Capital"), a Colorado corporation with
principal offices at 100 Fillmore Street, Denver, Colorado 80206, serves as
sub-adviser to the JNL Capital Growth Series, the JNL Aggressive Growth Series
and the JNL Global Equities Series. Janus Capital is an investment adviser with
approximately $50 billion in assets under management. Kansas City Southern
Industries, Inc. ("KCSI") owns approximately 83% of the outstanding voting stock
of Janus Capital, most of which it acquired in 1984. KCSI is a publicly-traded
holding company whose primary subsidiaries are engaged in transportation and
financial services. Thomas H. Bailey, President and Chairman of the Board of
Janus Capital, owns approximately 12% of its voting stock and, by agreement with
KCSI, selects a majority of Janus Capital's Board.
 
     PPM America, Inc. ("PPM"), which is located at 225 West Wacker Drive,
Chicago, Illinois 60606, serves as sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL Balanced
Series* and the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series. PPM, an affiliate of JNFSI,
is a wholly owned subsidiary of Prudential Portfolio Managers Ltd., ("PPM Ltd.")
an investment management company engaged in global money management, which is in
turn wholly owned by Prudential Corporation plc. PPM Ltd. and its subsidiaries
manage over $120 billion in various currencies and markets. PPM currently
manages over $26 billion of Jackson National Life Insurance Company assets.
Additionally, PPM manages assets of over $5.7 billion for other affiliated
companies and over $878 million for non-affiliated entities.
 
     Putnam Investment Management, Inc. ("Putnam"), located at One Post Office
Square, Boston, Massachusetts 02109, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Putnam
Growth Series* and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series*. Putnam has been managing
mutual funds since 1937. Putnam and its affiliates had approximately $173
billion in assets under management as of December 31, 1996. Putnam is a
subsidiary of Putnam Investment, Inc., which is wholly owned by Marsh & McLennan
Companies, Inc., a publicly-owned holding company whose principal businesses are
international insurance and reinsurance brokerage, employee benefit consulting
and investment management.
 
     Rowe Price-Fleming International, Inc. ("Price-Fleming"), located at 100
East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T.
Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series. Price-Fleming was founded
in 1979 as a joint venture between T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and Robert
Fleming Holdings Limited. Price-Fleming is one of America's largest
international mutual fund asset managers with approximately $18 billion under
management in its offices in Baltimore, London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore.
 
     Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc ("SBAM") serves as sub-adviser to the
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S.
Government & Quality Bond Series. SBAM is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary
of Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. which is, in turn, wholly owned by
Salomon Inc. ("SI"). SBAM was incorporated in 1987, and, together with
affiliates in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and Hong Kong, SBAM provides a broad
range of fixed income and equity investment advisory services to various
individual and institutional clients located throughout the world and serves as
sub-advisor to various investment companies. In providing such investment
advisory services, SBAM has access to SI's more than 400 economists, mortgage
bond, sovereign and equity analysts. As of December 31, 1996, SBAM and its
worldwide investment affiliates managed approximately $17.8 billion. SBAM's
 
- ---------------
 
    *Prior to May 1, 1997, Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. served as
sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and the JNL/Putnam Growth
Series, and PPM served as sub-adviser to the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series.
 
                                       32
<PAGE>   74
 
business offices are located at 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048.
 
     In connection with SBAM's service as sub-adviser to the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series, SBAM Limited, whose business address is
Victoria Plaza, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W OSB, England, provides
certain sub-advisory services to SBAM relating to currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the benefit of the
Series. SBAM Limited is compensated by SBAM at no additional expense to the
Trust. Like SBAM, SBAM Limited is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of
Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. SBAM Limited is a member of the Investment
Management Regulatory Organization Limited in the United Kingdom and is
registered as an investment adviser in the United States pursuant to the
Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
 
     T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("T. Rowe"), located at 100 East Pratt
Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series and the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth
Series. T. Rowe was founded in 1937 by the late Thomas Rowe Price, Jr. T. Rowe
and its affiliates manage over $95 billion for approximately 4.5 million
individual and institutional investor accounts, including limited and real
estate partnerships and other mutual funds.
 
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
 
     The following individuals are primarily responsible for the day-to-day
management of the particular Series as indicated below.
 
JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
     Helen Young Hayes is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Global Equities Series. Ms. Hayes joined Janus Capital in 1987. She holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
     James P. Goff is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Capital Growth Series. Mr. Goff joined Janus Capital in 1988. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
     Warren B. Lammert is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Aggressive Growth Series. Mr. Lammert joined Janus Capital in 1987. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and a Master of Science in
Economic History from the London School of Economics. He is a Chartered
Financial Analyst.
 
JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
 
     David D. Alger, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alger
Management, is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the
JNL/Alger Growth Series. He has been employed by Alger Management as Executive
Vice President and Director of Research since 1971 and he serves as portfolio
manager for other mutual funds and investment accounts managed by Alger
Management. Also participating in the management of the Series are Ronald
Tartaro and Seilai Khoo. Mr. Tartaro has been employed by Alger Management
since 1990 and he serves as a senior research analyst. Prior to 1990, he was a
member of the technical staff at AT&T Bell Laboratories. Ms. Khoo has been
employed by Alger Management since 1989 and she serves as a senior research
analyst.
 
JNL/EAGLE CORE EQUITY SERIES
 
     In its capacity as sub-adviser, Eagle supervises and manages the investment
portfolio of the JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series. Eagle utilizes a team of senior
portfolio managers acting together to manage the assets of the Series. The team
meets regularly to review portfolio holdings and to discuss purchase and sale
activity. The team adjusts holdings in the portfolio as it deems appropriate in
the pursuit of the Series' investment objective.
 
JNL/EAGLE SMALLCAP EQUITY SERIES
 
     Bert L. Boksen, Senior Vice President and Portfolio Manager of Eagle, is
responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity
Series. Mr. Boksen joined Eagle in April 1995 and has portfolio management
responsibilities for its small cap equity accounts. Prior to joining Eagle, Mr.
Boksen was employed for 16 years by Raymond James & Associates, Inc. in its
institutional research and sales department. While employed by Raymond James &
Associates, Inc., Mr. Boksen served as co-head of Research, Chief Investment
Officer and Chairman of the Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Focus List
Committee.
 
JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES
 
     Carol C. McMullen has responsibility for the day-to-day management of the
JNL/Putnam Growth Series. Ms. McMullen has been a Managing Director of Putnam
since 1995. Prior to joining Putnam, Ms. McMullen was Senior Vice President of
Baring Asset Management. Ms. McMullen has had responsibility for the day-to-day
 
                                       33
<PAGE>   75
 
management of the JNL/Putnam Growth Series since May 1, 1997.
 
JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES
 
     Anthony I. Kreisel a Managing Director of Putnam, has responsibility for
the day-to-day management of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series. Mr. Kreisel has
been an investment professional at Putnam since 1986. Mr. Kreisel has had
responsibility for the day-to-day management of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity
Series since May 1, 1997.
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
 
     In its capacity as sub-adviser, PPM supervises and manages the investment
portfolios of the PPM America/ JNL Balanced Series and the PPM America/JNL Money
Market Series and directs the purchase and sale of each Series' investment
securities. PPM utilizes teams of investment professionals acting together to
manage the assets of the Series. The teams meet regularly to review portfolio
holdings and to discuss purchase and sale activity. The teams adjust holdings in
the portfolios as they deem appropriate in the pursuit of the Series' investment
objectives. PPM has supervised and managed the investment portfolio of the PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series since May 1, 1997, and has supervised and managed
the investment portfolio of the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series since the
commencement of operations of the Series.
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
 
     Steven Guterman is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series and the mortgage-
backed securities and U.S. Government securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Guterman co-manages the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series with Roger Lavan.
 
     Mr. Guterman, who joined SBAM in 1990, is a Managing Director of Salomon
Brothers Inc and a Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager of SBAM,
responsible for SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios which
invest primarily in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government issues. Mr.
Guterman also serves as portfolio manager for two offshore mortgage funds and a
number of institutional clients. Mr. Guterman joined Salomon Brothers Inc in
1983, working initially in the mortgage research group where he became a
Research Director and later traded derivative mortgage-backed securities.
 
     Mr. Lavan joined SBAM in 1990 and is a Portfolio Manager and Quantitative
Fixed Income Analyst, responsible for working for senior portfolio managers to
monitor and analyze market relationships and identify and implement relative
value transactions in SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios
which invest in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government securities. Prior
to joining SBAM, Mr. Lavan spent four years analyzing portfolios for Salomon
Brothers Inc's Fixed Income Sales Group and Product Support Divisions.
 
     Peter J. Wilby is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the high yield and emerging market debt securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Beth Semmel assists Mr. Wilby in the day-to-day
management of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Wilby, who joined
SBAM in 1989, is a Managing Director of Salomon Brothers Inc and SBAM and Senior
Portfolio Manager of SBAM, responsible for investment company and institutional
portfolios which invest in high yield non-U.S. and U.S. corporate debt
securities and high yield foreign sovereign debt securities. From 1984 to 1989,
Mr. Wilby was employed by Prudential Capital Management Group ("Prudential")
where he served as Director of Prudential's credit research unit and as a
corporate and sovereign credit analyst with Prudential. Mr. Wilby also managed
high yield bonds and leveraged equities in the mutual funds and institutional
portfolios at Prudential. Ms. Semmel is a Director and Portfolio Manager of SBAM
and a Director of Salomon Brothers Inc. Ms. Semmel joined SBAM in May of 1993,
where she manages high yield portfolios. Prior to joining SBAM, Ms. Semmel spent
four years as a high yield bond analyst at Morgan Stanley Asset Management.
 
     David J. Scott is primarily responsible for currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Prior to joining SBAM Limited in April 1994,
Mr. Scott worked for four years at JP Morgan Investment Management ("JP Morgan")
where he was responsible for global and non-dollar portfolios for clients
including departments of various governments, pension funds and insurance
companies. Before joining JP Morgan, Mr. Scott worked for three years at Mercury
Asset Management where he was responsible for captive insurance portfolios and
products.
 
                                       34
<PAGE>   76
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
     Robert W. Smith is responsible for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series. Mr. Smith is a Vice President and Equity
Portfolio Manager for T. Rowe and Price-Fleming. He is also responsible for the
North American component of other investment company and institutional client
portfolios. Prior to joining T. Rowe in 1992, Mr. Smith was employed as an
Investment Analyst for Massachusetts Financial Services. He earned a BS (finance
and economics) from the University of Delaware and an MBA (finance) from the
Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, University of Virginia. Mr.
Smith has had responsibility for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series since February 21, 1997.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series has an
investment advisory group that has day-to-day responsibility for managing the
Series and developing and executing the Series' investment program. The Series'
advisory group is composed of the following members: Martin G. Wade, Christopher
D. Alderson, Peter B. Askew, Mark J.T. Edward, John R. Ford, James B.M. Seddon,
Benedict R.F. Thomas, and David J.J. Warren.
 
     Martin Wade joined Price-Fleming in 1979 and has 26 years of experience
with the Fleming Group in research, client service, and investment management.
(Fleming Group includes Robert Fleming and/or Jardine Fleming Group Limited).
Christopher Alderson joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has nine years of
experience with the Fleming Group in research and portfolio management. Peter
Askew joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has 20 years of experience managing
multi-currency fixed income portfolios. Mark Edwards joined Price-Fleming in
1986 and has 14 years of experience in financial analysis. John Ford joined
Price-Fleming in 1982 and has 15 years of experience with the Fleming Group in
research and portfolio management. James Seddon joined Price-Fleming in 1987 and
has eight years of experience in investment management. Benedict Thomas joined
Price-Fleming in 1988 and has six years of portfolio management experience.
David Warren joined Price-Fleming in 1984 and has 15 years of experience in
equity research, fixed income research and portfolio management.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series has an Investment Advisory
Committee composed of the following members: Brian W. Berghuis, Chairman, James
A.C. Kennedy, and John F. Wakeman. The Committee Chairman has day to day
responsibility for managing the Series and works with the Committee in
developing and executing the Series' investment program. Mr. Berghuis has been
managing investments since joining T. Rowe in 1985.
 
SUB-ADVISORY ARRANGEMENTS
 
     Under the terms of each of the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-adviser
manages the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the assigned Series,
subject to the supervision of the Trustees of the Trust. The sub-adviser
formulates a continuous investment program for each such Series consistent with
its investment objectives and policies outlined in this Prospectus. Each
sub-adviser implements such programs by purchases and sales of securities and
regularly reports to JNFSI and the Trustees of the Trust with respect to the
implementation of such programs.
 
     As compensation for their services, the sub-advisers receive fees from
JNFSI computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as
an annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of such Series. The
fees are calculated on the basis of the average of all valuations of net assets
of each Series made at the close of business on each business day of the Trust
during the period for which such fees are paid through the date of calculation.
Once the average net assets of a Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is
reduced with respect to such excess. The following is a schedule of the
management fees JNFSI currently is obligated to pay the sub-advisers out of the
advisory fee it receives from each Series as specified above:
 
                                       35
<PAGE>   77
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           $0 TO    $50 TO    $100 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M - MILLION)                                             $50 M    $100 M    $150 M     $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- --------------                                             -----    ------    -------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                        <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series*..........................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Capital Growth Series*.............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Global Equities Series*............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................     .55%      .55%       .55%       .55%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series...........................     .45%      .40%       .40%       .40%      .30%       .30%
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series.......................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .45%       .40%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series**.............................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .35%       .35%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series***......................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .35%       .35%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series**......................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................     .20%      .15%       .15%      .125%      .10%      .075%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................    .375%      .35%       .35%       .30%      .30%       .25%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................    .225%     .225%      .225%      .175%      .15%       .10%
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $20 TO    $50 TO
                                                                $20 M    $50 M     $200 M      $200 M+
                                                                -----    ------    ------      -------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>         <C>
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .45%      .40%     .40%****     .40%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     .75%      .60%     .50%         .50%****
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .60%      .50%     .50%****     .50%
</TABLE>
 
   * Prior to September 16, 1996, the sub-advisory fees payable to Janus for
     these Series were: $0 to $50 million -- .60%; $50 to $150 million -- .55%;
     $150 to $300 million -- .45%; $300 to $500 million -- .40%; over $500
     million -- .40%.
 
  ** Prior to May 1, 1997, the sub-advisory fees for these Series were payable
     to Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. and were: $0 to $50 million -- .50%;
     $50 to $150 million -- .40%; $150 to $300 million -- .30%; $300 to $500
     million -- .25%; over $500 million -- .20%.
 
 *** Prior to May 1, 1997, the sub-advisory fee for this Series was payable to
     PPM and was: $0 to $50 million -- .25%; $50 to $150 million -- .20%; $150
     to $300 million -- .175%; $300 to $500 million -- .15%; over $500 million
     -- .125%.
 
**** When average assets exceed this amount, the sub-advisory fee asterisked is
     applicable to all amounts in this Series.
 
     With respect to the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and in
connection with the advisory consulting agreement between Salomon Brothers and
SBAM Limited, Salomon Brothers will pay SBAM Limited, as full compensation for
all services provided under the advisory consulting agreement, a portion of its
investment management fee. The amount payable to SBAM Limited will be equal to
the fee payable under Salomon Brothers' sub-advisory agreement multiplied by the
portion of the assets of the Series that SBAM Limited has been delegated to
manage divided by the current value of the net assets of the Series.
 
OTHER TRUST EXPENSES
 
     In addition to the investment advisory fee, the Trust incurs expenses,
including legal, auditing and accounting expenses, Trustees' fees and expenses,
insurance premiums, brokers' commissions, taxes and governmental fees, expenses
of issue or redemption of shares, expenses of registering or qualifying shares
for sale, reports and notices to shareholders, and fees and disbursements of
custodians, transfer agents, registrars, shareholder servicing agents and
dividend disbursing agents, and certain expenses with respect to membership fees
of industry associations.
 
                                       36
<PAGE>   78
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company purchases the shares of the Series at their net asset
value using premiums received on Policies issued by Accounts. These Accounts are
funded by shares of the Trust. There is no sales charge. All shares are sold at
net asset value.
 
     The net asset value per share of each Series is determined at the close of
regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern
time) each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open. The net asset value per
share is calculated by adding the value of all securities and other assets of a
Series, deducting its liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares
outstanding.
 
     Shares of the Trust are currently sold primarily to separate accounts of
Jackson National Life Insurance Company, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan
48911 to fund the benefits under variable insurance or annuity Policies.
Further, it is anticipated that shares of the Trust will be sold to certain
qualified retirement plans.
 
     All investments in the Trust are credited to the shareholder's account in
the form of full and fractional shares of the designated Series (rounded to the
nearest 1/1000 of a share). The Trust does not issue share certificates.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                SHARE REDEMPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company separate account redeems shares to make benefit or
surrender payments under the terms of its Policies. Redemptions are processed on
any day on which the Trust is open for business and are effected at net asset
value next determined after the redemption order, in proper form, is received by
the Trust's transfer agent.
 
     The Trust may suspend the right of redemption only under the following
unusual circumstances:
 
     - when the New York Stock Exchange is closed (other than weekends and
       holidays) or trading is restricted;
 
     - when an emergency exists, making disposal of portfolio securities or the
       valuation of net assets not reasonably practicable; or
 
     - during any period when the SEC has by order permitted a suspension of
       redemption for the protection of shareholders.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     DESCRIPTION OF SHARES -- The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to
issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest
of each Series and to divide or combine such shares into a greater or lesser
number of shares without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial interests
in the Trust. Each share of a Series represents an equal proportional interest
in that Series with each other share. The Trust reserves the right to create a
number of different Series. In that case, the shares of each Series would
participate equally in the earnings, dividends, and assets of the particular
Series. Upon liquidation of a Series, its shareholders are entitled to share pro
rata in the net assets of such Series available for distribution to
shareholders.
 
     As of April 7, 1997, Jackson National Life Insurance Company owned 5.2% of
the outstanding shares of the Trust.
 
     SERIES TRANSACTIONS -- The Trust's portfolio transactions are executed
through brokers who are considered by the appropriate sub-adviser as able to
provide execution at the most favorable prices and in the most effective manner.
Portfolio security transactions may be executed through brokers who are
affiliated with the Trust, JNFSI or a sub-adviser. In addition, brokers may be
selected taking into account such brokers' assistance in the purchase of
variable annuity contracts funded by the Trust (although such assistance or
absence thereof is neither a qualifying nor a disqualifying factor in such
selection). See the Statement of Additional Information for more detailed
information.
 
     VOTING RIGHTS -- Except for matters affecting a particular Series, as
described below, all shares of the Trust have equal voting rights and may be
voted in the election of Trustees and on other matters submitted to the vote of
the shareholders. Shareholders' meetings ordinarily
 
                                       37
<PAGE>   79
 
will not be held unless required by the 1940 Act. As permitted by Massachusetts
law, there normally will be no shareholders' meetings for the purpose of
electing Trustees unless and until such time as fewer than a majority of the
Trustees holding office have been elected by shareholders. At that time, the
Trustees then in office will call a shareholders' meeting for the election of
Trustees. The Trustees must call a meeting of shareholders for the purpose of
voting upon the removal of any Trustee when requested to do so by the record
holders of 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. A Trustee may be removed
after the holders of record of not less than two-thirds of the outstanding
shares have declared that the Trustee be removed either by declaration in
writing or by votes cast in person or by proxy. Except as set forth above, the
Trustees shall continue to hold office and may appoint successor Trustees,
provided that immediately after the appointment of any successor Trustee, at
least two-thirds of the Trustees have been elected by the shareholders. Shares
do not have cumulative voting rights. Thus, holders of a majority of the shares
voting for the election of Trustees can elect all the Trustees. No amendment may
be made to the Declaration of Trust without the affirmative vote of a majority
of the outstanding shares of the Trust, except that amendments to conform the
Declaration to the requirements of applicable federal laws or regulations or the
regulated investment company provisions of the Code may be made by the Trustees
without the vote or consent of shareholders. If not terminated by the vote or
written consent of a majority of its outstanding shares, the Trust will continue
indefinitely.
 
     In matters affecting only a particular Series, the matter shall have been
effectively acted upon by a majority vote of that Series even though: (1) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of any other Series; or (2) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of the Trust.
 
     Shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the
Trust. The risk of a shareholder incurring any financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself
would be unable to meet its obligations. The Declaration of Trust contains an
express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust
and provides that notice of the disclaimer must be given in each agreement,
obligation or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or Trustees. The
Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of any shareholder held
personally liable for the obligations of the Trust and also provides for the
Trust to reimburse the shareholder for all legal and other expenses reasonably
incurred in connection with any such claim or liability.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust may from time to time advertise several types of historical
performance for the Series. The performance advertised will be based on
historical results and is not intended to indicate future performance. The
performance figures advertised for a Series may or may not reflect the effect of
any charges that are imposed under a variable annuity or variable life contract
that is funded by the Trust. Such charges, described in the variable annuity or
variable life prospectus, will have the effect of reducing the performance
described below.
 
     Each Series may advertise standardized average annual total return,
calculated in a manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
non-standardized total return. Standardized average annual total return will
show the percentage rate of return of a hypothetical initial investment of
$1,000 for the most recent one, five and ten year periods, or for a period
covering the time the Series has been in existence if the Series has not been in
existence for one of the prescribed periods. Because average annual total
returns tend to smooth out variations in the Series' returns, you should
recognize that they are not the same as actual year-by-year results. Non-
standardized total return may be for periods other than those required to be
presented or may otherwise differ from standardized average annual total return.
 
     Each Series may also advertise yield, and the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series may also advertise effective yield. Yield, as calculated by each Series
other than the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, refers to the annualized
income generated by an investment in the Series over a specified thirty-day
period. The yield is calculated by assuming that the income generated by the
investment during that thirty-day period is generated each thirty-day period
over a twelve-month period and is shown as a percentage of the investment.
Yield, as calculated by the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, is a measure of
the net dividend and interest income earned over a specific seven-day period
expressed as a percentage of the offering price of the Series. The yield is an
annualized figure, which means that it is assumed that the Series generates the
same level of net income over a 52-week period. Effective yield is calculated
under rules prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission and assumes a
weekly reinvestment of income earned. The effective
 
                                       38
<PAGE>   80
 
yield will be slightly higher than the yield due to this compounding effect.
Because yield accounting methods differ from the methods used for financial
reporting and tax accounting purposes, a Series' yield may not equal its
distribution rate, the income paid to a shareholder's account, or the income
reported in the Series' financial statements.
 
     The performance of the Series may be compared to the performance of other
mutual funds or mutual fund indices with similar objectives and policies as
reported by Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"), CDA Investment
Technologies, Inc. ("CDA") or Donoghue's Money Fund Report. Lipper and CDA
performance calculations are based upon changes in net asset value with all
dividends reinvested and do not include the effect of any sales charges. The
Series' performance may also be compared to that of the Consumer Price Index or
various unmanaged stock and bond indices including, but not limited to, Salomon
Brothers Broad Investment Grade Index, Lehman Brothers High Yield Index, Lehman
Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, Salomon Brothers Treasury Index, S&P MidCap 400
Index, Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index, Morgan Stanley Europe
and Australasia, Far East Equity Index, Russell 2000 Index, and S&P 500 Index.
 
     From time to time, a Series also may quote information from publications
including, but not limited to, the following: Morningstar, Inc., The Wall Street
Journal, Money Magazine, Forbes, Barron's, The New York Times, USA Today,
Institutional Investor and Registered Representative. Also, investors may want
to compare the historical returns of various investments, performance indices of
those investments or economic indicators, including but not limited to stocks,
bonds, certificates of deposit and other bank products, money market funds and
U.S. Treasury obligations. Certain of these alternative investments may offer
fixed rates of return and guaranteed principal, and may be insured. Economic
indicators may include, without limitation, indicators of market rate trends and
cost of funds, such as Federal Home Loan Bank Board 11th District Cost of Funds
Index (COFI).
 
     Each Series' shares are sold at net asset value. Each Series' returns will
fluctuate. Shares of a Series are redeemable by an investor at the then current
net asset value, which may be more or less than original cost. Additional
information concerning each Series' performance appears in the Statement of
Additional Information, and in the Trust's Annual Report to Shareholders which
may be obtained, without charge, by writing or calling the Trust.
 
     SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES -- All inquiries regarding the Trust should be
directed to the Trust at the telephone number or address shown on the cover page
of this Prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   TAX STATUS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust's policy is to meet the requirements of Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code. Each Series intends to distribute all its taxable net
investment income and capital gains to shareholders, and therefore, will not be
required to pay any federal income taxes.
 
     Each Series of the Trust is treated as a separate entity for purposes of
the regulated investment company provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and,
therefore, the assets, income, and distributions of each Series are considered
separately for purposes of determining whether or not the Series qualifies as a
regulated investment company.
 
                                       39
<PAGE>   81
 
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT
 
State Street Bank and Trust Company
1776 Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
 
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
Price Waterhouse LLP
100 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
 
LEGAL COUNSEL
 
Blazzard, Grodd & Hasenauer, P.C.
943 Post Road East
Westport, CT 06881
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.
5901 Executive Drive
Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
                                       40
<PAGE>   82
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      APPENDIX A -- RATINGS OF INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
A-1, A-2 AND PRIME-1, PRIME-2 COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
     Commercial paper rated by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group has the following
characteristics: Liquidity ratios are adequate to meet cash requirements.
Long-term senior debt is rated "A" or better. The issuer has access to at least
two additional channels of borrowing. Basic earnings and cash flow have an
upward trend with allowance made for unusual circumstances. Typically, the
issuer's industry is well established and the issuer has a strong position
within the industry. The reliability and quality of management are unquestioned.
Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determine whether the
issuer's commercial paper is rated A-1 or A-2.
 
     The ratings Prime-1 and Prime-2 are the two highest commercial paper
ratings assigned by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. Among the factors considered
by it in assigning ratings are the following: (1) evaluation of the management
of the issuer; (2) economic evaluation of the issuer's industry or industries
and an appraisal of speculative-type risks which may be inherent in certain
areas; (3) evaluation of the issuer's products in relation to competition and
customer-acceptance; (4) liquidity; (5) amount and quality of long-term debt;
(6) trend of earnings over a period of ten years; (7) financial strength of a
parent company and the relationships which exist with the issuer; and (8)
recognition by the management of obligations which may be present or may arise
as a result of public interest questions and preparations to meet such
obligations. Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determines
whether the issuer's commercial paper is rated Prime-1 or 2.
 
CORPORATE BONDS
 
  STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the higher rated issued only in small degree.
 
     A. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
 
     BBB. Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
 
     BB, B, CCC, CC, C. Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC, and C is regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest
and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. BB indicates
the lowest degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
 
     CI. The rating CI is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is
being paid.
 
     D. Debt rated D is in default, and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
 
  MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
                                       A-1
<PAGE>   83
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time.
 
     Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact, have
speculative characteristics as well.
 
     BA. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
 
     B. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
 
     CAA. Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal and
interest.
 
     CA. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in
a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
 
     C. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues
so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
 
MUNICIPAL BONDS
 
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Bonds rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differ from the higher rated issues only in small degree.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated
categories.
 
     BBB. Bonds which are rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity
to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate
protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are
more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal
for bonds in this category than for bonds in higher rated categories.
 
     Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "B" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
 
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in
fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
 
     NOTE: Moody's applies numerical modifiers, 1, 2 AND 3 in each generic
rating classification from "AA" through "B" in its corporate bond rating system.
The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its
generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the
modifier indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating
category.
 
                                       A-2
<PAGE>   84
 
PROSPECTUS
May 1, 1997
 
JNL(R) SERIES TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5901 Executive Drive - Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
     JNL Series Trust ("Trust") is an open-end management investment company
organized under the laws of Massachusetts, by a Declaration of Trust, dated June
1, 1994. The Trust currently offers shares in separate Series, each with its own
investment objective. The shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company
separate accounts to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies.
 
     JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in
common stocks of issuers of any size, including larger, well-established
companies and smaller, emerging growth companies.
 
     JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by emphasizing investments in
common stocks of medium-sized companies. Although the Series expects to
emphasize such securities, it may also invest in smaller or larger companies.
 
     JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term
growth of capital by investing primarily in common stocks of foreign and
domestic issuers of any size. This Series normally invests in issuers from at
least five different countries including the United States.
 
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term capital
appreciation by investing in a diversified, actively managed portfolio of equity
securities, primarily of companies with total market capitalization of $1
billion or greater.
 
     JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term growth
of capital. Since income is not an objective, any income generated by the
investment of this Series' assets will be incidental to its objective. It is
intended that this Series will invest primarily in the common stocks of
companies believed by the sub-adviser to have opportunity for capital growth.
 
     JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES seeks as its investment objective capital
growth, with income as a secondary objective by investing primarily in common
stocks which the sub-adviser believes to be undervalued relative to underlying
asset value or earnings potential at the time of purchase.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES seeks as its investment objective
reasonable income, long-term capital growth and preservation of capital. It is
intended that this Series will invest in common stocks and fixed income
securities, with emphasis on income-producing securities which appear to have
some potential for capital enhancement.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income; its secondary investment objective is capital
appreciation by investing in fixed income securities, with emphasis on higher-
yielding, higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES seeks as its investment objective as
high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation of capital
and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high-quality, short-term money
market instruments.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the Series will seek
capital appreciation. The Series seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in
a globally diverse portfolio of fixed income investments and by giving the
sub-adviser broad discretion to deploy the Series' assets among certain segments
of the fixed income market that the sub-adviser believes will best contribute to
 
                                        1
<PAGE>   85
 
achievement of the Series' investment objectives. In pursuing its investment
objectives, the Series reserves the right to invest predominantly in securities
rated in medium or lower rating categories or as determined by the sub-adviser
to be of comparable quality. Although the Series has the ability to invest up to
100% of the Series' assets in lower-rated securities, the Series' sub-adviser
does not anticipate investing in excess of 75% of the Series' assets in such
securities.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES seeks as its
investment objective a high level of current income, by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment-grade bonds.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment
objective long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital through investments primarily
in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective
long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common stock of
companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the potential
for above average growth.
 
     As a result of the market risk inherent in any investment, there is no
assurance that the investment objective of any of the Series will be realized.
Investments in a Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by the U.S.
Government or any other entity or person, and there can be no assurance that the
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series will be able to maintain a stable net asset
value of $1.00 per share.
 
     THE PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES INVESTS PREDOMINANTLY IN, AND
THE JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES, JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES
SERIES, PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES AND SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND
SERIES MAY INVEST IN HIGH YIELD, HIGH RISK BONDS. BONDS OF THIS TYPE ARE
TYPICALLY SUBJECT TO GREATER MARKET FLUCTUATIONS AND RISK OF LOSS OF INCOME AND
PRINCIPAL DUE TO DEFAULT BY THE ISSUER THAN ARE INVESTMENTS IN LOWER YIELDING,
HIGHER RATED BONDS. (SEE "INVESTMENT RISKS".)
 
     Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series, the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was
the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity
Series was the PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series.
 
     This Prospectus provides you with the basic information you should know
before investing in the Series. You should read it and keep it for future
reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated May 1, 1997, has been
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You can obtain a copy without
charge by calling (800) 322-8257, or writing the JNL Series Trust Service
Center, P.O. Box 25127, Lansing, MI 48909. The Securities and Exchange
Commission maintains a Web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains the Statement
of Additional Information, material incorporated by reference, and other
information regarding registrants that file electronically with the Commission.
                            ------------------------
 
     THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
                            ------------------------
 
  THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, DATED MAY 1, 1997, IS INCORPORATED
                              HEREIN BY REFERENCE.
 
                                        2
<PAGE>   86
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           TOPIC                                PAGE
                           -----                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
TRUST EXPENSES..............................................       4
 
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS........................................       6
 
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES..........................      10
 
COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.........      23
 
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST.....................................      30
 
INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES..................................      36
 
SHARE REDEMPTION............................................      36
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION......................................      36
 
PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES......................      37
 
TAX STATUS..................................................      38
</TABLE>
 
                                        3
<PAGE>   87
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                 TRUST EXPENSES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON PURCHASES                         NONE
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON REINVESTED DIVIDENDS              NONE
DEFERRED SALES LOAD                                             NONE
REDEMPTION FEES                                                 NONE
EXCHANGE FEE                                                    NONE
</TABLE>
 
ANNUAL SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
(As a percentage of average net assets.)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               OTHER
                                                              MANAGEMENT   EXPENSES(AFTER      TOTAL SERIES
                                                                 FEE       REIMBURSEMENT)   OPERATING EXPENSES
                                                              ----------   --------------   ------------------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>              <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%           .15%               1.15%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%           .15%              1.125%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series*...................................     .90%           .15%               1.05%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series*.............................     .90%           .15%               1.05%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series*............................     .75%           .15%                .90%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%           .15%                .90%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%           .15%                .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%           .15%                .85%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%           .15%               1.25%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
</TABLE>
 
     *The management fees for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series, JNL/Putnam Value
Equity Series and the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series were changed effective May
1, 1997. See "Management of the Trust." The changes represent an increase in
management fees for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series when net assets exceed $50
million, an increase in management fees for the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series
at all net asset levels and a decrease in management fees for the PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series at all net asset levels.
 
     Currently, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. will reimburse each of
the Series for annual expenses (excluding Management Fees) in excess of .15% of
average daily net assets. Voluntary reimbursements to these Series may be
modified or discontinued at any time. Prior to reimbursement, Total Series
Operating Expenses as a percentage of net assets for the period ended December
31, 1996, were: JNL Aggressive Growth Series -- 1.40%; JNL Capital Growth Series
- -- 1.27%; JNL Global Equities Series -- 1.63%; JNL/Alger Growth Series -- 1.19%;
JNL/Putnam Growth Series -- 1.27%; JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series -- 1.53%; PPM
America/JNL Balanced Series -- 1.22%; PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series --
1.21%; PPM America/JNL Money Market Series -- .85%; Salomon Brothers/JNL Global
Bond Series -- 1.44%; Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series
- -- 1.37%; T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series -- 1.11%; T. Rowe
Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series -- 1.29%; and T. Rowe Price/JNL
Mid-Cap Growth Series -- 1.14%.
 
                                        4
<PAGE>   88
 
EXAMPLE -
 
     The following example illustrates the expenses you would incur on a $1,000
investment, assuming (1) 5% annual return and (2) redemption at the end of each
time period:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1 YEAR    3 YEARS    5 YEARS    10 YEARS
                                                                ------    -------    -------    --------
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Global Equities Series..................................     $12        $37        $63        $140
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................     $11        $36        $62        $137
JNL/Putnam Growth Series....................................     $11        $33        $58        $128
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series..............................     $11        $33        $58        $128
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series.............................     $ 9        $29        $50        $111
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     $ 9        $29        $50        $111
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     $ 8        $24        $42        $93
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     $10        $32        $55        $122
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     $ 9        $27        $47        $105
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     $10        $32        $55        $122
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     $13        $40        $69        $151
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     $11        $35        $61        $134
</TABLE>
 
     The purpose of this table is to assist you in understanding the various
costs and expenses that you will bear directly or indirectly. The example
assumes a 5% annual rate of return pursuant to the requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. This hypothetical rate of return is not
intended to be representative of past or future performance of the Series.
 
                                        5
<PAGE>   89
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     The following table provides selected per share data for one share of each
Series. The information does not reflect any charges imposed by a separate
account investing in shares of the Series. You should refer to the appropriate
separate account prospectus for additional information regarding such charges.
 
     The information has been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent
accountants, and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and
notes thereto, together with the report of Price Waterhouse LLP included in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              JNL AGGRESSIVE                  JNL CAPITAL                     JNL GLOBAL
                                              GROWTH SERIES                  GROWTH SERIES                 EQUITIES SERIES
                                       ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------
                                       PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
                                         APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
                                         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
                                       DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                           1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996
                                       ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>                                    <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF
  PERIOD.............................     $13.13         $10.00          $13.86         $10.00          $13.75          $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss).........       0.05           0.01            0.06             --            0.03            0.10
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items......................       1.10           3.53            0.70           4.70            2.72            4.02
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Total income from investment
  operations.........................       1.15           3.54            0.76           4.70            2.75            4.12
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income...........      (0.05)            --              --             --           (0.08)             --
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions.......................      (0.71)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (0.90)          (0.37)
Return of capital....................      (0.14)            --              --             --           (0.32)             --
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Total distributions..................      (0.90)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (1.30)          (0.37)
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
Net increase.........................       0.25           3.13            0.60           3.86            1.45            3.75
                                         -------         ------         -------         ------         -------         -------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD.......     $13.38         $13.13          $14.46         $13.86          $15.20          $13.75
                                         =======         ======         =======         ======         =======         =======
TOTAL RETURN(A)......................       8.72%         35.78%           5.45%         47.94%          19.99%          41.51%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands).........................    $29,555         $8,527         $36,946         $9,578         $48,638         $16,141
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c).......................       1.09%          1.09%           1.09%          1.09%           1.14%           1.15%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)...........       0.77%          0.27%           0.91%         (0.49)%          0.37%           0.39%
Portfolio turnover rate..............      85.22%        163.84%         115.88%        128.56%          52.02%         142.36%
Average commission rate paid(d)......    $0.0242            n/a         $0.0196            n/a         $0.0162             n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID
  INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b)..........................       1.40%          2.77%           1.27%          2.08%           1.63%           2.25%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)..............       0.46%         (1.41)%          0.73%         (1.48)%         (0.12)%         (0.71)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 *  Commencement of operations.
**  Effective May 1, 1997, the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series is
    the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and is managed by PPM America, Inc., the
    JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series is the JNL/Putnam Growth Series
    and is managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc., and the PPM
    America/JNL Value Equity Series is the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series and is
    managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc.
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all distributions, and a complete redemption of the
    investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total return is
    not annualized.
(b) Annualized.
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        6
<PAGE>   90
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT       JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES     COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES**     COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES**            BOND SERIES
    --------------------------   --------------------------   --------------------------   --------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,     OCTOBER 16,     APRIL 1,       MAY 15,       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO
    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,
        1996          1996           1996          1996           1996          1996           1996          1996
    ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------
<S>             <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
       $10.38        $10.00         $11.17        $10.00         $12.50        $10.00         $10.23        $10.00
           --            --           0.10          0.25           0.04          0.01           0.51          0.73
         0.78          0.38           0.98          1.40           2.12          3.66           0.64          0.04
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
         0.78          0.38           1.08          1.65           2.16          3.67           1.15          0.77
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
           --            --          (0.15)        (0.19)         (0.05)           --          (0.69)        (0.54)
           --            --          (0.18)        (0.29)         (0.40)        (1.17)         (0.02)           --
           --            --             --            --             --            --             --            --
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
           --            --          (0.33)        (0.48)         (0.45)        (1.17)         (0.71)        (0.54)
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
         0.78          0.38           0.75          1.17           1.71          2.50           0.44          0.23
      -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------        -------        ------
       $11.16        $10.38         $11.92        $11.17         $14.21        $12.50         $10.67        $10.23
      =======        ======        =======        ======        =======        ======        =======        ======
         7.51%         3.80%          9.72%        16.60%         17.28%        37.69%         11.24%         7.82%
      $38,252        $8,649        $24,419        $4,761        $22,804        $2,518        $13,396        $6,156
         1.07%         1.03%          1.04%         1.01%          1.04%         0.95%          0.88%         0.88%
        (0.02)%       (0.17)%         2.39%         2.99%          0.94%         0.28%          8.64%         8.34%
        59.92%        50.85%        158.15%       115.84%        184.33%       255.03%        113.08%       186.21%
      $0.0441           n/a        $0.0494           n/a        $0.0175           n/a            n/a           n/a
         1.19%         1.89%          1.22%         3.71%          1.27%         5.38%          1.21%         1.50%
        (0.14)%       (1.03)%         2.21%         0.29%          0.71%        (4.15)%         8.31%         7.72%
</TABLE>
 
                                        7
<PAGE>   91
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                PPM AMERICA/JNL               PPM AMERICA/JNL            SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                                              MONEY MARKET SERIES          VALUE EQUITY SERIES**          GLOBAL BOND SERIES
                                          ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                          PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                                            APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
                                            1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
                                          DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                              1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
                                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD....      $1.00          $1.00         $12.77         $10.00         $10.46         $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss)............       0.04           0.04           0.10           0.23           0.42           0.81
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items.........................         --             --           1.97           2.86           0.70           0.24
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Total income from investment
  operations............................       0.04           0.04           2.07           3.09           1.12           1.05
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income..............      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.15)         (0.17)         (0.69)         (0.56)
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions..........................         --             --          (0.19)         (0.15)         (0.26)         (0.03)
Return of capital.......................         --             --             --             --             --             --
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Total distributions.....................      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.34)         (0.32)         (0.95)         (0.59)
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
Net increase............................         --             --           1.73           2.77           0.17           0.46
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------         ------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD..........      $1.00          $1.00         $14.50         $12.77         $10.63         $10.46
                                            =======         ======        =======         ======        =======         ======
TOTAL RETURN(A).........................       3.61%          4.59%         16.25%         31.14%         10.68%         10.74%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands)............................    $23,752         $6,816        $17,761         $3,365        $12,483         $6,380
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c)..........................       0.75%          0.75%          0.85%          0.87%          0.99%          1.00%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)..............       4.75%          5.06%          2.29%          2.33%          7.52%          9.01%
Portfolio turnover rate.................         --             --          13.71%         30.12%        109.85%        152.89%
Average commission rate paid(d).........        n/a            n/a        $0.0259            n/a            n/a            n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b).............................       0.85%          1.30%          1.53%          2.28%          1.44%          2.14%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b).................       4.65%          4.51%          1.61%          0.91%          7.07%          7.87%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 *  Commencement of operations.
**  Effective May 1, 1997, the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series is
    the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and is managed by PPM America, Inc., the
    JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series is the JNL/Putnam Growth Series
    and is managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc., and the PPM
    America/JNL Value Equity Series is the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series and is
    managed by Putnam Investment Management, Inc.
 
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, and a complete redemption
    of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total
    return is not annualized.
 
(b) Annualized.
 
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
 
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        8
<PAGE>   92
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S.                                        T. ROWE PRICE/
       GOVERNMENT & QUALITY            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL             JNL INTERNATIONAL             T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
            BOND SERIES            ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES     EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES        MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
    ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
        1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
    ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
       $10.09         $10.00         $11.36         $10.00         $11.25         $10.00         $13.43         $10.00
         0.24           0.45           0.03           0.07           0.06           0.04          (0.05)          0.06
         0.24           0.02           1.81           2.68           0.90           1.21           1.92           3.90
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.48           0.47           1.84           2.75           0.96           1.25           1.87           3.96
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.34)         (0.34)         (0.04)         (0.06)         (0.12)            --          (0.05)            --
        (0.03)         (0.04)         (0.09)         (1.33)         (0.01)            --          (0.36)         (0.53)
           --             --          (0.51)            --             --             --             --             --
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.37)         (0.38)         (0.64)         (1.39)         (0.13)            --          (0.41)         (0.53)
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.11           0.09           1.20           1.36           0.83           1.25           1.46           3.43
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
       $10.20         $10.09         $12.56         $11.36         $12.08         $11.25         $14.89         $13.43
      =======         ======        =======         ======        =======        =======        =======        =======
         4.82%          4.65%         16.12%         28.23%          8.54%         12.50%         13.91%         40.06%
       $9,832          $3,007       $32,291         $8,772        $48,204        $24,211        $47,104        $10,545
         0.84%          0.84%          1.00%          1.00%          1.25%          1.25%          1.10%          1.10%
         5.72%          5.41%          0.59%          0.75%          1.09%          0.78%         (0.18)%         0.82%
       218.50%        253.37%         36.41%        101.13%          5.93%         16.45%         25.05%         66.04%
          n/a            n/a        $0.0288            n/a        $0.0257            n/a        $0.0326            n/a
         1.37%          2.53%          1.11%          2.09%          1.29%          2.14%          1.14%          2.10%
         5.19%          3.72%          0.48%         (0.34)%         1.05%         (0.11)%        (0.22)%        (0.18)%
</TABLE>
 
     Each Series' recent performance and holdings will be detailed twice a year
in the Trust's annual and semi-annual reports, which are sent to all
shareholders.
 
                                        9
<PAGE>   93
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Investments in each Series are made in many different securities which
provide diversification to minimize risk. While there is careful selection of
portfolio securities and constant supervision by a team of professional
investment managers, there can be no guarantee that the Series' objectives will
be achieved. Because of differences in investment objectives and policies, as
well as acceptable degrees of risk, the performance of a Series may differ even
though more than one Series may utilize the same securities selection.
 
     Unless otherwise stated, the investment objectives and policies set forth
in this Prospectus are not fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees
without shareholder approval. Each Series is subject to additional investment
policies and restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information,
some of which are fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder
approval.
 
     Currently, shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company separate
accounts ("Accounts") to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies
("Policies") issued by life insurance companies. The Accounts purchase shares of
the Trust in accordance with variable account allocation instructions received
from owners of the Policies. The Trust then uses the proceeds to buy securities
for its Series. The investment adviser manages the Series from day to day to
accomplish the Trust's investment objectives. The kinds of investments and the
way they are managed depends on what is happening in the economy and the
financial marketplaces. Each of the Accounts, as a shareholder, has an ownership
in the Trust's investments. The Trust also offers to buy back (redeem) shares of
the Trust from the Accounts at any time at net asset value.
 
     Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. ("JNFSI"), a wholly owned
subsidiary of Jackson National Life Insurance Company, serves as investment
adviser for all the Series of the Trust. Janus Capital Corporation serves as
sub-adviser for the JNL Capital Growth, JNL Aggressive Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series; Fred Alger Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the
JNL/Alger Growth Series; Putnam Investment Management, Inc. serves as
sub-adviser for the JNL/Putnam Growth and JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series; PPM
America, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the PPM America/JNL Balanced, PPM
America/JNL High Yield Bond and PPM America/JNL Money Market Series; Salomon
Brothers Asset Management Inc serves as sub-adviser for the Salomon Brothers/JNL
U.S. Government & Quality Bond and Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series; T.
Rowe Price Associates, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series; and Rowe
Price-Fleming International, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe
Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series.
 
     Reference is made herein to ratings assigned to certain types of securities
by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("S&P"), Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
("Moody's"), Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch"), Duff & Phelps, Inc. ("Duff
& Phelps") and Thomson BankWatch, Inc., recognized independent securities
ratings institutions. A description of the ratings categories assigned by S&P
and Moody's is contained in Appendix A.
 
DIVERSIFICATION
 
     Each of the Series except the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth
Series qualifies as a diversified investment company under the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"). As a fundamental policy, a diversified
fund will not purchase a security of any issuer (except cash items and U.S.
Government securities) if a) it would cause the Series to own more than 10% of
the outstanding voting securities of that issuer or b) it would cause the
Series' holdings of that issuer to amount to more than 5% of the Series' total
assets (as applied in each case to 75% of the Series' total assets). As a
fundamental policy, the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series also
will not purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any
issuer; however, only 50% of total assets are subject to the 5% test. The JNL
Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series may invest up to 50% of total
assets in the securities of as few as two issuers (not to exceed 25% in any one
issuer) while the other Series may invest up to 25% of their total assets in the
securities of one issuer. Neither the JNL Capital Growth nor the JNL Aggressive
Growth Series anticipates concentrating its holdings in so few issuers unless
its sub-adviser believes a security has the potential for substantial capital
appreciation consistent with a Series' investment policies and goals. To the
extent that any Series invests more than 5% of its assets in a particular
issuer, its exposure to credit risks and/or market risks associated with that
issuer increases. As an additional fundamental policy, no Series will invest
more than 25% of its total assets in any particular industry (other than U.S.
Government securities), except that the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series may
invest a greater percent of its assets in the domestic banking industry.
 
                                       10
<PAGE>   94
 
  INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS) LIMITATIONS
 
     In addition to the diversification requirements stated above, each Series
intends to comply with the diversification requirements currently imposed by the
IRS on separate accounts of insurance companies as a condition of maintaining
the tax-deferred status of variable contracts. More specific information may be
contained in the participating insurance company's separate account prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Aggressive Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital. It is a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing primarily in common stocks of issuers of any size,
including larger, well-established companies and smaller, emerging growth
companies. The smaller or newer a company is, the more likely it may be to
suffer more significant losses as well as realize more substantial growth than
larger or more established issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Capital Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment objective by normally
investing at least 50% of its equity assets in securities issued by medium-sized
companies. Medium-sized companies are those whose market capitalizations fall
within the range of companies in the S&P MidCap 400 Index (the "MidCap Index").
Companies whose capitalization falls outside this range after the Series'
initial purchase continue to be considered medium-sized companies for the
purpose of this policy. As of December 30, 1996, the MidCap Index included
companies with capitalizations between approximately $192 million and $6.5
billion. The range of the MidCap Index is expected to change on a regular basis.
Subject to the above policy, the Series may also invest in smaller or larger
issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Global Equities Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a diversified Series that pursues its investment objective primarily through
investments in common stocks of foreign and domestic issuers. The Series is
permitted to invest on a worldwide basis in companies and other organizations of
any size, regardless of country of organization or place of principal business
activity, as well as domestic and foreign governments, government agencies and
other governmental entities. The Series normally invests in securities of
issuers from at least five different countries, including the United States,
although the Series may at times invest all of its assets in fewer than five
countries. The JNL Global Equities Series may not be suitable for investors that
are not able to bear the additional risks associated with the Series' more
extensive holdings of foreign securities.
 
                                       11
<PAGE>   95
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES,
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth, and JNL Global
Equities Series invests substantially all of its assets in common stocks when
its sub-adviser believes that the relevant market environment favors profitable
investing in those securities. Common stock investments are selected in
industries and companies that the sub-adviser believes are experiencing
favorable demand for their products and services, and which operate in a
favorable competitive environment and regulatory climate. The sub-adviser's
analysis and selection process focuses on stocks with earnings growth potential
that may not be recognized by the market. Such securities are selected primarily
for their capital growth potential; investment income is not a consideration.
These selection criteria apply equally to stocks of foreign issuers. In
addition, factors such as expected levels of inflation, government policies
influencing business conditions, the outlook for currency relationships, and
prospects for relative economic growth among countries, regions or geographic
areas may warrant greater consideration in selecting foreign stocks.
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series invests primarily in common stocks of foreign and domestic
companies. Each Series may invest to a lesser degree in other types of
securities, including preferred stock, warrants, convertible securities and debt
securities. Debt securities that the Series may purchase include corporate bonds
and debentures (not to exceed 35% of net assets in high-yield/high-risk bonds)
(See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds"); government securities;
mortgage- and asset-backed securities (not to exceed 25% of assets); zero coupon
bonds (not to exceed 10% of assets); indexed/structured notes; high-grade
commercial paper; certificates of deposit; and repurchase agreements. Such
securities may offer growth potential because of anticipated changes in interest
rates, credit standing, currency relationships or other factors. Each of these
Series may also invest in short-term debt securities as a means of receiving a
return on idle cash.
 
     When the Series' sub-adviser believes that market conditions are not
favorable for profitable investing or when the sub-adviser is otherwise unable
to locate favorable investment opportunities, the Series' investments may be
hedged to a greater degree and/or its cash or similar investments may increase.
In other words, the Series do not always stay fully invested in stocks and
bonds. Cash or similar investments are residual -- they represent the assets
that remain after the sub-adviser has committed available assets to desirable
investment opportunities. When a Series' cash position increases, it may not
participate in stock market advances or declines to the extent that it would if
it remained more fully invested in common stocks.
 
     Although JNL Global Equities Series is committed to foreign investing, each
of these Series may invest without limit in equity and debt securities of
foreign issuers. The Series may invest directly in foreign securities
denominated in a foreign currency and not publicly traded in the United States.
Other ways of investing in foreign securities include depositary receipts or
shares, and passive foreign investment companies. Each of these Series may use
futures, options and other derivatives for hedging purposes or as a means of
enhancing return. Some securities that these Series may purchase may be issued
on a when-issued, delayed delivery or forward commitment basis.
 
     Each of JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global Equities
Series may invest in "special situations" from time to time. A special situation
arises when, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, the securities of a particular
issuer will be recognized and appreciate in value due to a specific development
with respect to that issuer. Developments creating special situations might
include, among others, a new product or process, a technological breakthrough, a
management change or other extraordinary corporate event, or differences in
market supply of and demand for the security. Investment in special situations
may carry an additional risk of loss in the event that the anticipated
development does not occur or does not attract the expected attention. The
impact of this strategy on a Series will depend on the Series' size and the
extent of its holdings of special situation issuers relative to total net
assets.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>   96
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Alger Growth Series is long-term
capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series that seeks to achieve its
objective by investing in equity securities, such as common or preferred stocks
that are listed on a national securities exchange, or securities convertible
into or exchangeable for equity securities, including warrants and rights.
Except during temporary defensive periods, the Series invests at least 85
percent of its net assets in equity securities and at least 65 percent of its
total assets in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase of
the securities, have total market capitalization of $1 billion or greater.
 
     It is anticipated that the Series will invest primarily in companies whose
securities are traded on domestic stock exchanges or in the over-the-counter
market. These companies may still be in the developmental stage, may be older
companies that appear to be entering a new stage of growth progress owing to
factors such as management changes or development of new technology, products or
markets or may be companies providing products or services with a high unit
volume growth rate. The Series may invest up to 35 percent of its total assets
in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase, have total
market capitalization of less than $1 billion. In order to afford the Series the
flexibility to take advantage of new opportunities for investments in accordance
with its investment objective, the Series may hold up to 15 percent of its net
assets in money market instruments and repurchase agreements. During temporary
defensive periods, the Series may invest up to 100% of its assets in debt
securities, money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. The Portfolio
may also purchase restricted securities (subject to a limit on all illiquid
securities of 10 percent of net assets), lend its securities and enter into
"short sales against the box." (See "Common Types of Securities and Management
Practices").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Putnam Growth Series is to seek
long-term capital growth. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by retaining maximum flexibility in the management of the Series
consisting mainly of common stocks. Since income is not an objective, any income
generated by the investment of the Series' assets will be incidental to its
objective.
 
     The Series intends to invest primarily in the common stocks of companies
believed by the sub-adviser to have opportunities for capital growth. However,
since no one class or type of security at all times necessarily affords the
greatest promise for capital appreciation, the Series may invest any amount or
proportion of its assets in any class or type of security believed by the
sub-adviser to offer potential for capital appreciation over both the
intermediate and long term. Normally, of course, its investment will consist
largely of common stocks selected for the promise they offer of appreciation of
capital. However, the Series may also invest in preferred stocks, bonds,
convertible preferred stocks and convertible debentures if, in the judgment of
the sub-adviser, the investment would further its investment objectives. The
Series may invest up to 20% of its net assets in foreign securities. The Series
may also engage in certain options transactions and enter into financial futures
contracts and related options. Each security held will be monitored to determine
whether it is contributing to the basic objective of long-term growth of
capital.
 
     The sub-adviser believes that a portfolio of such securities provides the
most effective way to obtain capital appreciation, but when, for temporary
defensive purposes (as when market conditions for growth stocks are adverse),
other types of investments appear advantageous on the basis of combined
considerations of risk and the protection of capital values, investments may be
made in fixed income securities with or without warrants or conversion features.
In addition, for such temporary defensive purposes, the Series may pursue a
policy of retaining cash or investing part or all of its assets in cash
equivalents.
 
     To the extent that the Series holds bonds, it may be negatively affected by
adverse interest rate movements and credit quality. Generally, when interest
rates rise it may be expected that the value of bonds may decrease.
 
                                       13
<PAGE>   97
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series is capital
growth, with income as a secondary objective by investing primarily in common
stocks which the sub-adviser believes to be undervalued relative to underlying
asset value or earnings potential at the time of purchase. It is a diversified
Series that seeks superior market cycle total returns. The Series invests
primarily in the common stocks of large capitalization companies mainly
domiciled in the United States. Common stocks for this purpose include common
stocks and equivalents, such as securities convertible into common stocks and
securities having common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants to
purchase common stocks. Under normal circumstances, the Series will invest at
least 65% of the value of its total assets in equity securities.
 
     Companies considered attractive generally will have the following
characteristics: 1) stocks typically will have distinctly above average dividend
yields, and 2) the market prices of the stocks will be undervalued relative to
the normal earning power of the company. The thrust of this approach is to seek
investments where current investor enthusiasm is low, as reflected in their
valuations. Exposure is reduced when the investment community's perceptions
improve and the company approaches fair valuation.
 
     The sub-adviser takes a long-term investment approach by placing a strong
emphasis on its ability to determine attractive values and does not try to
determine short-term changes in the general market level. It is anticipated that
the annual turnover rate of the Series will not exceed 100% in normal
circumstances. The Series may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the common
stocks of foreign issuers, including American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series is to seek
reasonable income, long-term capital growth and preservation of capital. It is a
diversified Series that intends to invest based on combined consideration of
risk, income, capital enhancement, and protection of capital value. The Series
may invest in any type or class of security. Normally, the Series will invest in
common stocks and fixed income securities; however, it may also invest in
securities convertible into common stocks. At least 25% of the value of its
assets will be invested in fixed income senior securities.
 
     The Series may also engage in certain options transactions and enter into
financial futures contracts and related options for hedging purposes and may
invest in deferred or zero coupon debt obligations. In implementing the
investment objectives of this Series, the sub-adviser will select securities
believed to have potential for the production of current income, with emphasis
on securities that also have potential for capital enhancement. For temporary
defensive purposes when the sub-adviser believes that adverse market conditions
warrant, the Series may actively pursue a policy of retaining cash or investing
part or all of its assets in cash equivalents, such as government securities and
high grade commercial paper.
 
     The Series will emphasize investments in investment grade fixed income
securities which are rated within the four highest categories by recognized
rating agencies, e.g., S&P and Moody's. However, the Series may take a modest
position in lower or non-rated fixed income securities, but the Series will not
invest more than 35% of its net assets, determined at the time of investment, in
high yield, high risk fixed income securities. The Series may invest in bonds
rated as low as Ca by Moody's or CC by S&P. A fixed income securities issue may
have its ratings reduced below the minimum permitted for purchase by the Series.
In that event the sub-adviser will determine whether the Series should continue
to hold such issue in its portfolio. If, in the sub-adviser's opinion, market
conditions warrant, the Series may increase its position in lower or non-rated
securities from time to time. The lower rated and non-rated convertible
securities are predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity
to repay principal and pay interest. Investment in lower rated and non-rated
convertible fixed income securities normally involves a greater degree of market
and credit risk than does investment in securities having higher ratings. The
price of these fixed income securities will generally move in inverse proportion
to interest rates. In addition, non-rated securities are often less marketable
than rated securities. To the extent that the Series holds any lower rated or
non-rated securities, it may be negatively affected by adverse economic
developments, increased volatility and lack of liquidity. (See "Investment Risks
- -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds").
 
                                       14
<PAGE>   98
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond
Series is a high level of current income; its secondary investment objective is
capital appreciation by investing in fixed income securities, with emphasis on
higher-yielding, higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds. It is a
diversified Series.
 
     Under normal market conditions, the Series will be invested substantially
in long-term (over 10 years to maturity) and intermediate-term (3 to 10 years to
maturity) fixed income securities, with emphasis on higher-yielding,
higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds. These high risk, high yield
bonds typically are subject to greater market fluctuations and risk of loss of
income and principal due to default by the issuer than are investments in
lower-yielding, higher-rated bonds. (See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High
Risk Bonds").
 
     High risk, high yield bonds generally include any bonds that are rated Ba
or below by Moody's or BB or below by S&P or that are unrated but considered by
the sub-adviser to be of equivalent credit quality. Bonds rated Ba or BB or
below are considered speculative. The Series may invest without limitation in
bonds rated as low as Ca by Moody's or C by S&P (or unrated but considered by
the sub-adviser to be of equivalent quality). In addition, the Series may invest
up to 10% of its total assets in bonds rated C by Moody's or D by S&P (or
unrated but considered by the sub-adviser to be of equivalent quality).
High-yield bonds are riskier than lower-yielding, higher-rated bonds.
 
     In pursuing its secondary investment objective of capital appreciation, the
Series may purchase high yield bonds that are expected by the sub-adviser to
increase in value due to improvements in their credit quality or ratings or
anticipated declines in interest rates. In addition, the Series may invest for
this purpose up to 25% of its assets in equity securities, such as common
stocks, or other securities having common stock characteristics. Securities
designated as having common stock characteristics include, but are not limited
to, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock.
 
     Treating high current income as its primary investment objective means that
the Series may forego opportunities that would result in capital gains and may
accept prudent risks to capital value, in each case to take advantage of
opportunities for higher current income.
 
     Up to 25% of the Series' assets may be invested in securities of foreign
issuers, which are generally denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar. The Series also has the ability to hold a portion of its assets in
foreign currencies and to enter into forward foreign currency exchange
contracts, currency options, currency and financial futures contracts, and
options on such futures contracts. The Series may enter into repurchase
agreements and firm commitment agreements and may purchase securities on a
when-issued basis. Investment in foreign securities also involves special risks.
 
     Under normal market conditions, the Series will invest at least 65% of its
total assets in high risk, high yield bonds as described above. Subject to this
requirement, the Series may maintain assets in cash or cash equivalents,
including commercial bank obligations (certificates of deposit, which are
interest-bearing time deposits; bankers' acceptances, which are time drafts on a
commercial bank for which the bank accepts an irrevocable obligation to pay at
maturity; and demand or time deposits), commercial paper (short-term notes
issued by corporations or governmental bodies) and obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government. The Series may adopt temporary defensive
position investment policies during adverse market, economic or other
circumstances that require immediate action to avoid losses. During periods when
and to the extent that the Series has assumed a temporary defensive position,
the Series may not be pursuing its investment objective.
 
                                       15
<PAGE>   99
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series is to
achieve as high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation
of capital and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high quality, short-term
money market instruments. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing mainly in debt, but the Series shall retain maximum
flexibility in the management of its portfolio.
 
     The Series invests in high quality money market instruments. These
instruments are considered to be among the safest investments available because
of their short maturities, liquidity and high quality ratings.
 
     This Series will invest exclusively in the following types of high quality,
U.S. dollar denominated money market instruments that mature in 397 days or
less:
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies and instrumentalities.
 
     - Obligations, such as time deposits, certificates of deposit and bankers
       acceptances, issued by U.S. banks and savings banks that are members of
       the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, including their foreign
       branches and foreign subsidiaries, and issued by domestic and foreign
       branches of foreign banks.
 
     - Corporate obligations, including commercial paper, of domestic and
       foreign issuers.
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or
       any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities,
       including obligations of supranational entities.
 
     - Repurchase agreements on obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
     Investments are managed to meet the quality and diversification
requirements of the 1940 Act. Under Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, the Series
must maintain a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of 90 days or less
and may only purchase U.S. dollar denominated instruments that are determined to
present minimal credit risks and that at the time of acquisition are rated in
the top two rating categories by the required number of nationally recognized
statistical rating organizations (at least two or, if only one rating agency has
rated the security, that one agency) or, if unrated, are deemed comparable in
quality. Determination of credit risks and quality will be made by the
sub-adviser in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trust's Board of
Trustees. The diversification requirements of Rule 2a-7 provide generally that
the Series may not at the time of acquisition invest more than 5% of its assets
in securities of any one issuer or invest more than 5% of its assets in
securities that have not been rated in the highest category by the required
number of rating agencies or, if unrated, have not been deemed comparable,
except U.S. Government securities and repurchase agreements on such securities.
A more complete description of the rating categories is set forth under Appendix
A.
 
     The Series may invest more than 25% of its total assets in the domestic
banking industry, which would cause the Series to be more exposed to the risks
of such industry. Bank obligations held by the Series do not benefit materially
from insurance from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The 25%
limitation does not apply to U.S. Government securities, including obligations
issued or guaranteed by its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond
Series is to seek a high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the
Series will seek capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series. The Series
seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in a globally diverse portfolio of
fixed income investments and by giving the sub-adviser broad discretion to
deploy the assets among certain segments of the fixed income market that the
sub-adviser believes will best contribute to the achievement of the Series'
objectives. At any point in time, the sub-adviser will deploy the Series' assets
based on its analysis of current economic and market conditions and the relative
risks and opportunities present in the following market segments: U.S.
Government obligations, investment grade domestic corporate debt, high yield
domestic corporate debt securities, mortgage-backed securities and investment
grade and high yield foreign corporate and sovereign debt securities. The
sub-adviser has entered into an agreement with its London-based affiliate,
Salomon Brothers Asset Management Limited ("SBAM
 
                                       16
<PAGE>   100
 
Limited") pursuant to which SBAM Limited will provide certain advisory services
to the sub-adviser relating to currency transactions and investments in
non-dollar denominated debt securities for the benefit of the Series.
 
     The sub-adviser will determine the amount of assets to be allocated to each
type of security in which it invests based on its assessment of the maximum
level of income and capital appreciation that can be achieved from a portfolio
which is invested in these securities. In making this determination, the
sub-adviser will rely in part on quantitative analytical techniques that measure
relative risks and opportunities of each type of security based on current and
historical economic, market, political and technical data for each type of
security, as well as on its own assessment of economic and market conditions
both on a global and local (country) basis. In performing quantitative analysis,
the sub-adviser will employ prepayment analysis and option adjusted spread
technology to evaluate mortgage securities, mean variance optimization models to
evaluate foreign debt securities, and total rate of return analysis to measure
relative risks and opportunities in other fixed income markets. Economic factors
considered will include current and projected levels of growth and inflation,
balance of payments, status and monetary policy. The allocation of assets to
foreign debt securities will further be influenced by current and expected
currency relationships and political and sovereign factors. The sub-adviser will
continuously review this allocation of assets and make such adjustments as it
deems appropriate. The Series does not plan to establish a minimum or a maximum
percentage of the assets which it will invest in any particular type of fixed
income security.
 
     In addition, the sub-adviser will have discretion to select the range of
maturities of the various fixed income securities in which the Series invests.
The sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions the Series'
portfolio securities will have a weighted average life of 6 to 10 years.
However, the weighted average life of the portfolio securities may vary
substantially from time to time depending on economic and market conditions. The
Series may adopt temporary defensive position investment policies during adverse
market, economic or other circumstances that require immediate action to avoid
losses. During periods when and to the extent that the Series has assumed a
temporary defensive position, the Series may not be pursuing its investment
objective.
 
     The investment grade corporate debt securities and the investment grade
foreign debt securities to be purchased by the Series are domestic and foreign
debt securities rated within the four highest bond ratings of either Moody's or
S&P, or, if unrated, deemed to be of equivalent quality in the sub-adviser's
judgment. While debt securities carrying the fourth highest quality rating (Baa
by Moody's or BBB by S&P) are considered investment grade and are viewed to have
adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, investments in such
securities involve a higher degree of risk than that associated with investments
in debt securities in the higher rating categories and such debt securities lack
outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative
characteristics as well. For example, changes in economic conditions or other
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal
and interest payments than is the case with higher grade debt securities.
 
     The types and characteristics of the U.S. Government obligations and
mortgage-backed securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth below in
the discussion of investment objectives and policies for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series. In addition, the Series may
purchase privately issued mortgage securities which are not guaranteed by the
U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities and may purchase stripped
mortgage securities, including interest-only and principal-only securities.
Additional information with respect to securities to be purchased by the Series
is set forth below under the sections entitled "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks."
 
     The Series may invest in debt obligations issued or guaranteed by a foreign
sovereign government or one of its agencies or political subdivisions and debt
obligations issued or guaranteed by supranational organizations. Supranational
entities include international organizations designated or supported by
governmental entities to promote economic reconstruction or development and
international banking institutions and related government agencies. Examples
include the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the "World
Bank"), the European Coal and Steel Community, the Asian Development Bank and
the Inter-American Development Bank. Such supranational issued instruments may
be denominated in multi-national currency units.
 
     In pursuing the Series' investment objectives, the Series reserves the
right to invest predominantly in medium or lower-rated securities. Although the
Series has the ability to invest up to 100% of its assets in lower-rated
securities, the Series' sub-adviser does not anticipate investing in excess of
75% of the Series' assets in such securities. Investments of this type involve
significantly greater risks, including price volatility and risk of default in
the payment of interest and principal, than higher-quality securities. The
sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions, a significant
portion of the Series assets
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   101
 
will be invested in such high risk, high yield securities. By investing a
portion of the Series' assets in securities rated below investment grade as well
as through investments in mortgage securities and foreign debt securities, the
sub-adviser expects to provide investors with a higher yield than a high-quality
domestic corporate bond fund. Certain of the debt securities in which the Series
may invest may be rated as low as C by Moody's or D by S&P or may be considered
comparable to securities having such ratings. Medium and lower-rated securities
are considered to be predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's
capacity to pay interest and repay principal.
 
     In light of the risks associated with high yield corporate and sovereign
debt securities, the sub-adviser will take various factors into consideration in
evaluating the creditworthiness of an issuer. For corporate debt securities,
these will typically include the issuer's financial resources, its sensitivity
to economic conditions and trends, the operating history of the issuer, and the
experience and track record of the issuer's management. For sovereign debt
instruments, these will typically include the economic and political conditions
within the issuer's country, the issuer's overall and external debt levels and
debt service ratios, the issuer's access to capital markets and other sources of
funding, and the issuer's debt service payment history. The sub-adviser will
also review the ratings, if any, assigned to the security by any recognized
rating agencies, although the sub-adviser's judgment as to the quality of a debt
security may differ from that suggested by the rating published by a rating
service. The Series' ability to achieve its investment objective may be more
dependent on the sub-adviser's credit analysis than would be the case if it
invested in higher quality debt securities.
 
     The high yield sovereign debt securities in which the Series may invest are
U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities, including Brady Bonds, and non-dollar
denominated debt securities that are issued or guaranteed by governments or
governmental entities of developing and emerging countries. The sub-adviser
expects that these countries will consist primarily of those which have issued
or have announced plans to issue Brady Bonds, but the portfolio is not limited
to investing in the debt of such countries. Brady Bonds are debt securities
issued under the framework of the Brady Plan, an initiative announced by former
U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor
nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness. (See "Investment
Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds"). The sub-adviser anticipates that the
Series' initial investments in sovereign debt will be concentrated in Latin
American countries, including Mexico and Central and South American and
Caribbean countries. The sub-adviser expects to take advantage of additional
opportunities for investment in the debt of North African countries, such as
Nigeria and Morocco, Eastern European countries, such as Poland and Hungary, and
Southeast Asian countries, such as the Philippines. Sovereign governments may
include national, provincial, state, municipal or other foreign governments with
taxing authority. Governmental entities may include the agencies and
instrumentalities of such governments, as well as state-owned enterprises. (For
a more detailed discussion of high yield sovereign debt securities, see
"Investment Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds").
 
     The Series will be subject to special risks as a result of its ability to
invest up to 100% of its assets in foreign securities (including emerging market
securities). Such securities may be non-U.S. dollar denominated and there is no
limit on the percentage of the Series' assets that can be invested in non-dollar
denominated securities. The sub-adviser anticipates that, under current market
conditions, a significant portion of the Series' assets will be invested in
foreign securities. (See "Investment Risks"). The ability to spread its
investments among the fixed income markets in a number of different countries
may, however, reduce the overall level or market risk to the extent it may
reduce the Series' exposure to a single market.
 
     The Series may invest in zero coupon securities and pay-in-kind bonds. (See
"Common Types of Securities and Management Practices"). In addition, the Series
may invest in fixed and floating rate loans ("Loans") arranged through private
negotiations between a corporate borrower or a foreign sovereign entity and one
or more financial institutions ("Lenders"). The Series may invest in such Loans
in the form of participations in Loans ("Participations") and assignments of all
or a portion of Loans from third parties ("Assignments"). The Series considers
these investments to be investments in debt securities for purposes of this
Prospectus. Participations typically will result in the Series having a
contractual relationship only with the Lender, not with the borrower. The Series
will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to
which it is entitled only from the Lender selling the Participation and only
upon receipt by the Lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with
purchasing Participations, the Series generally will have no right to enforce
compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement relating to the
Loan, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and the Series may not
benefit directly from any collateral supporting the Loan in which it has
purchased the Participation. As a result, the Series will assume the credit risk
of both the borrower and the Lender that is selling the Participation. In the
event of the insolvency of the Lender selling a Participation, the Series may be
treated as a general creditor of the Lender and may not benefit from any set-off
between the Lender and the borrower. The Series will acquire Participations only
if
 
                                       18
<PAGE>   102
 
the Lender interpositioned between the Series and the borrower is determined by
the sub-adviser to be creditworthy. When the Series purchases Assignments from
Lenders, the Series will acquire direct rights against the borrower on the Loan,
except that under certain circumstances such rights may be more limited than
those held by the assigning Lender.
 
     The Series may have difficulty disposing of Assignments and Participations.
Because the market for such instruments is not highly liquid, the Series
anticipates that such instruments could be sold only to a limited number of
institutional investors. The lack of a highly liquid secondary market may have
an adverse impact on the value of such instruments and will have an adverse
impact on the Series' ability to dispose of particular Assignments or
Participations in response to a specific economic event, such as deterioration
in the creditworthiness of the borrower. The Series currently treats investments
in Participations and Assignments as illiquid for purposes of its limitation on
investment in illiquid securities. However, the Trustees may in the future adopt
policies and procedures for the purpose of determining whether Assignments and
Loan Participations are liquid or illiquid. Pursuant to such policies and
procedures, the Trustees would delegate to the sub-adviser the determination as
to whether a particular Loan Participation or Assignment is liquid or illiquid,
requiring that consideration be given to, among other things, the frequency of
quotes, the number of dealers willing to sell and the number of potential
purchasers, the nature of the Loan Participation or Assignment and the time
needed to dispose of it and the contractual provisions of the relevant
documentation. The Trustees would periodically review purchases and sales of
Assignments and Loan Participations. To the extent that liquid Assignments and
Loan Participations that the Series held became illiquid, due to the lack of
sufficient buyers or market or other conditions, the percentage of the Series'
assets invested in illiquid assets would increase.
 
     The Series may invest up to 20% of its assets in common stock, convertible
securities, warrants, preferred stock or other equity securities when consistent
with the Series' objectives. The Series will generally hold such equity
investments as a result of purchases of unit offerings of fixed income
securities which include such securities or in connection with an actual or
proposed conversion or exchange of fixed income securities, but may also
purchase equity securities not associated with fixed income securities when, in
the opinion of the sub-adviser, such purchase is appropriate.
 
     The Series currently intends to invest substantially all of its assets in
fixed income securities. In order to maintain liquidity, however, the Series may
invest up to 20% of its assets in high-quality short-term money market
instruments. If at some future date, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, adverse
conditions prevail in the market for fixed income securities, the Series for
temporary defensive purposes may invest its assets without limit in high-quality
short-term money market instruments. The types and characteristics of the money
market securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth in the discussion
of investment objectives and policies of the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, enter into mortgage "dollar rolls" and lend portfolio securities.
The Series will not make loans of portfolio securities with a value in excess of
25% of the Series' total assets. The Series may also enter into options, futures
and currency transactions, although with the exception of currency transactions,
it is not presently anticipated that any of these strategies will be utilized to
a significant degree by the Series. (See "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks"). The Series' ability to pursue
certain of these strategies may be limited by applicable regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission ("CFTC") and the federal income tax requirements applicable to
regulated investment companies.
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   103
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government &
Quality Bond Series is to obtain a high level of current income. It is a
diversified Series that seeks to attain its objective by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment grade bonds.
 
     At least 65% of the total assets of the Series will be invested in:
 
     (1) U.S. Treasury obligations;
 
     (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of
         the U.S. Government which are backed by their own credit and may not be
         backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government;
 
     (3) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National
         Mortgage Association that are supported by the full faith and credit of
         the U.S. Government. Such securities entitle the holder to receive all
         interest and principal payments due whether or not payments are
         actually made on the underlying mortgages;
 
     (4) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities
         of the U.S. Government which are supported by their own credit but not
         the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, such as the Federal
         Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the Federal National Mortgage
         Association; and
 
     (5) collateralized mortgage obligations issued by private issuers for which
         the underlying mortgage-backed securities serving as collateral are
         backed (i) by the credit alone of the U.S. Government agency or
         instrumentality which issues or guarantees the mortgage-backed
         securities, or (ii) by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
         Government.
 
     Any guarantee of the securities in which the Series invests runs only to
the principal and interest payments on the securities and not to the market
value of such securities or to the principal and interest payments on the
underlying mortgages. In addition, the guarantee only runs to the portfolio
securities held by the Series and not the purchase of shares of the Series.
 
     The Series may invest in securities of any maturity or effective duration
and, accordingly, the composition and weighted average maturity of the Series'
portfolio will vary from time to time, based upon the sub-adviser's
determination of how best to achieve the Series' investment objective. With
respect to mortgage-backed securities in which the Series invests, average
maturity and duration are determined by using mathematical models that
incorporate prepayment assumptions and other factors that involve estimates of
future economic parameters. These estimates may vary from actual results,
particularly during periods of extreme market volatility. In addition, the
average maturity and duration of mortgage-backed derivative securities may not
accurately reflect the price volatility of such securities under certain market
conditions.
 
     A significant portion of the Series' assets may from time to time be
invested in mortgage-backed securities. The mortgage-backed securities in which
the Series invests represent participating interests in pools of fixed rate and
adjustable rate residential mortgage loans issued or guaranteed by agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. Mortgage-backed securities are issued
by lenders such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, and savings and loan
associations. Mortgage-backed securities generally provide monthly payments
which are, in effect, a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal
payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the
pooled mortgage loans. Principal prepayments result from the sale of the
underlying property or the refinancing or foreclosure of underlying mortgages.
 
     The yield of mortgage-backed securities is based upon the prepayment rates
experienced over the life of the security. Prepayments tend to increase during
periods of falling interest rates, while during periods of rising interest rates
prepayments will most likely decline. Reinvestment by the Series of scheduled
principal payments and unscheduled prepayments may occur at higher or lower
rates than the original investment, thus affecting the yield of the Series.
Monthly interest payments received by the Series have a compounding effect which
will increase the yield to shareholders as compared to debt obligations that pay
interest semi-annually. Because of the reinvestment of prepayments of principal
at current rates, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than Treasury
bonds of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining
interest rates. Also, although the value of debt securities may increase as
interest rates decline,
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   104
 
the value of these pass-through type of securities may not increase as much due
to the prepayment feature.
 
     While the Series seeks a high level of current income, it cannot invest in
instruments such as lower grade corporate obligations which offer higher yields
but are subject to greater credit risks. The Series will not knowingly invest in
a high risk "mortgage security," generally defined as any mortgage security that
exhibits significantly greater price volatility than a benchmark security, the
Federal National Mortgage Association current coupon 30-year mortgage-backed
pass through security. Shares of the Series are neither insured nor guaranteed
by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities. Neither the issuance
by nor the guarantee of a U.S. Government agency for a security constitutes
assurance that the security will not significantly fluctuate in value or that
the Series will receive the originally anticipated yield on the security.
 
     The Series may also invest up to 35% of its assets in U.S.
dollar-denominated securities rated AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or Aaa, Aa, A or
Baa by Moody's, or if unrated, determined to be of comparable quality to
securities in those ratings categories by the sub-adviser. The Series may not
invest more than 10% of total assets in obligations of foreign issuers.
Investments in foreign securities will subject the Series to special
considerations related to political, economic and legal conditions outside of
the U.S. (See "Investment Risks"). These considerations include the possibility
of expropriation, nationalization, withholding taxes on income and difficulties
in enforcing judgments. Foreign securities may be less liquid and more volatile
than comparable U.S. securities.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, and lend portfolio securities. The Series will not make loans of
portfolio securities with a value in excess of 25% of the value of its total
assets. The Series may also enter into mortgage "dollar rolls." (For a
description of these investment practices and the risks associated with them,
see "Common Types of Securities and Management Practices" and "Investment
Risks").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series
is to seek long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies. A
growth company is defined as one which: (1) has demonstrated historical growth
of earnings faster than the growth of inflation and the economy in general; and
(2) has indications of being able to continue this growth pattern in the future.
Total return will consist primarily of capital appreciation or depreciation and
secondarily of dividend income.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest primarily in the common stock
of a diversified group of well-established growth companies. While current
dividend income is not a prerequisite in the selection of a growth company, the
companies in which the Series will invest normally have a record of paying
dividends and are generally expected to increase the amounts of such dividends
in future years as earnings increase. Although the Series will invest primarily
in U.S. common stocks, it may also purchase other types of securities, for
example, convertible securities, warrants, hybrid instruments, restricted
securities, futures and options, when considered consistent with the Series'
investment objective and program. The Series may invest up to 30% of its total
assets (excluding reserves) in foreign securities, including ADRs.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity
Investment Series is to seek long-term growth of capital through investments
primarily in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies. Total return
consists of capital appreciation or depreciation, dividend income, and currency
gains or losses.
 
     Over the last 30 years, many foreign economies have grown faster than the
United States' economy, and the return from equity investments in these
countries has often exceeded the return on similar investments in the United
States. Moreover, there has normally been a wide and largely unrelated variation
in performance between international equity markets over this period. Although
there can be no assurance that these conditions will continue, the Series'
sub-adviser, within the framework of diversification, seeks to identify and
invest in companies
 
                                       21
<PAGE>   105
 
participating in the faster growing foreign economies and markets. The
sub-adviser believes that investment in foreign securities offers significant
potential for long-term capital appreciation and an opportunity to achieve
investment diversification. The Series may also purchase other types of
securities, for example, common and preferred stocks, convertible securities,
fixed income securities, hybrid instruments, restricted securities, foreign
currency transactions, futures and options.
 
     In analyzing companies for investment, the sub-adviser ordinarily looks for
one or more of the following characteristics: an above-average earnings growth
per share; high return on invested capital; healthy balance sheet; sound
financial and accounting policies and overall financial strength; strong
competitive advantages; effective research and product development and
marketing; efficient service; pricing flexibility; strength of management; and
general operating characteristics which will enable the companies to compete
successfully in their market place. While current dividend income is not a
prerequisite in the selection of portfolio companies, the companies in which the
Series invests, normally will have a record of paying dividends, and will
generally be expected to increase the amounts of such dividends in future years
as earnings increase.
 
     It is a diversified Series that intends to diversify investments broadly
among countries and to normally have at least three different countries
represented in the Series. The Series may invest in countries of the Far East
and Europe, as well as South Africa, Australia, Canada and other areas
(including developing countries). Under unusual circumstances, however, the
Series may invest substantially all of its assets in one or two countries.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series is
to provide long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common
stock of companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the
potential for above-average growth.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest at least 65% of its total
assets in a diversified portfolio of mid-cap common stocks with above-average
growth potential. A mid-cap company is defined as one whose market
capitalization falls within the capitalization range of companies included in
the S&P MidCap 400 Index. Mid-cap growth companies are often still in the early,
more dynamic phase of a company's life cycle, but have enough corporate history
that they are no longer considered new or emerging. By focusing their
activities, mid-cap companies may be more responsive and better able to adapt to
the changing needs of their markets. They are usually mature enough to have
established organizational structures and the depth of management needed to
expand their operations. In addition, these companies generally have sufficient
financial resources and access to capital to finance their growth.
 
     While investing in mid-cap growth companies generally entails greater risk
and volatility than investing in large, well-established companies, mid-cap
companies are expected to offer the potential for more rapid growth. They may
also offer greater potential for capital appreciation because of their higher
growth rates. In addition, the stocks of such companies are less actively
followed by securities analysts and may, therefore, be undervalued by investors.
 
     The sub-adviser will rely on its proprietary research to identify mid-cap
companies with attractive growth prospects. The Series will seek to invest
primarily in companies which: 1) offer proven products or services, 2) have a
historical record of earnings growth that is above average, 3) demonstrate the
potential to sustain earnings growth, 4) operate in industries experiencing
increasing demand, and/or 5) are believed to be reasonably valued in the
marketplace. There is, of course, no guarantee the Series will be able to
identify such companies or that its investment in them will be successful.
 
     Although the Series will invest primarily in U.S. common stocks, it may
also purchase other types of securities, for example, convertible securities,
restricted securities, hybrid instruments, warrants, futures and options, when
considered consistent with the Series' investment objective and program. The
Series may invest up to 25% of its assets (excluding reserves) in foreign
securities, including ADRs.
 
                                       22
<PAGE>   106
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
 
     This section describes some of the types of securities a Series may hold in
its portfolio and the various kinds of investment practices that may be used in
day-to-day portfolio management. A Series may invest in the following securities
or engage in the following practices to the extent that such securities and
practices are consistent with the Series' investment objective(s) and policies
described herein. Each Series' investment program is subject to further
restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
     BORROWING AND LENDING. A Series may borrow money from banks for temporary
or emergency purposes in amounts up to 25% of its total assets. To secure
borrowings a Series may mortgage or pledge securities in amounts up to 15% of
its net assets. As a fundamental policy, a Series will not lend securities or
other assets if, as a result, more than 25% of its total assets would be lent to
other parties.
 
     CASH POSITION. A Series may hold a certain portion of its assets in
repurchase agreements and money market securities rated in one of the two
highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating
organization, maturing in one year or less. For temporary, defensive purposes, a
Series may invest without limitation in such securities. This reserve position
provides flexibility in meeting redemptions, expenses, and the timing of new
investments, and serves as a short-term defense during periods of unusual market
volatility.
 
     COMMON AND PREFERRED STOCKS. Stocks represent shares of ownership in a
company. Generally, preferred stock has a specified dividend and ranks after
bonds and before common stocks in its claim on income for dividend payments and
on assets should the company be liquidated. After other claims are satisfied,
common stockholders participate in company profits on a pro rata basis; profits
may be paid out in dividends or reinvested in the company to help it grow.
Increases and decreases in earnings are usually reflected in a company's stock
price, so common stocks generally have the greatest appreciation and
depreciation potential of all corporate securities. While most preferred stocks
pay a dividend, a Series may purchase preferred stock where the issuer has
omitted, or is in danger of omitting, payment of its dividend. Such investments
would be made primarily for their capital appreciation potential. Although
common and preferred stocks have a history of long-term growth in value, their
prices tend to fluctuate in the short term, particularly those of smaller
companies.
 
     CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES AND WARRANTS. A Series may invest in debt or
preferred equity securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity
securities. Traditionally, convertible securities have paid dividends or
interest at rates higher than common stocks but lower than non-convertible
securities. They generally participate in the appreciation or depreciation of
the underlying stock into which they are convertible, but to a lesser degree. In
recent years, convertibles have been developed which combine higher or lower
current income with options and other features. Warrants are options to buy a
stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price any time during the
life of the warrants (generally, two or more years).
 
     FIXED INCOME SECURITIES. A Series may invest in fixed income securities of
companies which meet the investment criteria for the Series. The price of fixed
income securities fluctuates with changes in interest rates, generally rising
when interest rates fall and falling when interest rates rise. Prices of
longer-term securities generally increase or decrease more sharply than those of
shorter-term securities in response to interest rate changes.
 
     FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A Series will normally conduct its foreign
currency exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash), basis at the spot
rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering
into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies. A Series will
generally not enter into a forward contract with a term of greater than one
year.
 
     There are certain markets where it is not possible to engage in effective
foreign currency hedging. This may be true, for example, for the currencies of
various countries where the foreign exchange markets are not sufficiently
developed to permit hedging activity to take place.
 
     FOREIGN SECURITIES. A Series may invest in foreign securities. These
include non-dollar denominated securities traded principally outside the U.S.
and dollar denominated securities traded in the U.S. (such as ADRs). Such
investments increase a Series' diversification and may enhance return, but they
also involve some special risks such as exposure to potentially adverse local
political and economic developments; nationalization and exchange controls;
potentially lower liquidity and higher volatility; possible problems arising
from accounting, disclosure, settlement, and regulatory practices that differ
from U.S. standards; and the chance that fluctuations in foreign exchange rates
will decrease the investment's value (favorable changes can increase its value).
 
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     FUTURES AND OPTIONS. Futures are often used to manage risk, because they
enable the investor to buy or sell an asset in the future at an agreed upon
price. Options give the investor the right, but not the obligation, to buy or
sell an asset at a predetermined price in the future. A Series may buy and sell
futures contracts (and options on such contracts) to manage its exposure to
changes in securities prices and foreign currencies and as an efficient means of
adjusting overall exposure to certain markets. Subject to certain limits
described in the Statement of Additional Information, a Series may purchase or
sell call and put options on securities, financial indices, and foreign
currencies, and may invest in futures contracts on foreign currencies and
financial indices, including interest rates or an index of U.S. Government
securities, foreign government securities or equity or fixed income securities.
 
     Futures contracts and options may not always be successful hedges; their
prices can be highly volatile; using them could lower a Series' total return;
and the potential loss from the use of futures can exceed the Series' initial
investment in such contracts. These instruments may also be used for non-hedging
purposes such as increasing a Series' income.
 
     The Series' use of commodity futures and commodity options trading should
not be viewed as providing a vehicle for shareholder participation in a
commodity pool. Rather, in accordance with regulations adopted by the CFTC, a
Series will employ such techniques only for (1) hedging purposes, or (2)
otherwise, to the extent that aggregate initial margin and required premiums do
not exceed 5 percent of the Series' net assets.
 
     ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Series may invest up to 15% of its net assets
(10% in the case of the JNL/Alger Growth Series and the PPM America/JNL Money
Market Series) in securities that are considered illiquid. Illiquid investments
include repurchase agreements not terminable within seven days, securities for
which market quotations are not readily available and certain restricted
securities. Illiquid investments may be difficult to sell promptly at an
acceptable price. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may
be costly to a Series. Certain restricted securities may be determined to be
liquid in accordance with guidelines adopted by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
 
     HIGH YIELD BONDS. A Series may invest its assets in fixed income securities
offering high current income that are in the lower rating categories of
recognized rating agencies or are non-rated. These lower-rated fixed income
securities are considered on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect
to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of
the obligation and generally will involve more credit risk than securities in
the higher rating categories.
 
     DEBT HOLDINGS BY RATINGS. During the period ended December 31, 1996, the
percentage of the assets of the following Series invested in debt securities in
each of the rating categories of S&P and the debt securities not rated by an
established rating service, determined on a dollar weighted average, were:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            PERCENTAGE OF NET ASSETS
                       ----------------------------------
                        PPM AMERICA/    SALOMON BROTHERS/
                       JNL HIGH YIELD      JNL GLOBAL
     S&P RATING         BOND SERIES        BOND SERIES
     ----------        --------------   -----------------
<S>                    <C>              <C>
AAA..................          0%             28.05%
AA...................          0%              1.78%
A....................          0%              0.45%
BBB..................       2.05%              4.09%
BB...................      28.43%              6.83%
B....................      66.23%             29.51%
CCC..................       0.81%              2.84%
CC...................          0%                 0%
C....................          0%                 0%
D....................          0%                 0%
Not Rated............       2.48%             26.45%
</TABLE>
 
     HYBRID INSTRUMENTS. These instruments can combine the characteristics of
securities, futures and options. For example, the principal amount, redemption
or conversion terms of a security could be related to the market price of some
commodity, currency or securities index. Such securities may bear interest or
pay dividends at below market (or even relatively nominal) rates. Under certain
conditions, the redemption value of such an investment could be zero. Hybrids
can have volatile prices and limited liquidity and their use by a Series may not
be successful.
 
     MORTGAGE- AND ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES. A Series may invest in mortgage- and
asset-backed securities. These securities are subject to prepayment risk, that
is, the possibility that prepayments on the underlying mortgages or other loans
will cause the principal and interest on the mortgage- and asset-backed
securities to be paid prior to their stated maturities. A sub-adviser will
consider estimated prepayment rates in calculating the average weighted
maturities of the Series. Unscheduled prepayments are more likely to accelerate
during periods of declining long-term interest rates. In the event of a
prepayment during a period of declining interest rates, a Series may be required
to invest the unanticipated proceeds at a lower interest rate. Prepayments
during such periods will also limit a Series' ability to participate in as large
a market gain as may be experienced with a comparable security not subject to
prepayment.
 
     The Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series may purchase stripped
mortgage-backed securities, which may be considered derivative mortgage-backed
securities, which may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S.
Government or by private entities. Stripped
 
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<PAGE>   108
 
mortgage-backed securities have greater volatility than other types of
mortgage-backed securities. Stripped mortgage-backed securities are structured
with two or more classes that receive different proportions of the interest and
principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. In the most extreme case,
one class will receive all of the interest, while the other class will receive
all of the principal. The yield to maturity of such mortgage backed securities
that are purchased at a substantial discount or premium are extremely sensitive
to changes in interest rates as well as to the rate of principal payments
(including prepayments) on the related underlying mortgage assets.
 
     MORTGAGE DOLLAR ROLLS. Certain Series may enter into mortgage "dollar
rolls" in which a Series sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in the
current month and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar
(same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified future date. During
the roll period, a Series foregoes principal and interest paid on the
mortgage-backed securities. A Series is compensated by the interest earned on
the cash proceeds of the initial sale and from negotiated fees paid by brokers
offered as an inducement to the Series to "roll over" its purchase commitments.
A Series may only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a specific type
of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position which matures on
or before the forward settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. At the
time a Series enters into a mortgage "dollar roll", it will establish a
segregated account with its custodian bank in which it will maintain cash, U.S.
Government securities or other liquid high grade debt obligations equal in value
to its obligations in respect of dollar rolls, and accordingly, such dollar
rolls will not be considered borrowings. Mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk
that the market value of the securities the Series is obligated to repurchase
under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. In the event the
buyer of securities under a mortgage dollar roll files for bankruptcy or becomes
insolvent, the Series' use of proceeds of the dollar roll may be restricted
pending a determination by the other party, or its trustee or receiver, whether
to enforce the Series' obligation to repurchase the securities.
 
     COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS). A Series may invest in CMOs.
CMOs are bonds that are collateralized by whole loan mortgages or mortgage pass-
through securities. In recent years, new types of CMO structures have evolved.
These include floating rate CMOs, planned amortization classes, accrual bonds,
and CMO residuals. Under certain of these new structures, given classes of CMOs
have priority over others with respect to the receipt of prepayments on the
mortgages. Therefore, depending on the type of CMOs in which the Series invests,
the investment may be subject to a greater or lesser risk of prepayment than
other types of mortgage-related securities.
 
     The primary risk of any mortgage security is the uncertainty of the timing
of cash flows. For CMOs, the primary risk results from the rate of prepayments
on the underlying mortgages serving as collateral. An increase or decrease in
prepayment rates (resulting primarily from a decrease or increase in mortgage
interest rates) will affect the yield, average life, and price of CMOs. The
prices of certain CMOs, depending on their structure and the rate of
prepayments, can be volatile. Some CMOs may also not be as liquid as other
securities.
 
     REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS ("REITS"). The REITs in which a Series may
invest include equity REITs, which own real estate properties, and mortgage
REITs, which make construction, development and long-term mortgage loans. The
value of an equity REIT may be affected by changes in the value of the
underlying property, while a mortgage REIT may be affected by the quality of the
credit extended. The performance of both types of REITs depends upon conditions
in the real estate industry, management skills and the amount of cash flow. The
risks associated with REITs include defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation,
failure to qualify as a "pass-through" entity under the Federal tax law, failure
to qualify as an exempt entity under the 1940 Act, and the fact that REITs are
not diversified.
 
     PORTFOLIO TURNOVER. To a limited extent, a Series may engage in short-term
transactions if such transactions further its investment objective. A Series may
sell one security and simultaneously purchase another of comparable quality or
simultaneously purchase and sell the same security to take advantage of
short-term differentials in bond yields or otherwise purchase individual
securities in anticipation of relatively short-term price gains. The rate of
portfolio turnover will not be a determining factor in the purchase and sale of
such securities. However, certain tax rules may restrict the Series' ability to
sell securities in some circumstances when the security has been held for less
than three months. Increased portfolio turnover necessarily results in
correspondingly higher costs including brokerage commissions, dealer mark-ups
and other transaction costs on the sale of securities and reinvestment in other
securities, and may result in the acceleration of taxable gains.
 
     REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS AND REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. A Series may
invest in repurchase or reverse repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement
involves the purchase of a security by a Series and a simultaneous agreement
(generally by a bank or dealer) to repurchase that security from the Series at a
specified price and date or upon demand. This technique offers a method of
 
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<PAGE>   109
 
earning income on idle cash. The repurchase agreement is effectively secured by
the value of the underlying security. A risk associated with repurchase
agreements is the failure of the seller to repurchase the securities as agreed,
which may cause a Series to suffer a loss if the market value of such securities
declines before they can be liquidated on the open market. In the event of
bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, a Series may encounter delays and incur
costs in liquidating the underlying security.
 
     When a Series invests in a reverse repurchase agreement, it sells a
portfolio security to another party, such as a bank or a broker-dealer, in
return for cash, and agrees to buy the security back at a future date and price.
Reverse repurchase agreements may be used to provide cash to satisfy unusually
heavy redemption requests or for other temporary or emergency purposes without
the necessity of selling portfolio securities or to earn additional income on
portfolio securities, such as Treasury bills and notes.
 
     SHORT SALES. Each Series may sell securities "short against the box." While
a short sale is the sale of a security the Series does not own, it is "against
the box" if at all times when the short position is open the Series owns an
equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable
without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the
securities sold short.
 
     U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES AND CUSTODIAL RECEIPTS. Obligations issued or
guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities include Treasury bills, notes and bonds and Government
National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") certificates which are supported by the
full faith and credit of the United States; others, such as those of the Federal
Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the
Treasury; others, such as those of the Federal National Mortgage Association
("FNMA"), are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to
purchase the agency's obligations; and still others, such as those of the
Student Loan Marketing Association, are supported only by the credit of the
instrumentality. No assurance can be given that the U.S. Government will provide
financial support to U.S. Government agencies or instrumentalities in the
future, other than as set forth above, since it is not obligated to do so by
law.
 
     WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES. A Series may purchase securities on a when-issued,
delayed delivery or forward commitment basis. Actual payment for and delivery of
such securities does not take place until some time in the future -- i.e.,
beyond normal settlement. The Series does not earn interest on such securities
until settlement and bears the risk of market value fluctuations during the
period between the purchase and settlement dates. The series segregate and
maintain at all times cash, cash equivalents, or other high quality liquid debt
securities in an amount at least equal to the amount of outstanding commitments
for when-issued securities.
 
     ZERO COUPON AND PAY-IN-KIND BONDS. A Series may invest up to 10% of its
assets in zero coupon bonds or strips. Zero coupon bonds do not make regular
interest payments; rather, they are sold at a discount from face value.
Principal and accreted discount (representing interest accrued but not paid) are
paid at maturity. Strips are debt securities that are stripped of their interest
after the securities are issued, but otherwise are comparable to zero coupon
bonds. The market value of strips and zero coupon bonds generally fluctuates in
response to changes in interest rates to a greater degree than interest-paying
securities of comparable term and quality. A Series may also purchase
pay-in-kind bonds. Pay-in-kind bonds pay all or a portion of their interest in
the form of debt or equity securities.
 
     Zero coupon and pay-in-kind bonds tend to be subject to greater price
fluctuations in response to changes in interest rates than are ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. The value of zero
coupon securities appreciates more during periods of declining interest rates
and depreciates more during periods of rising interest rates than ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. Zero coupon securities
and pay-in-kind bonds may be issued by a wide variety of corporate and
governmental issuers.
 
     Current federal income tax law requires the holder of a zero coupon
security, certain pay-in-kind bonds and certain other securities acquired at a
discount (such as Brady Bonds) to accrue income with respect to these securities
prior to the receipt of cash payments. Accordingly, to avoid liability for
federal income and excise taxes, a Series may be required to distribute income
accrued with respect to these securities and may have to dispose of portfolio
securities under disadvantageous circumstances in order to generate cash to
satisfy these distribution requirements.
 
INVESTMENT RISKS
 
  FOREIGN SECURITIES
 
     Investments in foreign securities, including those of foreign governments,
involve risks that are different in some respects from investments in securities
of U.S. issuers, such as the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currencies
in which they are denominated, a heightened risk of adverse political and
economic developments and, with respect to certain countries, the possibility of
expropriation, nationalization or confiscatory taxation or
 
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<PAGE>   110
 
limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of a Series. Securities of
some foreign issuers in many cases are less liquid and more volatile than
securities of comparable domestic issuers. There also may be less publicly
available information about foreign issuers than domestic issuers, and foreign
issuers generally are not subject to the uniform accounting, auditing and
financial reporting standards, practices and requirements applicable to domestic
issuers. Certain markets may require payment for securities before delivery. A
Series may have limited legal recourse against the issuer in the event of a
default on a debt instrument. Delays may be encountered in settling securities
transactions in certain foreign markets and a Series will incur costs in
converting foreign currencies into U.S. dollars. Bank custody charges are
generally higher for foreign securities. The JNL Global Equities, Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond, and T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment
Series are particularly susceptible to such risks. ADRs do not involve the same
direct currency and liquidity risks as foreign securities.
 
     The considerations noted above may be intensified in the case of
investments in developing countries or countries with limited or developing
capital markets. In particular, developing countries may have relatively
unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries, and securities
markets that trade a small number of securities. Securities of issuers located
in developing countries may have limited marketability and may be subject to
more abrupt or erratic price fluctuations.
 
     At times, securities held by a Series may be listed on foreign exchanges or
traded in foreign markets which are open on days (such as Saturday) when a
Series does not compute its price or accept orders for the purchase, redemption
or exchange of its shares. As a result, the net asset value of a Series may be
significantly affected by trading on days when shareholders cannot make
transactions.
 
     The share price of a Series that invests in foreign securities will reflect
the movements of both the prices of the portfolio securities and the currencies
in which such securities are denominated. A Series' foreign investments may
cause changes in a Series' share price that have a low correlation with movement
in the U.S. markets. Because most of the foreign securities in which a Series
invests will be denominated in foreign currencies, or otherwise will have values
that depend on the performance of foreign currencies relative to the U.S.
dollar, the relative strength of the U.S. dollar may be an important factor in
the performance of a Series, depending on the extent of the Series' foreign
investments.
 
     A Series may employ certain strategies in order to manage exchange rate
risks. For example, a Series may hedge some or all of its investments
denominated in or exposed to a foreign currency against a decline in the value
of that currency. A Series may enter into contracts to sell that foreign
currency for U. S. dollars (not exceeding the value of a Series' assets
denominated in or exposed to that currency) or by participating in options or
futures contracts with respect to such currency ("position hedge"). A Series
could also hedge that position by selling a second currency, which is expected
to perform similarly to the currency in which portfolio investments are
denominated, for U.S. dollars ("proxy hedge"). A Series may also enter into a
forward contract to sell the currency in which the security is denominated for a
second currency that is expected to perform better relative to the U.S. dollar
if the sub-adviser believes there is a reasonable degree of correlation between
movements in the two currencies ("cross hedge"). In addition, when a Series
anticipates purchasing securities denominated in or exposed to a particular
currency, the Series may enter into a forward contract to purchase or sell such
currency in exchange for the dollar or another currency ("anticipatory hedge").
 
     These strategies minimize the effect of currency appreciation as well as
depreciation, but do not protect against a decline in the underlying value of
the hedged security. In addition, such strategies may reduce or eliminate the
opportunity to profit from increases in the value of the original currency and
may adversely impact a Series' performance if the sub-adviser's projection of
future exchange rates is inaccurate.
 
  FUTURES, OPTIONS AND OTHER DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
     The use of futures, options, forward contracts, and swaps ("derivative
instruments") exposes a Series to additional investment risks and transaction
costs. If a sub-adviser seeks to protect a Series against potential adverse
movements in the securities, foreign currency or interest rate markets using
these instruments, and such markets do not move in a direction adverse to the
Series, that Series could be left in a less favorable position than if such
strategies had not been used. Risks inherent in the use of futures, options,
forward contracts and swaps include (1) the risk that interest rates, securities
prices and currency markets will not move in the directions anticipated; (2)
imperfect correlation between the price of derivative instruments and movements
in the prices of the securities, interest rates or currencies being hedged; (3)
the fact that skills needed to use these strategies are different from those
needed to select portfolio securities; (4) the possible absence of a liquid
secondary market for any particular instrument at any time; and (5) the possible
need to defer closing out certain hedged positions to avoid adverse tax
consequences.
 
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<PAGE>   111
 
  HIGH YIELD/HIGH RISK BONDS
 
     Lower rated bonds involve a higher degree of credit risk, which is the risk
that the issuer will not make interest or principal payments when due. In the
event of an unanticipated default, a Series would experience a reduction in its
income, a decline in the market value of the securities so affected and a
decline in the value of its shares. More careful analysis of the financial
condition of issuers of lower rated securities is therefore necessary. During an
economic downturn or substantial period of rising interest rates, highly
leveraged issuers may experience financial stress which could adversely affect
their ability to service principal and interest payment obligations, to meet
projected business goals and to obtain additional financing.
 
     The market prices of lower rated securities are generally less sensitive to
interest rate changes than higher rated investments, but more sensitive to
adverse economic or political changes, or individual developments specific to
the issuer. Periods of economic or political uncertainty and change can be
expected to result in volatility of prices of these securities. Since the last
major economic recession, there has been a substantial increase in the use of
high-yield debt securities to fund highly leveraged corporate acquisitions and
restructurings, so past experience with high-yield securities in a prolonged
economic downturn may not provide an accurate indication of future performance
during such periods. Lower rated securities also may have less liquid markets
than higher rated securities, and their liquidity as well as their value may be
more severely affected by adverse economic conditions. Many high-yield bonds do
not trade frequently. When they do trade, their price may be substantially
higher or lower than had been expected. A lack of liquidity also means that
judgment may play a bigger role in valuing the securities. Adverse publicity and
investor perceptions as well as new or proposed laws may also have a greater
negative impact on the market for lower rated bonds.
 
     A Series may also invest in unrated debt securities of foreign and domestic
issuers. Unrated debt, while not necessarily of lower quality than rated
securities, may not have as broad a market. Sovereign debt of foreign
governments is generally rated by country, because these ratings do not take
into account individual factors relevant to each issue and may not be updated
regularly. Because of the size and perceived demand of the issue, among other
factors, certain municipalities may not incur the costs of obtaining a rating.
The sub-adviser will analyze the credit-worthiness of the issuer, as well as any
financial institution or other party responsible for payments on the security,
in determining whether to purchase unrated municipal bonds. (See Appendix A for
a description of bond rating categories).
 
  HIGH YIELD FOREIGN SOVEREIGN DEBT SECURITIES
 
     Investing in fixed and floating rate high yield foreign sovereign debt
securities will expose the Series investing in such securities to the direct or
indirect consequences of political, social or economic changes in the countries
that issue the securities. (See "Foreign Securities"). The ability and
willingness of sovereign obligors in developing and emerging market countries or
the governmental authorities that control repayment of their external debt to
pay principal and interest on such debt when due may depend on general economic
and political conditions within the relevant country. Countries such as those in
which a Series may invest have historically experienced, and may continue to
experience, high rates of inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate trade
difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment. Many of these countries are
also characterized by political uncertainty or instability. Additional factors
which may influence the ability or willingness to service debt include, but are
not limited to, a country's cash flow situation, the availability of sufficient
foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of its debt
service burden to the economy as a whole, and its government's policy towards
the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other international
agencies.
 
  HYBRID INSTRUMENTS
 
     The risks of investing in hybrid instruments reflect a combination of the
risks of investing in securities, options, futures and currencies, including
volatility and lack of liquidity. Reference is made to the discussion of
futures, options, and forward contracts herein for a discussion of these risks.
Further, the prices of the hybrid instrument and the related commodity or
currency may not move in the same direction or at the same time. Hybrid
instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or
even relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear
interest at above market rates but bear an increased risk of principal loss. In
addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid instruments could take place
in an over-the-counter or in a private transaction between the Series and the
seller of the hybrid instrument, the creditworthiness of the counter-party to
the transaction would be a risk factor which the Series would have to consider.
Hybrid instruments also may not be subject to regulation of the CFTC, which
generally regulates the trading of commodity futures by U.S. persons, the SEC,
which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any
other governmental regulatory authority.
 
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  MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
 
     In addition to the usual risks associated with income investing, the value
of municipal obligations can be affected by changes in the actual or perceived
credit quality of municipal obligations held by a Series. The credit quality of
a municipal obligation can be affected by, among other factors, the financial
condition of the issuer or guarantor, the issuer's future borrowing plans and
sources of revenue, the economic feasibility of the revenue bond project or
general borrowing purpose, political or economic developments in the region
where the security is issued, and the liquidity of the security. Because
municipal obligations are generally traded over-the-counter, the liquidity of a
particular issue often depends on the willingness of dealers to make a market in
the security. The liquidity of some municipal issues may be enhanced by demand
features, which enable a Series to demand payment on short notice from the
issuer or a financial intermediary.
 
  WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES
 
     The price of such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is
fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment
take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date occurs within 90 days
of the purchase for when-issued securities, but may be substantially longer for
forward commitments. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by the Series to the issuer and no interest accrues to the
Series. The purchase of these securities will result in a loss if their value
declines prior to the settlement date. This could occur, for example, if
interest rates increase prior to settlement. The longer the period between
purchase and settlement, the greater the risks. At the time the Series makes the
commitment to purchase these securities, it will record the transaction and
reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset value. The Series
will segregate for these securities by maintaining cash and/or liquid debt
securities with its custodian bank equal in value to commitments for them during
the time between the purchase and the settlement. Therefore, the longer this
period, the longer the period during which alternative investment options are
not available to the Series (to the extent of the securities used for cover).
Such securities either will mature or, if necessary, be sold on or before the
settlement date.
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   113
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
     Under Massachusetts law and the Trust's Declaration of Trust and By-Laws,
the management of the business and affairs of the Trust is the responsibility of
the Trustees.
 
     JNFSI, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan 48911, is the investment
adviser of each Series and provides each Series with professional investment
supervision and management. JNFSI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Jackson
National Life Insurance Company, which is in turn wholly owned by Prudential
Corporation plc, the largest life insurance company in the United Kingdom. JNFSI
has been providing investment advisory services to management investment
companies since 1992 and as of December 31, 1996, had approximately $1 billion
under management.
 
     JNFSI provides preparation of financial statements, tax services, and
regulatory reports to the Trust. JNFSI also selects, contracts with and
compensates sub-advisers to manage the investment and reinvestment of the assets
of the Series of the Trust. JNFSI monitors the compliance of such sub-advisers
with the investment objectives and related policies of each Series and reviews
the performance of such sub-advisers and reports periodically on such
performance to the Trustees of the Trust.
 
     As compensation for its services, JNFSI receives a fee from the Trust
computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as an
annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of the Series. The
fees, which are accrued daily and payable monthly, are calculated on the basis
of the average of all valuations of net assets of each Series made at the close
of business on each business day of the Trust during the period for which such
fees are paid through the date of calculation. Once the average net assets of a
Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is reduced with respect to such excess.
The following is a schedule of the fees each Series currently is obligated to
pay JNFSI.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $50 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M -- MILLION)                                                 $50 M    $150 M    $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- ---------------                                                 -----    ------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%    1.00%       .95%       .90%      .90%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%    .975%      .975%       .95%      .90%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series*...................................     .90%     .90%       .85%       .80%      .80%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series**............................     .90%     .90%       .85%       .80%      .80%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series***..........................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%     .60%      .575%       .55%     .525%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%     .70%       .65%       .60%      .55%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .80%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%    1.05%      1.00%       .95%      .90%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .90%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
  * Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was .90%,
    .85%, .80%, .75%, and .70%, respectively.
 
 ** Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series was
    .75%, .70%, .675%, .65% and .625%, respectively.
 
*** Prior to May 1, 1997, the fee for the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was
    .90%, .80%, .75%, .70% and .65%, respectively.
 
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISERS
 
     The organizations described below act as sub-advisers to the Trust and
certain of its Series pursuant to Sub-Advisory Agreements with JNFSI. Under the
Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-advisers manage the investment and reinvestment
of the assets of the respective Series for which they are responsible. Each of
the sub-advisers discharges its responsibilities subject to the policies of the
Trustees and the oversight and supervision of JNFSI, which pays the
sub-advisers' fees.
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   114
 
     Fred Alger Management, Inc., ("Alger Management") which is located at 75
Maiden Lane, New York, New York 10038, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Alger
Growth Series. Alger Management is generally engaged in the business of
rendering investment advisory services to institutions and, to a lesser extent,
individuals. Alger Management has been engaged in the business of rendering
investment advisory services since 1964 and, as of December 31, 1996, had
approximately $7.1 billion under management, $5.2 billion in mutual fund
accounts and $1.9 billion in other advisory accounts. Alger Management is a
wholly owned subsidiary of Fred Alger & Company, Inc. which in turn is a wholly
owned subsidiary of Alger Associates, Inc., a financial services holding
company. Fred M. Alger III and his brother, David D. Alger are majority
shareholders of Alger Associates, Inc. and may be deemed to control that company
and its subsidiaries.
 
     Janus Capital Corporation ("Janus Capital"), a Colorado corporation with
principal offices at 100 Fillmore Street, Denver, Colorado 80206, serves as
sub-adviser to the JNL Capital Growth Series, the JNL Aggressive Growth Series
and the JNL Global Equities Series. Janus Capital is an investment adviser with
approximately $50 billion in assets under management. Kansas City Southern
Industries, Inc. ("KCSI") owns approximately 83% of the outstanding voting stock
of Janus Capital, most of which it acquired in 1984. KCSI is a publicly-traded
holding company whose primary subsidiaries are engaged in transportation and
financial services. Thomas H. Bailey, President and Chairman of the Board of
Janus Capital, owns approximately 12% of its voting stock and, by agreement with
KCSI, selects a majority of Janus Capital's Board.
 
     PPM America, Inc. ("PPM"), which is located at 225 West Wacker Drive,
Chicago, Illinois 60606, serves as sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL Balanced
Series*, the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL
Money Market Series. PPM, an affiliate of JNFSI, is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Prudential Portfolio Managers Ltd., ("PPM Ltd.") an investment management
company engaged in global money management, which is in turn wholly owned by
Prudential Corporation plc. PPM Ltd. and its subsidiaries manage over $120
billion in various currencies and markets. PPM currently manages over $26
billion of Jackson National Life Insurance Company assets. Additionally, PPM
manages assets of over $5.7 billion for other affiliated companies and over $878
million for non-affiliated entities.
 
     Putnam Investment Management, Inc. ("Putnam"), located at One Post Office
Square, Boston, Massachusetts 02109, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Putnam
Growth Series* and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series*. Putnam has been managing
mutual funds since 1937. Putnam and its affiliates had approximately $173
billion in assets under management as of December 31, 1996. Putnam is a
subsidiary of Putnam Investment, Inc., which is wholly owned by Marsh & McLennan
Companies, Inc., a publicly-owned holding company whose principal businesses are
international insurance and reinsurance brokerage, employee benefit consulting
and investment management.
 
     Rowe Price-Fleming International, Inc. ("Price-Fleming"), located at 100
East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T.
Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series. Price-Fleming was founded
in 1979 as a joint venture between T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and Robert
Fleming Holdings Limited. Price-Fleming is one of America's largest
international mutual fund asset managers with approximately $18 billion under
management in its offices in Baltimore, London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore.
 
     Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc ("SBAM") serves as sub-adviser to the
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S.
Government & Quality Bond Series. SBAM is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary
of Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. which is, in turn, wholly owned by
Salomon Inc. ("SI"). SBAM was incorporated in 1987, and, together with
affiliates in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and Hong Kong, SBAM provides a broad
range of fixed income and equity investment advisory services to various
individual and institutional clients located throughout the world and serves as
sub-advisor to various investment companies. In providing such investment
advisory services, SBAM has access to SI's more than 400 economists, mortgage
bond, sovereign and equity analysts. As of December 31, 1996, SBAM and its
worldwide investment affiliates managed approximately $17.8 billion. SBAM's
business offices are located at 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048.
 
     In connection with SBAM's service as sub-adviser to the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series, SBAM Limited, whose business address is
Victoria Plaza, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W OSB, England, provides
certain sub-advisory services to SBAM relating to currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the benefit of the
Series. SBAM Limited is compensated by SBAM at no additional expense to the
Trust. Like SBAM, SBAM Limited is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of
 
- ---------------
 
    *Prior to May 1, 1997, Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. served as
sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series and the JNL/Putnam Growth
Series, and PPM served as sub-adviser to the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series.
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   115
 
Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. SBAM Limited is a member of the Investment
Management Regulatory Organization Limited in the United Kingdom and is
registered as an investment adviser in the United States pursuant to the
Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
 
     T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("T. Rowe"), located at 100 East Pratt
Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series and the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth
Series. T. Rowe was founded in 1937 by the late Thomas Rowe Price, Jr. T. Rowe
and its affiliates manage over $95 billion for approximately 4.5 million
individual and institutional investor accounts, including limited and real
estate partnerships and other mutual funds.
 
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
 
     The following individuals are primarily responsible for the day-to-day
management of the particular Series as indicated below.
 
JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
     Helen Young Hayes is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Global Equities Series. Ms. Hayes joined Janus Capital in 1987. She holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
     James P. Goff is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Capital Growth Series. Mr. Goff joined Janus Capital in 1988. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
     Warren B. Lammert is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Aggressive Growth Series. Mr. Lammert joined Janus Capital in 1987. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and a Master of Science in
Economic History from the London School of Economics. He is a Chartered
Financial Analyst.
 
JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
 
     David D. Alger, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alger Management,
is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL/Alger Growth
Series. He has been employed by Alger Management as Executive Vice President and
Director of Research since 1971 and he serves as portfolio manager for other
mutual funds and investment accounts managed by Alger Management. Also
participating in the management of the Series are Ronald Tartaro and Seilai
Khoo. Mr. Tartaro has been employed by Alger Management since 1990 and he serves
as a senior research analyst. Prior to 1990, he was a member of the technical
staff at AT&T Bell Laboratories. Ms. Khoo has been employed by Alger Management
since 1989 and she serves as a senior research analyst.
 
JNL/PUTNAM GROWTH SERIES
 
     Carol C. McMullen has responsibility for the day-to-day management of the
JNL/Putnam Growth Series. Ms. McMullen has been a Managing Director of Putnam
since 1995. Prior to joining Putnam, Ms. McMullen was Senior Vice President of
Baring Asset Management. Ms. McMullen has had responsibility for the day-to-day
management of the JNL/Putnam Growth Series since May 1, 1997.
 
JNL/PUTNAM VALUE EQUITY SERIES
 
     Anthony I. Kreisel a Managing Director of Putnam, has responsibility for
the day-to-day management of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series. Mr. Kreisel has
been an investment professional at Putnam since 1986. Mr. Kreisel has had
responsibility for the day-to-day management of the JNL/Putnam Value Equity
Series since May 1, 1997.
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL BALANCED SERIES
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
 
     In its capacity as sub-adviser, PPM supervises and manages the investment
portfolios of the PPM America/ JNL Balanced Series, the PPM America/JNL High
Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series and directs the
purchase and sale of each Series' investment securities. PPM utilizes teams of
investment professionals acting together to manage the assets of the Series. The
teams meet regularly to review portfolio holdings and to discuss purchase and
sale activity. The teams adjust holdings in the portfolios as they deem
appropriate in the pursuit of the Series' investment objectives. PPM has
supervised and managed the investment portfolio of the PPM America/JNL Balanced
Series since May 1, 1997, and has supervised and managed the investment
portfolios of the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL
Money Market
 
                                       32
<PAGE>   116
 
Series since the commencement of operations of each Series.
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
 
     Steven Guterman is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series and the mortgage-
backed securities and U.S. Government securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Guterman co-manages the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series with Roger Lavan.
 
     Mr. Guterman, who joined SBAM in 1990, is a Managing Director of Salomon
Brothers Inc and a Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager of SBAM,
responsible for SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios which
invest primarily in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government issues. Mr.
Guterman also serves as portfolio manager for two offshore mortgage funds and a
number of institutional clients. Mr. Guterman joined Salomon Brothers Inc in
1983, working initially in the mortgage research group where he became a
Research Director and later traded derivative mortgage-backed securities.
 
     Mr. Lavan joined SBAM in 1990 and is a Portfolio Manager and Quantitative
Fixed Income Analyst, responsible for working for senior portfolio managers to
monitor and analyze market relationships and identify and implement relative
value transactions in SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios
which invest in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government securities. Prior
to joining SBAM, Mr. Lavan spent four years analyzing portfolios for Salomon
Brothers Inc's Fixed Income Sales Group and Product Support Divisions.
 
     Peter J. Wilby is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the high yield and emerging market debt securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Beth Semmel assists Mr. Wilby in the day-to-day
management of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Wilby, who joined
SBAM in 1989, is a Managing Director of Salomon Brothers Inc and SBAM and Senior
Portfolio Manager of SBAM, responsible for investment company and institutional
portfolios which invest in high yield non-U.S. and U.S. corporate debt
securities and high yield foreign sovereign debt securities. From 1984 to 1989,
Mr. Wilby was employed by Prudential Capital Management Group ("Prudential")
where he served as Director of Prudential's credit research unit and as a
corporate and sovereign credit analyst with Prudential. Mr. Wilby also managed
high yield bonds and leveraged equities in the mutual funds and institutional
portfolios at Prudential. Ms. Semmel is a Director and Portfolio Manager of SBAM
and a Director of Salomon Brothers Inc. Ms. Semmel joined SBAM in May of 1993,
where she manages high yield portfolios. Prior to joining SBAM, Ms. Semmel spent
four years as a high yield bond analyst at Morgan Stanley Asset Management.
 
     David J. Scott is primarily responsible for currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Prior to joining SBAM Limited in April 1994,
Mr. Scott worked for four years at JP Morgan Investment Management ("JP Morgan")
where he was responsible for global and non-dollar portfolios for clients
including departments of various governments, pension funds and insurance
companies. Before joining JP Morgan, Mr. Scott worked for three years at Mercury
Asset Management where he was responsible for captive insurance portfolios and
products.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
     Robert W. Smith is responsible for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series. Mr. Smith is a Vice President and Equity
Portfolio Manager for T. Rowe and Price-Fleming. He is also responsible for the
North American component of other investment company and institutional client
portfolios. Prior to joining T. Rowe in 1992, Mr. Smith was employed as an
Investment Analyst for Massachusetts Financial Services. He earned a BS (finance
and economics) from the University of Delaware and an MBA (finance) from the
Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, University of Virginia. Mr.
Smith has had responsibility for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series since February 21, 1997.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series has an
investment advisory group that has day-to-day responsibility for managing the
Series and developing and executing the Series' investment program. The Series'
advisory group is composed of the following members: Martin G. Wade, Christopher
D. Alderson, Peter B. Askew, Mark J.T. Edward, John R. Ford, James B.M. Seddon,
Benedict R.F. Thomas, and David J.J. Warren.
 
     Martin Wade joined Price-Fleming in 1979 and has 26 years of experience
with the Fleming Group in research, client service, and investment management.
 
                                       33
<PAGE>   117
 
(Fleming Group includes Robert Fleming and/or Jardine Fleming Group Limited).
Christopher Alderson joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has nine years of
experience with the Fleming Group in research and portfolio management. Peter
Askew joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has 20 years of experience managing
multi-currency fixed income portfolios. Mark Edwards joined Price-Fleming in
1986 and has 14 years of experience in financial analysis. John Ford joined
Price-Fleming in 1982 and has 15 years of experience with the Fleming Group in
research and portfolio management. James Seddon joined Price-Fleming in 1987 and
has eight years of experience in investment management. Benedict Thomas joined
Price-Fleming in 1988 and has six years of portfolio management experience.
David Warren joined Price-Fleming in 1984 and has 15 years of experience in
equity research, fixed income research and portfolio management.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series has an Investment Advisory
Committee composed of the following members: Brian W. Berghuis, Chairman, James
A.C. Kennedy, and John F. Wakeman. The Committee Chairman has day to day
responsibility for managing the Series and works with the Committee in
developing and executing the Series' investment program. Mr. Berghuis has been
managing investments since joining T. Rowe in 1985.
 
SUB-ADVISORY ARRANGEMENTS
 
     Under the terms of each of the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-adviser
manages the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the assigned Series,
subject to the supervision of the Trustees of the Trust. The sub-adviser
formulates a continuous investment program for each such Series consistent with
its investment objectives and policies outlined in this Prospectus. Each
sub-adviser implements such programs by purchases and sales of securities and
regularly reports to JNFSI and the Trustees of the Trust with respect to the
implementation of such programs.
 
     As compensation for their services, the sub-advisers receive fees from
JNFSI computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as
an annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of such Series. The
fees are calculated on the basis of the average of all valuations of net assets
of each Series made at the close of business on each business day of the Trust
during the period for which such fees are paid through the date of calculation.
Once the average net assets of a Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is
reduced with respect to such excess. The following is a schedule of the
management fees JNFSI currently is obligated to pay the sub-advisers out of the
advisory fee it receives from each Series as specified above:
 
                                       34
<PAGE>   118
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           $0 TO    $50 TO    $100 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M - MILLION)                                             $50 M    $100 M    $150 M     $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- --------------                                             -----    ------    -------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                        <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series*..........................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Capital Growth Series*.............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Global Equities Series*............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................     .55%      .55%       .55%       .55%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Putnam Growth Series**.............................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .35%       .35%
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series***......................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .35%       .35%
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series**......................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series.................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................     .20%      .15%       .15%      .125%      .10%      .075%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................    .375%      .35%       .35%       .30%      .30%       .25%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................    .225%     .225%      .225%      .175%      .15%       .10%
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $20 TO    $50 TO
                                                                $20 M    $50 M     $200 M      $200 M+
                                                                -----    ------    ------      -------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>         <C>
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .45%      .40%     .40%****     .40%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     .75%      .60%     .50%         .50%****
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .60%      .50%     .50%****     .50%
</TABLE>
 
   * Prior to September 16, 1996, the sub-advisory fees payable to Janus for
     these Series were: $0 to $50 million -- .60%; $50 to $150 million -- .55%;
     $150 to $300 million -- .45%; $300 to $500 million -- .40%; over $500
     million -- .40%.
 
  ** Prior to May 1, 1997, the sub-advisory fees for these Series were payable
     to Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. and were: $0 to $50 million -- .50%;
     $50 to $150 million -- .40%; $150 to $300 million -- .30%; $300 to $500
     million -- .25%; over $500 million -- .20%.
 
 *** Prior to May 1, 1997, the sub-advisory fee for this Series was payable to
     PPM and was: $0 to $50 million -- .25%; $50 to $150 million -- .20%; $150
     to $300 million -- .175%; $300 to $500 million -- .15%; over $500 million
     -- .125%.
 
**** When average assets exceed this amount, the sub-advisory fee asterisked is
     applicable to all amounts in this Series.
 
     With respect to the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and in
connection with the advisory consulting agreement between Salomon Brothers and
SBAM Limited, Salomon Brothers will pay SBAM Limited, as full compensation for
all services provided under the advisory consulting agreement, a portion of its
investment management fee. The amount payable to SBAM Limited will be equal to
the fee payable under Salomon Brothers' sub-advisory agreement multiplied by the
portion of the assets of the Series that SBAM Limited has been delegated to
manage divided by the current value of the net assets of the Series.
 
OTHER TRUST EXPENSES
 
     In addition to the investment advisory fee, the Trust incurs expenses,
including legal, auditing and accounting expenses, Trustees' fees and expenses,
insurance premiums, brokers' commissions, taxes and governmental fees, expenses
of issue or redemption of shares, expenses of registering or qualifying shares
for sale, reports and notices to shareholders, and fees and disbursements of
custodians, transfer agents, registrars, shareholder servicing agents and
dividend disbursing agents, and certain expenses with respect to membership fees
of industry associations.
 
                                       35
<PAGE>   119
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company purchases the shares of the Series at their net asset
value using premiums received on Policies issued by Accounts. These Accounts are
funded by shares of the Trust. There is no sales charge. All shares are sold at
net asset value.
 
     The net asset value per share of each Series is determined at the close of
regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern
time) each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open. The net asset value per
share is calculated by adding the value of all securities and other assets of a
Series, deducting its liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares
outstanding.
 
     Shares of the Trust are currently sold primarily to separate accounts of
Jackson National Life Insurance Company, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan
48911 to fund the benefits under variable insurance or annuity Policies.
Further, it is anticipated that shares of the Trust will be sold to certain
qualified retirement plans.
 
     All investments in the Trust are credited to the shareholder's account in
the form of full and fractional shares of the designated Series (rounded to the
nearest 1/1000 of a share). The Trust does not issue share certificates.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                SHARE REDEMPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company separate account redeems shares to make benefit or
surrender payments under the terms of its Policies. Redemptions are processed on
any day on which the Trust is open for business and are effected at net asset
value next determined after the redemption order, in proper form, is received by
the Trust's transfer agent.
 
     The Trust may suspend the right of redemption only under the following
unusual circumstances:
 
     - when the New York Stock Exchange is closed (other than weekends and
       holidays) or trading is restricted;
 
     - when an emergency exists, making disposal of portfolio securities or the
       valuation of net assets not reasonably practicable; or
 
     - during any period when the SEC has by order permitted a suspension of
       redemption for the protection of shareholders.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     DESCRIPTION OF SHARES -- The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to
issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest
of each Series and to divide or combine such shares into a greater or lesser
number of shares without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial interests
in the Trust. Each share of a Series represents an equal proportional interest
in that Series with each other share. The Trust reserves the right to create a
number of different Series. In that case, the shares of each Series would
participate equally in the earnings, dividends, and assets of the particular
Series. Upon liquidation of a Series, its shareholders are entitled to share pro
rata in the net assets of such Series available for distribution to
shareholders.
 
     As of April 7, 1997, Jackson National Life Insurance Company owned 5.2% of
the outstanding shares of the Trust.
 
     SERIES TRANSACTIONS -- The Trust's portfolio transactions are executed
through brokers who are considered by the appropriate sub-adviser as able to
provide execution at the most favorable prices and in the most effective manner.
Portfolio security transactions may be executed through brokers who are
affiliated with the Trust, JNFSI or a sub-adviser. In addition, brokers may be
selected taking into account such brokers' assistance in the purchase of
variable annuity contracts funded by the Trust (although such assistance or
absence thereof is neither a qualifying nor a disqualifying factor in such
selection). See the Statement of Additional Information for more detailed
information.
 
     VOTING RIGHTS -- Except for matters affecting a particular Series, as
described below, all shares of the Trust have equal voting rights and may be
voted in the election of Trustees and on other matters submitted to the vote of
the shareholders. Shareholders' meetings ordinarily
 
                                       36
<PAGE>   120
 
will not be held unless required by the 1940 Act. As permitted by Massachusetts
law, there normally will be no shareholders' meetings for the purpose of
electing Trustees unless and until such time as fewer than a majority of the
Trustees holding office have been elected by shareholders. At that time, the
Trustees then in office will call a shareholders' meeting for the election of
Trustees. The Trustees must call a meeting of shareholders for the purpose of
voting upon the removal of any Trustee when requested to do so by the record
holders of 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. A Trustee may be removed
after the holders of record of not less than two-thirds of the outstanding
shares have declared that the Trustee be removed either by declaration in
writing or by votes cast in person or by proxy. Except as set forth above, the
Trustees shall continue to hold office and may appoint successor Trustees,
provided that immediately after the appointment of any successor Trustee, at
least two-thirds of the Trustees have been elected by the shareholders. Shares
do not have cumulative voting rights. Thus, holders of a majority of the shares
voting for the election of Trustees can elect all the Trustees. No amendment may
be made to the Declaration of Trust without the affirmative vote of a majority
of the outstanding shares of the Trust, except that amendments to conform the
Declaration to the requirements of applicable federal laws or regulations or the
regulated investment company provisions of the Code may be made by the Trustees
without the vote or consent of shareholders. If not terminated by the vote or
written consent of a majority of its outstanding shares, the Trust will continue
indefinitely.
 
     In matters affecting only a particular Series, the matter shall have been
effectively acted upon by a majority vote of that Series even though: (1) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of any other Series; or (2) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of the Trust.
 
     Shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the
Trust. The risk of a shareholder incurring any financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself
would be unable to meet its obligations. The Declaration of Trust contains an
express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust
and provides that notice of the disclaimer must be given in each agreement,
obligation or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or Trustees. The
Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of any shareholder held
personally liable for the obligations of the Trust and also provides for the
Trust to reimburse the shareholder for all legal and other expenses reasonably
incurred in connection with any such claim or liability.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust may from time to time advertise several types of historical
performance for the Series. The performance advertised will be based on
historical results and is not intended to indicate future performance. The
performance figures advertised for a Series may or may not reflect the effect of
any charges that are imposed under a variable annuity or variable life contract
that is funded by the Trust. Such charges, described in the variable annuity or
variable life prospectus, will have the effect of reducing the performance
described below.
 
     Each Series may advertise standardized average annual total return,
calculated in a manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
non-standardized total return. Standardized average annual total return will
show the percentage rate of return of a hypothetical initial investment of
$1,000 for the most recent one, five and ten year periods, or for a period
covering the time the Series has been in existence if the Series has not been in
existence for one of the prescribed periods. Because average annual total
returns tend to smooth out variations in the Series' returns, you should
recognize that they are not the same as actual year-by-year results. Non-
standardized total return may be for periods other than those required to be
presented or may otherwise differ from standardized average annual total return.
 
     Each Series may also advertise yield, and the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series may also advertise effective yield. Yield, as calculated by each Series
other than the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, refers to the annualized
income generated by an investment in the Series over a specified thirty-day
period. The yield is calculated by assuming that the income generated by the
investment during that thirty-day period is generated each thirty-day period
over a twelve-month period and is shown as a percentage of the investment.
Yield, as calculated by the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, is a measure of
the net dividend and interest income earned over a specific seven-day period
expressed as a percentage of the offering price of the Series. The yield is an
annualized figure, which means that it is assumed that the Series generates the
same level of net income over a 52-week period. Effective yield is calculated
under rules prescribed
 
                                       37
<PAGE>   121
 
by the Securities and Exchange Commission and assumes a weekly reinvestment of
income earned. The effective yield will be slightly higher than the yield due to
this compounding effect. Because yield accounting methods differ from the
methods used for financial reporting and tax accounting purposes, a Series'
yield may not equal its distribution rate, the income paid to a shareholder's
account, or the income reported in the Series' financial statements.
 
     The performance of the Series may be compared to the performance of other
mutual funds or mutual fund indices with similar objectives and policies as
reported by Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"), CDA Investment
Technologies, Inc. ("CDA") or Donoghue's Money Fund Report. Lipper and CDA
performance calculations are based upon changes in net asset value with all
dividends reinvested and do not include the effect of any sales charges. The
Series' performance may also be compared to that of the Consumer Price Index or
various unmanaged stock and bond indices including, but not limited to, Salomon
Brothers Broad Investment Grade Index, Lehman Brothers High Yield Index, Lehman
Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, Salomon Brothers Treasury Index, S&P MidCap 400
Index, Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index, Morgan Stanley Europe
and Australasia, Far East Equity Index, Russell 2000 Index, and S&P 500 Index.
 
     From time to time, a Series also may quote information from publications
including, but not limited to, the following: Morningstar, Inc., The Wall Street
Journal, Money Magazine, Forbes, Barron's, The New York Times, USA Today,
Institutional Investor and Registered Representative. Also, investors may want
to compare the historical returns of various investments, performance indices of
those investments or economic indicators, including but not limited to stocks,
bonds, certificates of deposit and other bank products, money market funds and
U.S. Treasury obligations. Certain of these alternative investments may offer
fixed rates of return and guaranteed principal, and may be insured. Economic
indicators may include, without limitation, indicators of market rate trends and
cost of funds, such as Federal Home Loan Bank Board 11th District Cost of Funds
Index (COFI).
 
     Each Series' shares are sold at net asset value. Each Series' returns will
fluctuate. Shares of a Series are redeemable by an investor at the then current
net asset value, which may be more or less than original cost. Additional
information concerning each Series' performance appears in the Statement of
Additional Information, and in the Trust's Annual Report to Shareholders which
may be obtained, without charge, by writing or calling the Trust.
 
     SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES -- All inquiries regarding the Trust should be
directed to the Trust at the telephone number or address shown on the cover page
of this Prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   TAX STATUS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust's policy is to meet the requirements of Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code. Each Series intends to distribute all its taxable net
investment income and capital gains to shareholders, and therefore, will not be
required to pay any federal income taxes.
 
     Each Series of the Trust is treated as a separate entity for purposes of
the regulated investment company provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and,
therefore, the assets, income, and distributions of each Series are considered
separately for purposes of determining whether or not the Series qualifies as a
regulated investment company.
 
                                       38
<PAGE>   122
 
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT
 
State Street Bank and Trust Company
1776 Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
 
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
Price Waterhouse LLP
100 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
 
LEGAL COUNSEL
 
Blazzard, Grodd & Hasenauer, P.C.
943 Post Road East
Westport, CT 06881
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.
5901 Executive Drive
Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
                                       39
<PAGE>   123
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      APPENDIX A -- RATINGS OF INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
A-1, A-2 AND PRIME-1, PRIME-2 COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
     Commercial paper rated by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group has the following
characteristics: Liquidity ratios are adequate to meet cash requirements.
Long-term senior debt is rated "A" or better. The issuer has access to at least
two additional channels of borrowing. Basic earnings and cash flow have an
upward trend with allowance made for unusual circumstances. Typically, the
issuer's industry is well established and the issuer has a strong position
within the industry. The reliability and quality of management are unquestioned.
Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determine whether the
issuer's commercial paper is rated A-1 or A-2.
 
     The ratings Prime-1 and Prime-2 are the two highest commercial paper
ratings assigned by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. Among the factors considered
by it in assigning ratings are the following: (1) evaluation of the management
of the issuer; (2) economic evaluation of the issuer's industry or industries
and an appraisal of speculative-type risks which may be inherent in certain
areas; (3) evaluation of the issuer's products in relation to competition and
customer-acceptance; (4) liquidity; (5) amount and quality of long-term debt;
(6) trend of earnings over a period of ten years; (7) financial strength of a
parent company and the relationships which exist with the issuer; and (8)
recognition by the management of obligations which may be present or may arise
as a result of public interest questions and preparations to meet such
obligations. Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determines
whether the issuer's commercial paper is rated Prime-1 or 2.
 
CORPORATE BONDS
 
  STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the higher rated issued only in small degree.
 
     A. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
 
     BBB. Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
 
     BB, B, CCC, CC, C. Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC, and C is regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest
and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. BB indicates
the lowest degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
 
     CI. The rating CI is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is
being paid.
 
     D. Debt rated D is in default, and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
 
  MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
                                       A-1
<PAGE>   124
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time.
 
     Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact, have
speculative characteristics as well.
 
     BA. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
 
     B. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
 
     CAA. Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal and
interest.
 
     CA. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in
a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
 
     C. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues
so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
 
MUNICIPAL BONDS
 
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Bonds rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differ from the higher rated issues only in small degree.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated
categories.
 
     BBB. Bonds which are rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity
to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate
protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are
more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal
for bonds in this category than for bonds in higher rated categories.
 
     Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "B" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
 
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in
fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
 
     NOTE: Moody's applies numerical modifiers, 1, 2 AND 3 in each generic
rating classification from "AA" through "B" in its corporate bond rating system.
The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its
generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the
modifier indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating
category.
 
                                       A-2
<PAGE>   125
 
PROSPECTUS
May 1, 1997
 
JNL(R) SERIES TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5901 Executive Drive - Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
     JNL Series Trust ("Trust") is an open-end management investment company
organized under the laws of Massachusetts, by a Declaration of Trust, dated June
1, 1994. The Trust currently offers shares in separate Series, each with its own
investment objective. The shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company
separate accounts to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies.
 
     JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in
common stocks of issuers of any size, including larger, well-established
companies and smaller, emerging growth companies.
 
     JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES is a non-diversified Series that seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital by emphasizing investments in
common stocks of medium-sized companies. Although the Series expects to
emphasize such securities, it may also invest in smaller or larger companies.
 
     JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term
growth of capital by investing primarily in common stocks of foreign and
domestic issuers of any size. This Series normally invests in issuers from at
least five different countries including the United States.
 
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective long-term capital
appreciation by investing in a diversified, actively managed portfolio of equity
securities, primarily of companies with total market capitalization of $1
billion or greater.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income; its secondary investment objective is capital
appreciation by investing in fixed income securities, with emphasis on higher-
yielding, higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds.
 
     PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES seeks as its investment objective as
high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation of capital
and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high-quality, short-term money
market instruments.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES seeks as its investment objective a
high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the Series will seek
capital appreciation. The Series seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in
a globally diverse portfolio of fixed income investments and by giving the
sub-adviser broad discretion to deploy the Series' assets among certain segments
of the fixed income market that the sub-adviser believes will best contribute to
achievement of the Series' investment objectives. In pursuing its investment
objectives, the Series reserves the right to invest predominantly in securities
rated in medium or lower rating categories or as determined by the sub-adviser
to be of comparable quality. Although the Series has the ability to invest up to
100% of the Series' assets in lower-rated securities, the Series' sub-adviser
does not anticipate investing in excess of 75% of the Series' assets in such
securities.
 
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES seeks as its
investment objective a high level of current income, by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment-grade bonds.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment
objective long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies.
 
                                        1
<PAGE>   126
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES seeks as its
investment objective long-term growth of capital through investments primarily
in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies.
 
     T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES seeks as its investment objective
long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common stock of
companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the potential
for above average growth.
 
     As a result of the market risk inherent in any investment, there is no
assurance that the investment objective of any of the Series will be realized.
Investments in a Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by the U.S.
Government or any other entity or person, and there can be no assurance that the
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series will be able to maintain a stable net asset
value of $1.00 per share.
 
     THE PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES INVESTS PREDOMINANTLY IN, AND
THE JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES, JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES
SERIES AND SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES MAY INVEST IN HIGH YIELD,
HIGH RISK BONDS. BONDS OF THIS TYPE ARE TYPICALLY SUBJECT TO GREATER MARKET
FLUCTUATIONS AND RISK OF LOSS OF INCOME AND PRINCIPAL DUE TO DEFAULT BY THE
ISSUER THAN ARE INVESTMENTS IN LOWER YIELDING, HIGHER RATED BONDS. (SEE
"INVESTMENT RISKS".)
 
     This Prospectus provides you with the basic information you should know
before investing in the Series. You should read it and keep it for future
reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated May 1, 1997, has been
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You can obtain a copy without
charge by calling (800) 322-8257, or writing the JNL Series Trust Service
Center, P.O. Box 25127, Lansing, MI 48909. The Securities and Exchange
Commission maintains a Web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains the Statement
of Additional Information, material incorporated by reference, and other
information regarding registrants that file electronically with the Commission.
                            ------------------------
 
     THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
                            ------------------------
 
  THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, DATED MAY 1, 1997, IS INCORPORATED
                              HEREIN BY REFERENCE.
 
                                        2
<PAGE>   127
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOPIC                                                           PAGE
- -----                                                           ----
<S>                                                             <C>
 
TRUST EXPENSES..............................................       4
 
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS........................................       6
 
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES..........................      10
 
COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.........      21
 
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST.....................................      28
 
INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES..................................      33
 
SHARE REDEMPTION............................................      33
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION......................................      33
 
PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES......................      34
 
TAX STATUS..................................................      35
</TABLE>
 
                                        3
<PAGE>   128
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                 TRUST EXPENSES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON PURCHASES                         NONE
MAXIMUM SALES LOAD IMPOSED ON REINVESTED DIVIDENDS              NONE
DEFERRED SALES LOAD                                             NONE
REDEMPTION FEES                                                 NONE
EXCHANGE FEE                                                    NONE
</TABLE>
 
ANNUAL SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
(As a percentage of average net assets.)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               OTHER
                                                              MANAGEMENT   EXPENSES(AFTER      TOTAL SERIES
                                                                 FEE       REIMBURSEMENT)   OPERATING EXPENSES
                                                              ----------   --------------   ------------------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>              <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%           .15%               1.15%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%           .15%              1.125%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%           .15%                .90%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%           .15%                .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%           .15%                .85%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%           .15%               1.00%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%           .15%               1.25%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%           .15%               1.10%
</TABLE>
 
     Currently, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. will reimburse each of
the Series for annual expenses (excluding Management Fees) in excess of .15% of
average daily net assets. Voluntary reimbursements to these Series may be
modified or discontinued at any time. Prior to reimbursement, Total Series
Operating Expenses as a percentage of net assets for the period ended December
31, 1996, were: JNL Aggressive Growth Series -- 1.40%; JNL Capital Growth Series
- -- 1.27%; JNL Global Equities Series -- 1.63%; JNL/Alger Growth Series -- 1.19%;
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series -- 1.21%; PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series -- .85%; Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series -- 1.44%; Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series -- 1.37%; T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth Series -- 1.11%; T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity
Investment Series -- 1.29%; and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series --
1.14%.
 
                                        4
<PAGE>   129
 
EXAMPLE -
 
     The following example illustrates the expenses you would incur on a $1,000
investment, assuming (1) 5% annual return and (2) redemption at the end of each
time period:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1 YEAR    3 YEARS    5 YEARS    10 YEARS
                                                                ------    -------    -------    --------
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     $11        $35        $61        $134
JNL Global Equities Series..................................     $12        $37        $63        $140
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................     $11        $36        $62        $137
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     $ 9        $29        $50        $111
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     $ 8        $24        $42        $93
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     $10        $32        $55        $122
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     $ 9        $27        $47        $105
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     $10        $32        $55        $122
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     $13        $40        $69        $151
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     $11        $35        $61        $134
</TABLE>
 
     The purpose of this table is to assist you in understanding the various
costs and expenses that you will bear directly or indirectly. The example
assumes a 5% annual rate of return pursuant to the requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. This hypothetical rate of return is not
intended to be representative of past or future performance of the Series.
 
                                        5
<PAGE>   130
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     The following table provides selected per share data for one share of each
Series. The information does not reflect any charges imposed by a separate
account investing in shares of the Series. You should refer to the appropriate
separate account prospectus for additional information regarding such charges.
 
     The information has been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent
accountants, and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and
notes thereto, together with the report of Price Waterhouse LLP included in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     JNL AGGRESSIVE                  JNL CAPITAL
                                                                     GROWTH SERIES                  GROWTH SERIES
                                                              ----------------------------   ----------------------------
                                                              PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
                                                                APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
                                                                1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
                                                              DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                                                  1996           1996            1996           1996
                                                              ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD........................     $13.13         $10.00          $13.86         $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss)................................       0.05           0.01            0.06             --
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments and foreign
  currency related items....................................       1.10           3.53            0.70           4.70
                                                                -------         ------         -------         ------
Total income from investment operations.....................       1.15           3.54            0.76           4.70
                                                                -------         ------         -------         ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income..................................      (0.05)            --              --             --
From net realized gains on investment transactions..........      (0.71)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)
Return of capital...........................................      (0.14)            --              --             --
                                                                -------         ------         -------         ------
Total distributions.........................................      (0.90)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)
                                                                -------         ------         -------         ------
Net increase................................................       0.25           3.13            0.60           3.86
                                                                -------         ------         -------         ------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD..............................     $13.38         $13.13          $14.46         $13.86
                                                                =======         ======         =======         ======
TOTAL RETURN(A).............................................       8.72%         35.78%           5.45%         47.94%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in thousands)....................    $29,555         $8,527         $36,946         $9,578
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets(b)(c)...........       1.09%          1.09%           1.09%          1.09%
Ratio of net investment income to average net
  assets(b)(c)..............................................       0.77%          0.27%           0.91%         (0.49)%
Portfolio turnover rate.....................................      85.22%        163.84%         115.88%        128.56%
Average commission rate paid(d).............................    $0.0242            n/a         $0.0196            n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES
  PAID INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net assets(b)..................       1.40%          2.77%           1.27%          2.08%
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(b).....       0.46%         (1.41)%          0.73%         (1.48)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 *  Commencement of operations.
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all distributions, and a complete redemption of the
    investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total return is
    not annualized.
(b) Annualized.
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        6
<PAGE>   131
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
            JNL GLOBAL                                         PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD
          EQUITIES SERIES          JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES            BOND SERIES
    ---------------------------   --------------------------   --------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,     OCTOBER 16,     APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO
    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,
        1996           1996           1996          1996           1996          1996
    ------------   ------------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------
<S> <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
       $13.75         $10.00         $10.38        $10.00         $10.23        $10.00
         0.03           0.10             --            --           0.51          0.73
         2.72           4.02           0.78          0.38           0.64          0.04
      -------        -------        -------        ------        -------        ------
         2.75           4.12           0.78          0.38           1.15          0.77
      -------        -------        -------        ------        -------        ------
        (0.08)            --             --            --          (0.69)        (0.54)
        (0.90)         (0.37)            --            --          (0.02)           --
        (0.32)            --             --            --             --            --
      -------        -------        -------        ------        -------        ------
        (1.30)         (0.37)            --            --          (0.71)        (0.54)
      -------        -------        -------        ------        -------        ------
         1.45           3.75           0.78          0.38           0.44          0.23
      -------        -------        -------        ------        -------        ------
       $15.20         $13.75         $11.16        $10.38         $10.67        $10.23
      =======        =======        =======        ======        =======        ======
        19.99%         41.51%          7.51%         3.80%         11.24%         7.82%
      $48,638        $16,141        $38,252        $8,649        $13,396        $6,156
         1.14%          1.15%          1.07%         1.03%          0.88%         0.88%
         0.37%          0.39%         (0.02)%       (0.17)%         8.64%         8.34%
        52.02%        142.36%         59.92%        50.85%        113.08%       186.21%
      $0.0162            n/a        $0.0441           n/a            n/a           n/a
         1.63%          2.25%          1.19%         1.89%          1.21%         1.50%
        (0.12)%        (0.71)%        (0.14)%       (1.03)%         8.31%         7.72%
</TABLE>
 
                                        7
<PAGE>   132
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    PPM AMERICA/JNL            SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                                                                  MONEY MARKET SERIES           GLOBAL BOND SERIES
                                                              ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                                              PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                                                                APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
                                                                1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
                                                              DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                                                  1996           1996           1996           1996
                                                              ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD........................      $1.00          $1.00         $10.46         $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss)................................       0.04           0.04           0.42           0.81
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments and foreign
  currency related items....................................         --             --           0.70           0.24
                                                                -------         ------        -------         ------
Total income from investment operations.....................       0.04           0.04           1.12           1.05
                                                                -------         ------        -------         ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income..................................      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.69)         (0.56)
From net realized gains on investment transactions..........         --             --          (0.26)         (0.03)
Return of capital...........................................         --             --             --             --
                                                                -------         ------        -------         ------
Total distributions.........................................      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.95)         (0.59)
                                                                -------         ------        -------         ------
Net increase................................................         --             --           0.17           0.46
                                                                -------         ------        -------         ------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD..............................      $1.00          $1.00         $10.63         $10.46
                                                                =======         ======        =======         ======
TOTAL RETURN(A).............................................       3.61%          4.59%         10.68%         10.74%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in thousands)....................    $23,752         $6,816        $12,483         $6,380
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets(b)(c)...........       0.75%          0.75%          0.99%          1.00%
Ratio of net investment income to average net
  assets(b)(c)..............................................       4.75%          5.06%          7.52%          9.01%
Portfolio turnover rate.....................................         --              --        109.85%        152.89%
Average commission rate paid(d).............................        n/a            n/a            n/a            n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES
  PAID INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net assets(b)..................       0.85%          1.30%          1.44%          2.14%
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(b).....       4.65%          4.51%          7.07%          7.87%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 * Commencement of operations.
 
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, and a complete redemption
    of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total
    return is not annualized.
 
(b) Annualized.
 
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
 
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                        8
<PAGE>   133
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S.                                        T. ROWE PRICE/
       GOVERNMENT & QUALITY            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL             JNL INTERNATIONAL             T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
            BOND SERIES            ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES     EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES        MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
    ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
        1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
    ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S> <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
       $10.09         $10.00         $11.36         $10.00         $11.25         $10.00         $13.43         $10.00
         0.24           0.45           0.03           0.07           0.06           0.04          (0.05)          0.06
         0.24           0.02           1.81           2.68           0.90           1.21           1.92           3.90
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.48           0.47           1.84           2.75           0.96           1.25           1.87           3.96
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.34)         (0.34)         (0.04)         (0.06)         (0.12)            --          (0.05)            --
        (0.03)         (0.04)         (0.09)         (1.33)         (0.01)            --          (0.36)         (0.53)
           --             --          (0.51)            --             --             --             --             --
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
        (0.37)         (0.38)         (0.64)         (1.39)         (0.13)            --          (0.41)         (0.53)
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
         0.11           0.09           1.20           1.36           0.83           1.25           1.46           3.43
      -------         ------        -------         ------        -------        -------        -------        -------
       $10.20         $10.09         $12.56         $11.36         $12.08         $11.25         $14.89         $13.43
      =======         ======        =======         ======        =======        =======        =======        =======
         4.82%          4.65%         16.12%         28.23%          8.54%         12.50%         13.91%         40.06%
       $9,832         $3,007        $32,291         $8,772        $48,204        $24,211        $47,104        $10,545
         0.84%          0.84%          1.00%          1.00%          1.25%          1.25%          1.10%          1.10%
         5.72%          5.41%          0.59%          0.75%          1.09%          0.78%         (0.18)%         0.82%
       218.50%        253.37%         36.41%        101.13%          5.93%         16.45%         25.05%         66.04%
          n/a            n/a        $0.0288            n/a        $0.0257            n/a        $0.0326            n/a
         1.37%          2.53%          1.11%          2.09%          1.29%          2.14%          1.14%          2.10%
         5.19%          3.72%          0.48%         (0.34)%         1.05%         (0.11)%        (0.22)%        (0.18)%
</TABLE>
 
     Each Series' recent performance and holdings will be detailed twice a year
in the Trust's annual and semi-annual reports, which are sent to all
shareholders.
 
                                        9
<PAGE>   134
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Investments in each Series are made in many different securities which
provide diversification to minimize risk. While there is careful selection of
portfolio securities and constant supervision by a team of professional
investment managers, there can be no guarantee that the Series' objectives will
be achieved. Because of differences in investment objectives and policies, as
well as acceptable degrees of risk, the performance of a Series may differ even
though more than one Series may utilize the same securities selection.
 
     Unless otherwise stated, the investment objectives and policies set forth
in this Prospectus are not fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees
without shareholder approval. Each Series is subject to additional investment
policies and restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information,
some of which are fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder
approval.
 
     Currently, shares of the Trust are sold to life insurance company separate
accounts ("Accounts") to fund the benefits of variable annuity policies
("Policies") issued by life insurance companies. The Accounts purchase shares of
the Trust in accordance with variable account allocation instructions received
from owners of the Policies. The Trust then uses the proceeds to buy securities
for its Series. The investment adviser manages the Series from day to day to
accomplish the Trust's investment objectives. The kinds of investments and the
way they are managed depends on what is happening in the economy and the
financial marketplaces. Each of the Accounts, as a shareholder, has an ownership
in the Trust's investments. The Trust also offers to buy back (redeem) shares of
the Trust from the Accounts at any time at net asset value.
 
     Jackson National Financial Services, Inc. ("JNFSI"), a wholly owned
subsidiary of Jackson National Life Insurance Company, serves as investment
adviser for all the Series of the Trust. Janus Capital Corporation serves as
sub-adviser for the JNL Capital Growth, JNL Aggressive Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series; Fred Alger Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the
JNL/Alger Growth Series; PPM America, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the PPM
America/JNL High Yield Bond and PPM America/JNL Money Market Series; Salomon
Brothers Asset Management Inc serves as sub-adviser for the Salomon Brothers/JNL
U.S. Government & Quality Bond and Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series; T.
Rowe Price Associates, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series; and Rowe
Price-Fleming International, Inc. serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe
Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series.
 
     Reference is made herein to ratings assigned to certain types of securities
by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("S&P"), Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
("Moody's"), Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch"), Duff & Phelps, Inc. ("Duff
& Phelps") and Thomson BankWatch, Inc., recognized independent securities
ratings institutions. A description of the ratings categories assigned by S&P
and Moody's is contained in Appendix A.
 
DIVERSIFICATION
 
     Each of the Series except the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth
Series qualifies as a diversified investment company under the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"). As a fundamental policy, a diversified
fund will not purchase a security of any issuer (except cash items and U.S.
Government securities) if a) it would cause the Series to own more than 10% of
the outstanding voting securities of that issuer or b) it would cause the
Series' holdings of that issuer to amount to more than 5% of the Series' total
assets (as applied in each case to 75% of the Series' total assets). As a
fundamental policy, the JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series also
will not purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any
issuer; however, only 50% of total assets are subject to the 5% test. The JNL
Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series may invest up to 50% of total
assets in the securities of as few as two issuers (not to exceed 25% in any one
issuer) while the other Series may invest up to 25% of their total assets in the
securities of one issuer. Neither the JNL Capital Growth nor the JNL Aggressive
Growth Series anticipates concentrating its holdings in so few issuers unless
its sub-adviser believes a security has the potential for substantial capital
appreciation consistent with a Series' investment policies and goals. To the
extent that any Series invests more than 5% of its assets in a particular
issuer, its exposure to credit risks and/or market risks associated with that
issuer increases. As an additional fundamental policy, no Series will invest
more than 25% of its total assets in any particular industry (other than U.S.
Government securities), except that the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series may
invest a greater percent of its assets in the domestic banking industry.
 
                                       10
<PAGE>   135
 
  INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS) LIMITATIONS
 
     In addition to the diversification requirements stated above, each Series
intends to comply with the diversification requirements currently imposed by the
IRS on separate accounts of insurance companies as a condition of maintaining
the tax-deferred status of variable contracts. More specific information may be
contained in the participating insurance company's separate account prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Aggressive Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital. It is a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing primarily in common stocks of issuers of any size,
including larger, well-established companies and smaller, emerging growth
companies. The smaller or newer a company is, the more likely it may be to
suffer more significant losses as well as realize more substantial growth than
larger or more established issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Capital Growth Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a non-diversified Series that pursues its investment objective by normally
investing at least 50% of its equity assets in securities issued by medium-sized
companies. Medium-sized companies are those whose market capitalizations fall
within the range of companies in the S&P MidCap 400 Index (the "MidCap Index").
Companies whose capitalization falls outside this range after the Series'
initial purchase continue to be considered medium-sized companies for the
purpose of this policy. As of December 30, 1996, the MidCap Index included
companies with capitalizations between approximately $192 million and $6.5
billion. The range of the MidCap Index is expected to change on a regular basis.
Subject to the above policy, the Series may also invest in smaller or larger
issuers.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL Global Equities Series is long-term
growth of capital in a manner consistent with the preservation of capital. It is
a diversified Series that pursues its investment objective primarily through
investments in common stocks of foreign and domestic issuers. The Series is
permitted to invest on a worldwide basis in companies and other organizations of
any size, regardless of country of organization or place of principal business
activity, as well as domestic and foreign governments, government agencies and
other governmental entities. The Series normally invests in securities of
issuers from at least five different countries, including the United States,
although the Series may at times invest all of its assets in fewer than five
countries. The JNL Global Equities Series may not be suitable for investors that
are not able to bear the additional risks associated with the Series' more
extensive holdings of foreign securities.
 
                                       11
<PAGE>   136
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES, JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES,
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth, and JNL Global
Equities Series invests substantially all of its assets in common stocks when
its sub-adviser believes that the relevant market environment favors profitable
investing in those securities. Common stock investments are selected in
industries and companies that the sub-adviser believes are experiencing
favorable demand for their products and services, and which operate in a
favorable competitive environment and regulatory climate. The sub-adviser's
analysis and selection process focuses on stocks with earnings growth potential
that may not be recognized by the market. Such securities are selected primarily
for their capital growth potential; investment income is not a consideration.
These selection criteria apply equally to stocks of foreign issuers. In
addition, factors such as expected levels of inflation, government policies
influencing business conditions, the outlook for currency relationships, and
prospects for relative economic growth among countries, regions or geographic
areas may warrant greater consideration in selecting foreign stocks.
 
     Each of the JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global
Equities Series invests primarily in common stocks of foreign and domestic
companies. Each Series may invest to a lesser degree in other types of
securities, including preferred stock, warrants, convertible securities and debt
securities. Debt securities that the Series may purchase include corporate bonds
and debentures (not to exceed 35% of net assets in high-yield/high-risk bonds)
(See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High Risk Bonds"); government securities;
mortgage- and asset-backed securities (not to exceed 25% of assets); zero coupon
bonds (not to exceed 10% of assets); indexed/structured notes; high-grade
commercial paper; certificates of deposit; and repurchase agreements. Such
securities may offer growth potential because of anticipated changes in interest
rates, credit standing, currency relationships or other factors. Each of these
Series may also invest in short-term debt securities as a means of receiving a
return on idle cash.
 
     When the Series' sub-adviser believes that market conditions are not
favorable for profitable investing or when the sub-adviser is otherwise unable
to locate favorable investment opportunities, the Series' investments may be
hedged to a greater degree and/or its cash or similar investments may increase.
In other words, the Series do not always stay fully invested in stocks and
bonds. Cash or similar investments are residual -- they represent the assets
that remain after the sub-adviser has committed available assets to desirable
investment opportunities. When a Series' cash position increases, it may not
participate in stock market advances or declines to the extent that it would if
it remained more fully invested in common stocks.
 
     Although JNL Global Equities Series is committed to foreign investing, each
of these Series may invest without limit in equity and debt securities of
foreign issuers. The Series may invest directly in foreign securities
denominated in a foreign currency and not publicly traded in the United States.
Other ways of investing in foreign securities include depositary receipts or
shares, and passive foreign investment companies. Each of these Series may use
futures, options and other derivatives for hedging purposes or as a means of
enhancing return. Some securities that these Series may purchase may be issued
on a when-issued, delayed delivery or forward commitment basis.
 
     Each of JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Global Equities
Series may invest in "special situations" from time to time. A special situation
arises when, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, the securities of a particular
issuer will be recognized and appreciate in value due to a specific development
with respect to that issuer. Developments creating special situations might
include, among others, a new product or process, a technological breakthrough, a
management change or other extraordinary corporate event, or differences in
market supply of and demand for the security. Investment in special situations
may carry an additional risk of loss in the event that the anticipated
development does not occur or does not attract the expected attention. The
impact of this strategy on a Series will depend on the Series' size and the
extent of its holdings of special situation issuers relative to total net
assets.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>   137
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the JNL/Alger Growth Series is long-term
capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series that seeks to achieve its
objective by investing in equity securities, such as common or preferred stocks
that are listed on a national securities exchange, or securities convertible
into or exchangeable for equity securities, including warrants and rights.
Except during temporary defensive periods, the Series invests at least 85
percent of its net assets in equity securities and at least 65 percent of its
total assets in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase of
the securities, have total market capitalization of $1 billion or greater.
 
     It is anticipated that the Series will invest primarily in companies whose
securities are traded on domestic stock exchanges or in the over-the-counter
market. These companies may still be in the developmental stage, may be older
companies that appear to be entering a new stage of growth progress owing to
factors such as management changes or development of new technology, products or
markets or may be companies providing products or services with a high unit
volume growth rate. The Series may invest up to 35 percent of its total assets
in equity securities of companies that, at the time of purchase, have total
market capitalization of less than $1 billion. In order to afford the Series the
flexibility to take advantage of new opportunities for investments in accordance
with its investment objective, the Series may hold up to 15 percent of its net
assets in money market instruments and repurchase agreements. During temporary
defensive periods, the Series may invest up to 100% of its assets in debt
securities, money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. The Portfolio
may also purchase restricted securities (subject to a limit on all illiquid
securities of 10 percent of net assets), lend its securities and enter into
"short sales against the box." (See "Common Types of Securities and Management
Practices").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond
Series is a high level of current income; its secondary investment objective is
capital appreciation by investing in fixed income securities, with emphasis on
higher-yielding, higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds. It is a
diversified Series.
 
     Under normal market conditions, the Series will be invested substantially
in long-term (over 10 years to maturity) and intermediate-term (3 to 10 years to
maturity) fixed income securities, with emphasis on higher-yielding,
higher-risk, lower-rated or unrated corporate bonds. These high risk, high yield
bonds typically are subject to greater market fluctuations and risk of loss of
income and principal due to default by the issuer than are investments in
lower-yielding, higher-rated bonds. (See "Investment Risks -- High Yield/High
Risk Bonds").
 
     High risk, high yield bonds generally include any bonds that are rated Ba
or below by Moody's or BB or below by S&P or that are unrated but considered by
the sub-adviser to be of equivalent credit quality. Bonds rated Ba or BB or
below are considered speculative. The Series may invest without limitation in
bonds rated as low as Ca by Moody's or C by S&P (or unrated but considered by
the sub-adviser to be of equivalent quality). In addition, the Series may invest
up to 10% of its total assets in bonds rated C by Moody's or D by S&P (or
unrated but considered by the sub-adviser to be of equivalent quality).
High-yield bonds are riskier than lower-yielding, higher-rated bonds.
 
     In pursuing its secondary investment objective of capital appreciation, the
Series may purchase high yield bonds that are expected by the sub-adviser to
increase in value due to improvements in their credit quality or ratings or
anticipated declines in interest rates. In addition, the Series may invest for
this purpose up to 25% of its assets in equity securities, such as common
stocks, or other securities having common stock characteristics. Securities
designated as having common stock characteristics include, but are not limited
to, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock.
 
     Treating high current income as its primary investment objective means that
the Series may forego opportunities that would result in capital gains and may
accept prudent risks to capital value, in each case to take advantage of
opportunities for higher current income.
 
     Up to 25% of the Series' assets may be invested in securities of foreign
issuers, which are generally denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar. The Series also has the ability to hold a portion of its assets in
foreign currencies and to enter into forward foreign
 
                                       13
<PAGE>   138
 
currency exchange contracts, currency options, currency and financial futures
contracts, and options on such futures contracts. The Series may enter into
repurchase agreements and firm commitment agreements and may purchase securities
on a when-issued basis. Investment in foreign securities also involves special
risks.
 
     Under normal market conditions, the Series will invest at least 65% of its
total assets in high risk, high yield bonds as described above. Subject to this
requirement, the Series may maintain assets in cash or cash equivalents,
including commercial bank obligations (certificates of deposit, which are
interest-bearing time deposits; bankers' acceptances, which are time drafts on a
commercial bank for which the bank accepts an irrevocable obligation to pay at
maturity; and demand or time deposits), commercial paper (short-term notes
issued by corporations or governmental bodies) and obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government. The Series may adopt temporary defensive
position investment policies during adverse market, economic or other
circumstances that require immediate action to avoid losses. During periods when
and to the extent that the Series has assumed a temporary defensive position,
the Series may not be pursuing its investment objective.
 
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                      PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series is to
achieve as high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation
of capital and maintenance of liquidity by investing in high quality, short-term
money market instruments. It is a diversified Series that pursues its investment
objective by investing mainly in debt, but the Series shall retain maximum
flexibility in the management of its portfolio.
 
     The Series invests in high quality money market instruments. These
instruments are considered to be among the safest investments available because
of their short maturities, liquidity and high quality ratings.
 
     This Series will invest exclusively in the following types of high quality,
U.S. dollar denominated money market instruments that mature in 397 days or
less:
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies and instrumentalities.
 
     - Obligations, such as time deposits, certificates of deposit and bankers
       acceptances, issued by U.S. banks and savings banks that are members of
       the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, including their foreign
       branches and foreign subsidiaries, and issued by domestic and foreign
       branches of foreign banks.
 
     - Corporate obligations, including commercial paper, of domestic and
       foreign issuers.
 
     - Obligations issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or
       any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities,
       including obligations of supranational entities.
 
     - Repurchase agreements on obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
       Government, its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
     Investments are managed to meet the quality and diversification
requirements of the 1940 Act. Under Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, the Series
must maintain a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of 90 days or less
and may only purchase U.S. dollar denominated instruments that are determined to
present minimal credit risks and that at the time of acquisition are rated in
the top two rating categories by the required number of nationally recognized
statistical rating organizations (at least two or, if only one rating agency has
rated the security, that one agency) or, if unrated, are deemed comparable in
quality. Determination of credit risks and quality will be made by the
sub-adviser in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trust's Board of
Trustees. The diversification requirements of Rule 2a-7 provide generally that
the Series may not at the time of acquisition invest more than 5% of its assets
in securities of any one issuer or invest more than 5% of its assets in
securities that have not been rated in the highest category by the required
number of rating agencies or, if unrated, have not been deemed comparable,
except U.S. Government securities and repurchase agreements on such securities.
A more complete description of the rating categories is set forth under Appendix
A.
 
     The Series may invest more than 25% of its total assets in the domestic
banking industry, which would cause the Series to be more exposed to the risks
of such industry. Bank obligations held by the Series do not benefit materially
from insurance from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The 25%
limitation does not apply to U.S. Government securities, including obligations
issued or guaranteed by its agencies or instrumentalities.
 
                                       14
<PAGE>   139
 
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                    SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The primary investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond
Series is to seek a high level of current income. As a secondary objective, the
Series will seek capital appreciation. It is a diversified Series. The Series
seeks to achieve its objectives by investing in a globally diverse portfolio of
fixed income investments and by giving the sub-adviser broad discretion to
deploy the assets among certain segments of the fixed income market that the
sub-adviser believes will best contribute to the achievement of the Series'
objectives. At any point in time, the sub-adviser will deploy the Series' assets
based on its analysis of current economic and market conditions and the relative
risks and opportunities present in the following market segments: U.S.
Government obligations, investment grade domestic corporate debt, high yield
domestic corporate debt securities, mortgage-backed securities and investment
grade and high yield foreign corporate and sovereign debt securities. The
sub-adviser has entered into an agreement with its London-based affiliate,
Salomon Brothers Asset Management Limited ("SBAM Limited") pursuant to which
SBAM Limited will provide certain advisory services to the sub-adviser relating
to currency transactions and investments in non-dollar denominated debt
securities for the benefit of the Series.
 
     The sub-adviser will determine the amount of assets to be allocated to each
type of security in which it invests based on its assessment of the maximum
level of income and capital appreciation that can be achieved from a portfolio
which is invested in these securities. In making this determination, the
sub-adviser will rely in part on quantitative analytical techniques that measure
relative risks and opportunities of each type of security based on current and
historical economic, market, political and technical data for each type of
security, as well as on its own assessment of economic and market conditions
both on a global and local (country) basis. In performing quantitative analysis,
the sub-adviser will employ prepayment analysis and option adjusted spread
technology to evaluate mortgage securities, mean variance optimization models to
evaluate foreign debt securities, and total rate of return analysis to measure
relative risks and opportunities in other fixed income markets. Economic factors
considered will include current and projected levels of growth and inflation,
balance of payments, status and monetary policy. The allocation of assets to
foreign debt securities will further be influenced by current and expected
currency relationships and political and sovereign factors. The sub-adviser will
continuously review this allocation of assets and make such adjustments as it
deems appropriate. The Series does not plan to establish a minimum or a maximum
percentage of the assets which it will invest in any particular type of fixed
income security.
 
     In addition, the sub-adviser will have discretion to select the range of
maturities of the various fixed income securities in which the Series invests.
The sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions the Series'
portfolio securities will have a weighted average life of 6 to 10 years.
However, the weighted average life of the portfolio securities may vary
substantially from time to time depending on economic and market conditions. The
Series may adopt temporary defensive position investment policies during adverse
market, economic or other circumstances that require immediate action to avoid
losses. During periods when and to the extent that the Series has assumed a
temporary defensive position, the Series may not be pursuing its investment
objective.
 
     The investment grade corporate debt securities and the investment grade
foreign debt securities to be purchased by the Series are domestic and foreign
debt securities rated within the four highest bond ratings of either Moody's or
S&P, or, if unrated, deemed to be of equivalent quality in the sub-adviser's
judgment. While debt securities carrying the fourth highest quality rating (Baa
by Moody's or BBB by S&P) are considered investment grade and are viewed to have
adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, investments in such
securities involve a higher degree of risk than that associated with investments
in debt securities in the higher rating categories and such debt securities lack
outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative
characteristics as well. For example, changes in economic conditions or other
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal
and interest payments than is the case with higher grade debt securities.
 
     The types and characteristics of the U.S. Government obligations and
mortgage-backed securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth below in
the discussion of investment objectives and policies for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series. In addition, the Series may
purchase privately issued mortgage securities which are not guaranteed by the
U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities and may purchase stripped
mortgage securities, including interest-only and principal-only securities.
Additional information with respect to securities to be purchased by the Series
is set forth below under the sections entitled "Common
 
                                       15
<PAGE>   140
 
Types of Securities and Management Practices" and "Investment Risks."
 
     The Series may invest in debt obligations issued or guaranteed by a foreign
sovereign government or one of its agencies or political subdivisions and debt
obligations issued or guaranteed by supranational organizations. Supranational
entities include international organizations designated or supported by
governmental entities to promote economic reconstruction or development and
international banking institutions and related government agencies. Examples
include the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the "World
Bank"), the European Coal and Steel Community, the Asian Development Bank and
the Inter-American Development Bank. Such supranational issued instruments may
be denominated in multi-national currency units.
 
     In pursuing the Series' investment objectives, the Series reserves the
right to invest predominantly in medium or lower-rated securities. Although the
Series has the ability to invest up to 100% of its assets in lower-rated
securities, the Series' sub-adviser does not anticipate investing in excess of
75% of the Series' assets in such securities. Investments of this type involve
significantly greater risks, including price volatility and risk of default in
the payment of interest and principal, than higher-quality securities. The
sub-adviser anticipates that under current market conditions, a significant
portion of the Series assets will be invested in such high risk, high yield
securities. By investing a portion of the Series' assets in securities rated
below investment grade as well as through investments in mortgage securities and
foreign debt securities, the sub-adviser expects to provide investors with a
higher yield than a high-quality domestic corporate bond fund. Certain of the
debt securities in which the Series may invest may be rated as low as C by
Moody's or D by S&P or may be considered comparable to securities having such
ratings. Medium and lower-rated securities are considered to be predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal.
 
     In light of the risks associated with high yield corporate and sovereign
debt securities, the sub-adviser will take various factors into consideration in
evaluating the creditworthiness of an issuer. For corporate debt securities,
these will typically include the issuer's financial resources, its sensitivity
to economic conditions and trends, the operating history of the issuer, and the
experience and track record of the issuer's management. For sovereign debt
instruments, these will typically include the economic and political conditions
within the issuer's country, the issuer's overall and external debt levels and
debt service ratios, the issuer's access to capital markets and other sources of
funding, and the issuer's debt service payment history. The sub-adviser will
also review the ratings, if any, assigned to the security by any recognized
rating agencies, although the sub-adviser's judgment as to the quality of a debt
security may differ from that suggested by the rating published by a rating
service. The Series' ability to achieve its investment objective may be more
dependent on the sub-adviser's credit analysis than would be the case if it
invested in higher quality debt securities.
 
     The high yield sovereign debt securities in which the Series may invest are
U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities, including Brady Bonds, and non-dollar
denominated debt securities that are issued or guaranteed by governments or
governmental entities of developing and emerging countries. The sub-adviser
expects that these countries will consist primarily of those which have issued
or have announced plans to issue Brady Bonds, but the portfolio is not limited
to investing in the debt of such countries. Brady Bonds are debt securities
issued under the framework of the Brady Plan, an initiative announced by former
U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor
nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness. (See "Investment
Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds"). The sub-adviser anticipates that the
Series' initial investments in sovereign debt will be concentrated in Latin
American countries, including Mexico and Central and South American and
Caribbean countries. The sub-adviser expects to take advantage of additional
opportunities for investment in the debt of North African countries, such as
Nigeria and Morocco, Eastern European countries, such as Poland and Hungary, and
Southeast Asian countries, such as the Philippines. Sovereign governments may
include national, provincial, state, municipal or other foreign governments with
taxing authority. Governmental entities may include the agencies and
instrumentalities of such governments, as well as state-owned enterprises. (For
a more detailed discussion of high yield sovereign debt securities, see
"Investment Risks -- High Yield/ High Risk Bonds").
 
     The Series will be subject to special risks as a result of its ability to
invest up to 100% of its assets in foreign securities (including emerging market
securities). Such securities may be non-U.S. dollar denominated and there is no
limit on the percentage of the Series' assets that can be invested in non-dollar
denominated securities. The sub-adviser anticipates that, under current market
conditions, a significant portion of the Series' assets will be invested in
foreign securities. (See "Investment Risks"). The ability to spread its
investments among the fixed income markets in a number of different countries
may, however, reduce the overall level or market risk to the extent it may
reduce the Series' exposure to a single market.
 
     The Series may invest in zero coupon securities and pay-in-kind bonds. (See
"Common Types of Securities and Management Practices"). In addition, the Series
may invest in fixed and floating rate loans ("Loans") arranged through
 
                                       16
<PAGE>   141
 
private negotiations between a corporate borrower or a foreign sovereign entity
and one or more financial institutions ("Lenders"). The Series may invest in
such Loans in the form of participations in Loans ("Participations") and
assignments of all or a portion of Loans from third parties ("Assignments"). The
Series considers these investments to be investments in debt securities for
purposes of this Prospectus. Participations typically will result in the Series
having a contractual relationship only with the Lender, not with the borrower.
The Series will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and
any fees to which it is entitled only from the Lender selling the Participation
and only upon receipt by the Lender of the payments from the borrower. In
connection with purchasing Participations, the Series generally will have no
right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement
relating to the Loan, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and the
Series may not benefit directly from any collateral supporting the Loan in which
it has purchased the Participation. As a result, the Series will assume the
credit risk of both the borrower and the Lender that is selling the
Participation. In the event of the insolvency of the Lender selling a
Participation, the Series may be treated as a general creditor of the Lender and
may not benefit from any set-off between the Lender and the borrower. The Series
will acquire Participations only if the Lender interpositioned between the
Series and the borrower is determined by the sub-adviser to be creditworthy.
When the Series purchases Assignments from Lenders, the Series will acquire
direct rights against the borrower on the Loan, except that under certain
circumstances such rights may be more limited than those held by the assigning
Lender.
 
     The Series may have difficulty disposing of Assignments and Participations.
Because the market for such instruments is not highly liquid, the Series
anticipates that such instruments could be sold only to a limited number of
institutional investors. The lack of a highly liquid secondary market may have
an adverse impact on the value of such instruments and will have an adverse
impact on the Series' ability to dispose of particular Assignments or
Participations in response to a specific economic event, such as deterioration
in the creditworthiness of the borrower. The Series currently treats investments
in Participations and Assignments as illiquid for purposes of its limitation on
investment in illiquid securities. However, the Trustees may in the future adopt
policies and procedures for the purpose of determining whether Assignments and
Loan Participations are liquid or illiquid. Pursuant to such policies and
procedures, the Trustees would delegate to the sub-adviser the determination as
to whether a particular Loan Participation or Assignment is liquid or illiquid,
requiring that consideration be given to, among other things, the frequency of
quotes, the number of dealers willing to sell and the number of potential
purchasers, the nature of the Loan Participation or Assignment and the time
needed to dispose of it and the contractual provisions of the relevant
documentation. The Trustees would periodically review purchases and sales of
Assignments and Loan Participations. To the extent that liquid Assignments and
Loan Participations that the Series held became illiquid, due to the lack of
sufficient buyers or market or other conditions, the percentage of the Series'
assets invested in illiquid assets would increase.
 
     The Series may invest up to 20% of its assets in common stock, convertible
securities, warrants, preferred stock or other equity securities when consistent
with the Series' objectives. The Series will generally hold such equity
investments as a result of purchases of unit offerings of fixed income
securities which include such securities or in connection with an actual or
proposed conversion or exchange of fixed income securities, but may also
purchase equity securities not associated with fixed income securities when, in
the opinion of the sub-adviser, such purchase is appropriate.
 
     The Series currently intends to invest substantially all of its assets in
fixed income securities. In order to maintain liquidity, however, the Series may
invest up to 20% of its assets in high-quality short-term money market
instruments. If at some future date, in the opinion of the sub-adviser, adverse
conditions prevail in the market for fixed income securities, the Series for
temporary defensive purposes may invest its assets without limit in high-quality
short-term money market instruments. The types and characteristics of the money
market securities to be purchased by the Series are set forth in the discussion
of investment objectives and policies of the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, enter into mortgage "dollar rolls" and lend portfolio securities.
The Series will not make loans of portfolio securities with a value in excess of
25% of the Series' total assets. The Series may also enter into options, futures
and currency transactions, although with the exception of currency transactions,
it is not presently anticipated that any of these strategies will be utilized to
a significant degree by the Series. (See "Common Types of Securities and
Management Practices" and "Investment Risks"). The Series' ability to pursue
certain of these strategies may be limited by applicable regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission ("CFTC") and the federal income tax requirements applicable to
regulated investment companies.
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   142
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government &
Quality Bond Series is to obtain a high level of current income. It is a
diversified Series that seeks to attain its objective by investing primarily in
debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities including collateralized mortgage
obligations backed by such securities. The Series may also invest a portion of
its assets in investment grade bonds.
 
     At least 65% of the total assets of the Series will be invested in:
 
     (1) U.S. Treasury obligations;
 
     (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of
         the U.S. Government which are backed by their own credit and may not be
         backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government;
 
     (3) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National
         Mortgage Association that are supported by the full faith and credit of
         the U.S. Government. Such securities entitle the holder to receive all
         interest and principal payments due whether or not payments are
         actually made on the underlying mortgages;
 
     (4) mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities
         of the U.S. Government which are supported by their own credit but not
         the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, such as the Federal
         Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the Federal National Mortgage
         Association; and
 
     (5) collateralized mortgage obligations issued by private issuers for which
         the underlying mortgage-backed securities serving as collateral are
         backed (i) by the credit alone of the U.S. Government agency or
         instrumentality which issues or guarantees the mortgage-backed
         securities, or (ii) by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
         Government.
 
     Any guarantee of the securities in which the Series invests runs only to
the principal and interest payments on the securities and not to the market
value of such securities or to the principal and interest payments on the
underlying mortgages. In addition, the guarantee only runs to the portfolio
securities held by the Series and not the purchase of shares of the Series.
 
     The Series may invest in securities of any maturity or effective duration
and, accordingly, the composition and weighted average maturity of the Series'
portfolio will vary from time to time, based upon the sub-adviser's
determination of how best to achieve the Series' investment objective. With
respect to mortgage-backed securities in which the Series invests, average
maturity and duration are determined by using mathematical models that
incorporate prepayment assumptions and other factors that involve estimates of
future economic parameters. These estimates may vary from actual results,
particularly during periods of extreme market volatility. In addition, the
average maturity and duration of mortgage-backed derivative securities may not
accurately reflect the price volatility of such securities under certain market
conditions.
 
     A significant portion of the Series' assets may from time to time be
invested in mortgage-backed securities. The mortgage-backed securities in which
the Series invests represent participating interests in pools of fixed rate and
adjustable rate residential mortgage loans issued or guaranteed by agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. Mortgage-backed securities are issued
by lenders such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, and savings and loan
associations. Mortgage-backed securities generally provide monthly payments
which are, in effect, a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal
payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the
pooled mortgage loans. Principal prepayments result from the sale of the
underlying property or the refinancing or foreclosure of underlying mortgages.
 
     The yield of mortgage-backed securities is based upon the prepayment rates
experienced over the life of the security. Prepayments tend to increase during
periods of falling interest rates, while during periods of rising interest rates
prepayments will most likely decline. Reinvestment by the Series of scheduled
principal payments and unscheduled prepayments may occur at higher or lower
rates than the original investment, thus affecting the yield of the Series.
Monthly interest payments received by the Series have a compounding effect which
will increase the yield to shareholders as compared to debt obligations that pay
interest semi-annually. Because of the reinvestment of prepayments of principal
at current rates, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than Treasury
bonds of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining
interest rates. Also, although the value of debt securities may increase as
interest rates decline, the value of these pass-through type of securities may
not increase as much due to the prepayment feature.
 
     While the Series seeks a high level of current income, it cannot invest in
instruments such as lower grade
 
                                       18
<PAGE>   143
 
corporate obligations which offer higher yields but are subject to greater
credit risks. The Series will not knowingly invest in a high risk "mortgage
security," generally defined as any mortgage security that exhibits
significantly greater price volatility than a benchmark security, the Federal
National Mortgage Association current coupon 30-year mortgage-backed pass
through security. Shares of the Series are neither insured nor guaranteed by the
U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities. Neither the issuance by nor
the guarantee of a U.S. Government agency for a security constitutes assurance
that the security will not significantly fluctuate in value or that the Series
will receive the originally anticipated yield on the security.
 
     The Series may also invest up to 35% of its assets in U.S.
dollar-denominated securities rated AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or Aaa, Aa, A or
Baa by Moody's, or if unrated, determined to be of comparable quality to
securities in those ratings categories by the sub-adviser. The Series may not
invest more than 10% of total assets in obligations of foreign issuers.
Investments in foreign securities will subject the Series to special
considerations related to political, economic and legal conditions outside of
the U.S. (See "Investment Risks"). These considerations include the possibility
of expropriation, nationalization, withholding taxes on income and difficulties
in enforcing judgments. Foreign securities may be less liquid and more volatile
than comparable U.S. securities.
 
     The Series may enter into repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements,
purchase securities on a firm commitment basis, including when-issued
securities, and lend portfolio securities. The Series will not make loans of
portfolio securities with a value in excess of 25% of the value of its total
assets. The Series may also enter into mortgage "dollar rolls." (For a
description of these investment practices and the risks associated with them,
see "Common Types of Securities and Management Practices" and "Investment
Risks").
 
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                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series
is to seek long-term growth of capital and increasing dividend income through
investment primarily in common stocks of well-established growth companies. A
growth company is defined as one which: (1) has demonstrated historical growth
of earnings faster than the growth of inflation and the economy in general; and
(2) has indications of being able to continue this growth pattern in the future.
Total return will consist primarily of capital appreciation or depreciation and
secondarily of dividend income.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest primarily in the common stock
of a diversified group of well-established growth companies. While current
dividend income is not a prerequisite in the selection of a growth company, the
companies in which the Series will invest normally have a record of paying
dividends and are generally expected to increase the amounts of such dividends
in future years as earnings increase. Although the Series will invest primarily
in U.S. common stocks, it may also purchase other types of securities, for
example, convertible securities, warrants, hybrid instruments, restricted
securities, futures and options, when considered consistent with the Series'
investment objective and program. The Series may invest up to 30% of its total
assets (excluding reserves) in foreign securities, including American
Depositary Receipts ("ADRs").
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity
Investment Series is to seek long-term growth of capital through investments
primarily in common stocks of established, non-U.S. companies. Total return
consists of capital appreciation or depreciation, dividend income, and currency
gains or losses.
 
     Over the last 30 years, many foreign economies have grown faster than the
United States' economy, and the return from equity investments in these
countries has often exceeded the return on similar investments in the United
States. Moreover, there has normally been a wide and largely unrelated variation
in performance between international equity markets over this period. Although
there can be no assurance that these conditions will continue, the Series'
sub-adviser, within the framework of diversification, seeks to identify and
invest in companies participating in the faster growing foreign economies and
markets. The sub-adviser believes that investment in foreign securities offers
significant potential for long-term capital appreciation and an opportunity to
achieve investment diversification. The Series may also purchase other
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   144
 
types of securities, for example, common and preferred stocks, convertible
securities, fixed income securities, hybrid instruments, restricted securities,
foreign currency transactions, futures and options.
 
     In analyzing companies for investment, the sub-adviser ordinarily looks for
one or more of the following characteristics: an above-average earnings growth
per share; high return on invested capital; healthy balance sheet; sound
financial and accounting policies and overall financial strength; strong
competitive advantages; effective research and product development and
marketing; efficient service; pricing flexibility; strength of management; and
general operating characteristics which will enable the companies to compete
successfully in their market place. While current dividend income is not a
prerequisite in the selection of portfolio companies, the companies in which the
Series invests, normally will have a record of paying dividends, and will
generally be expected to increase the amounts of such dividends in future years
as earnings increase.
 
     It is a diversified Series that intends to diversify investments broadly
among countries and to normally have at least three different countries
represented in the Series. The Series may invest in countries of the Far East
and Europe, as well as South Africa, Australia, Canada and other areas
(including developing countries). Under unusual circumstances, however, the
Series may invest substantially all of its assets in one or two countries.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The investment objective of the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series is
to provide long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in the common
stock of companies with medium-sized market capitalizations ("mid-cap") and the
potential for above-average growth.
 
     It is a diversified Series that will invest at least 65% of its total
assets in a diversified portfolio of mid-cap common stocks with above-average
growth potential. A mid-cap company is defined as one whose market
capitalization falls within the capitalization range of companies included in
the S&P MidCap 400 Index. Mid-cap growth companies are often still in the early,
more dynamic phase of a company's life cycle, but have enough corporate history
that they are no longer considered new or emerging. By focusing their
activities, mid-cap companies may be more responsive and better able to adapt to
the changing needs of their markets. They are usually mature enough to have
established organizational structures and the depth of management needed to
expand their operations. In addition, these companies generally have sufficient
financial resources and access to capital to finance their growth.
 
     While investing in mid-cap growth companies generally entails greater risk
and volatility than investing in large, well-established companies, mid-cap
companies are expected to offer the potential for more rapid growth. They may
also offer greater potential for capital appreciation because of their higher
growth rates. In addition, the stocks of such companies are less actively
followed by securities analysts and may, therefore, be undervalued by investors.
 
     The sub-adviser will rely on its proprietary research to identify mid-cap
companies with attractive growth prospects. The Series will seek to invest
primarily in companies which: 1) offer proven products or services, 2) have a
historical record of earnings growth that is above average, 3) demonstrate the
potential to sustain earnings growth, 4) operate in industries experiencing
increasing demand, and/or 5) are believed to be reasonably valued in the
marketplace. There is, of course, no guarantee the Series will be able to
identify such companies or that its investment in them will be successful.
 
     Although the Series will invest primarily in U.S. common stocks, it may
also purchase other types of securities, for example, convertible securities,
restricted securities, hybrid instruments, warrants, futures and options, when
considered consistent with the Series' investment objective and program. The
Series may invest up to 25% of its assets (excluding reserves) in foreign
securities, including ADRs.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   145
 
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              COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
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SECURITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
 
     This section describes some of the types of securities a Series may hold in
its portfolio and the various kinds of investment practices that may be used in
day-to-day portfolio management. A Series may invest in the following securities
or engage in the following practices to the extent that such securities and
practices are consistent with the Series' investment objective(s) and policies
described herein. Each Series' investment program is subject to further
restrictions described in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
     BORROWING AND LENDING. A Series may borrow money from banks for temporary
or emergency purposes in amounts up to 25% of its total assets. To secure
borrowings a Series may mortgage or pledge securities in amounts up to 15% of
its net assets. As a fundamental policy, a Series will not lend securities or
other assets if, as a result, more than 25% of its total assets would be lent to
other parties.
 
     CASH POSITION. A Series may hold a certain portion of its assets in
repurchase agreements and money market securities rated in one of the two
highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating
organization, maturing in one year or less. For temporary, defensive purposes, a
Series may invest without limitation in such securities. This reserve position
provides flexibility in meeting redemptions, expenses, and the timing of new
investments, and serves as a short-term defense during periods of unusual market
volatility.
 
     COMMON AND PREFERRED STOCKS. Stocks represent shares of ownership in a
company. Generally, preferred stock has a specified dividend and ranks after
bonds and before common stocks in its claim on income for dividend payments and
on assets should the company be liquidated. After other claims are satisfied,
common stockholders participate in company profits on a pro rata basis; profits
may be paid out in dividends or reinvested in the company to help it grow.
Increases and decreases in earnings are usually reflected in a company's stock
price, so common stocks generally have the greatest appreciation and
depreciation potential of all corporate securities. While most preferred stocks
pay a dividend, a Series may purchase preferred stock where the issuer has
omitted, or is in danger of omitting, payment of its dividend. Such investments
would be made primarily for their capital appreciation potential. Although
common and preferred stocks have a history of long-term growth in value, their
prices tend to fluctuate in the short term, particularly those of smaller
companies.
 
     CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES AND WARRANTS. A Series may invest in debt or
preferred equity securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity
securities. Traditionally, convertible securities have paid dividends or
interest at rates higher than common stocks but lower than non-convertible
securities. They generally participate in the appreciation or depreciation of
the underlying stock into which they are convertible, but to a lesser degree. In
recent years, convertibles have been developed which combine higher or lower
current income with options and other features. Warrants are options to buy a
stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price any time during the
life of the warrants (generally, two or more years).
 
     FIXED INCOME SECURITIES. A Series may invest in fixed income securities of
companies which meet the investment criteria for the Series. The price of fixed
income securities fluctuates with changes in interest rates, generally rising
when interest rates fall and falling when interest rates rise. Prices of
longer-term securities generally increase or decrease more sharply than those of
shorter-term securities in response to interest rate changes.
 
     FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A Series will normally conduct its foreign
currency exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash), basis at the spot
rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering
into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies. A Series will
generally not enter into a forward contract with a term of greater than one
year.
 
     There are certain markets where it is not possible to engage in effective
foreign currency hedging. This may be true, for example, for the currencies of
various countries where the foreign exchange markets are not sufficiently
developed to permit hedging activity to take place.
 
     FOREIGN SECURITIES. A Series may invest in foreign securities. These
include non-dollar denominated securities traded principally outside the U.S.
and dollar denominated securities traded in the U.S. (such as ADRs). Such
investments increase a Series' diversification and may enhance return, but they
also involve some special risks such as exposure to potentially adverse local
political and economic developments; nationalization and exchange controls;
potentially lower liquidity and higher volatility; possible problems arising
from accounting, disclosure, settlement, and regulatory practices that differ
from U.S. standards; and the chance that fluctuations in foreign exchange rates
will decrease the investment's value (favorable changes can increase its value).
 
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<PAGE>   146
 
     FUTURES AND OPTIONS. Futures are often used to manage risk, because they
enable the investor to buy or sell an asset in the future at an agreed upon
price. Options give the investor the right, but not the obligation, to buy or
sell an asset at a predetermined price in the future. A Series may buy and sell
futures contracts (and options on such contracts) to manage its exposure to
changes in securities prices and foreign currencies and as an efficient means of
adjusting overall exposure to certain markets. Subject to certain limits
described in the Statement of Additional Information, a Series may purchase or
sell call and put options on securities, financial indices, and foreign
currencies, and may invest in futures contracts on foreign currencies and
financial indices, including interest rates or an index of U.S. Government
securities, foreign government securities or equity or fixed income securities.
 
     Futures contracts and options may not always be successful hedges; their
prices can be highly volatile; using them could lower a Series' total return;
and the potential loss from the use of futures can exceed the Series' initial
investment in such contracts. These instruments may also be used for non-hedging
purposes such as increasing a Series' income.
 
     The Series' use of commodity futures and commodity options trading should
not be viewed as providing a vehicle for shareholder participation in a
commodity pool. Rather, in accordance with regulations adopted by the CFTC, a
Series will employ such techniques only for (1) hedging purposes, or (2)
otherwise, to the extent that aggregate initial margin and required premiums do
not exceed 5 percent of the Series' net assets.
 
     ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Series may invest up to 15% of its net assets
(10% in the case of the JNL/Alger Growth Series and the PPM America/JNL Money
Market Series) in securities that are considered illiquid. Illiquid investments
include repurchase agreements not terminable within seven days, securities for
which market quotations are not readily available and certain restricted
securities. Illiquid investments may be difficult to sell promptly at an
acceptable price. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may
be costly to a Series. Certain restricted securities may be determined to be
liquid in accordance with guidelines adopted by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
 
     HIGH YIELD BONDS. A Series may invest its assets in fixed income securities
offering high current income that are in the lower rating categories of
recognized rating agencies or are non-rated. These lower-rated fixed income
securities are considered on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect
to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of
the obligation and generally will involve more credit risk than securities in
the higher rating categories.
 
     DEBT HOLDINGS BY RATINGS. During the period ended December 31, 1996, the
percentage of the assets of the following Series invested in debt securities in
each of the rating categories of S&P and the debt securities not rated by an
established rating service, determined on a dollar weighted average, were:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            PERCENTAGE OF NET ASSETS
                       ----------------------------------
                        PPM AMERICA/    SALOMON BROTHERS/
                       JNL HIGH YIELD      JNL GLOBAL
     S&P RATING         BOND SERIES        BOND SERIES
     ----------        --------------   -----------------
<S>                    <C>              <C>
AAA..................          0%             28.05%
AA...................          0%              1.78%
A....................          0%              0.45%
BBB..................       2.05%              4.09%
BB...................      28.43%              6.83%
B....................      66.23%             29.51%
CCC..................       0.81%              2.84%
CC...................          0%                 0%
C....................          0%                 0%
D....................          0%                 0%
Not Rated............       2.48%             26.45%
</TABLE>
 
     HYBRID INSTRUMENTS. These instruments can combine the characteristics of
securities, futures and options. For example, the principal amount, redemption
or conversion terms of a security could be related to the market price of some
commodity, currency or securities index. Such securities may bear interest or
pay dividends at below market (or even relatively nominal) rates. Under certain
conditions, the redemption value of such an investment could be zero. Hybrids
can have volatile prices and limited liquidity and their use by a Series may not
be successful.
 
     MORTGAGE- AND ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES. A Series may invest in mortgage- and
asset-backed securities. These securities are subject to prepayment risk, that
is, the possibility that prepayments on the underlying mortgages or other loans
will cause the principal and interest on the mortgage- and asset-backed
securities to be paid prior to their stated maturities. A sub-adviser will
consider estimated prepayment rates in calculating the average weighted
maturities of the Series. Unscheduled prepayments are more likely to accelerate
during periods of declining long-term interest rates. In the event of a
prepayment during a period of declining interest rates, a Series may be required
to invest the unanticipated proceeds at a lower interest rate. Prepayments
during such periods will also limit a Series' ability to participate in as large
a market gain as may be experienced with a comparable security not subject to
prepayment.
 
     The Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series may purchase stripped
mortgage-backed securities, which may be considered derivative mortgage-backed
securities, which may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S.
Government or by private entities. Stripped
 
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<PAGE>   147
 
mortgage-backed securities have greater volatility than other types of
mortgage-backed securities. Stripped mortgage-backed securities are structured
with two or more classes that receive different proportions of the interest and
principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. In the most extreme case,
one class will receive all of the interest, while the other class will receive
all of the principal. The yield to maturity of such mortgage backed securities
that are purchased at a substantial discount or premium are extremely sensitive
to changes in interest rates as well as to the rate of principal payments
(including prepayments) on the related underlying mortgage assets.
 
     MORTGAGE DOLLAR ROLLS. Certain Series may enter into mortgage "dollar
rolls" in which a Series sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in the
current month and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar
(same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified future date. During
the roll period, a Series foregoes principal and interest paid on the
mortgage-backed securities. A Series is compensated by the interest earned on
the cash proceeds of the initial sale and from negotiated fees paid by brokers
offered as an inducement to the Series to "roll over" its purchase commitments.
A Series may only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a specific type
of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position which matures on
or before the forward settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. At the
time a Series enters into a mortgage "dollar roll", it will establish a
segregated account with its custodian bank in which it will maintain cash, U.S.
Government securities or other liquid high grade debt obligations equal in value
to its obligations in respect of dollar rolls, and accordingly, such dollar
rolls will not be considered borrowings. Mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk
that the market value of the securities the Series is obligated to repurchase
under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. In the event the
buyer of securities under a mortgage dollar roll files for bankruptcy or becomes
insolvent, the Series' use of proceeds of the dollar roll may be restricted
pending a determination by the other party, or its trustee or receiver, whether
to enforce the Series' obligation to repurchase the securities.
 
     COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS). A Series may invest in CMOs.
CMOs are bonds that are collateralized by whole loan mortgages or mortgage pass-
through securities. In recent years, new types of CMO structures have evolved.
These include floating rate CMOs, planned amortization classes, accrual bonds,
and CMO residuals. Under certain of these new structures, given classes of CMOs
have priority over others with respect to the receipt of prepayments on the
mortgages. Therefore, depending on the type of CMOs in which the Series invests,
the investment may be subject to a greater or lesser risk of prepayment than
other types of mortgage-related securities.
 
     The primary risk of any mortgage security is the uncertainty of the timing
of cash flows. For CMOs, the primary risk results from the rate of prepayments
on the underlying mortgages serving as collateral. An increase or decrease in
prepayment rates (resulting primarily from a decrease or increase in mortgage
interest rates) will affect the yield, average life, and price of CMOs. The
prices of certain CMOs, depending on their structure and the rate of
prepayments, can be volatile. Some CMOs may also not be as liquid as other
securities.
 
     REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS ("REITS"). The REITs in which a Series may
invest include equity REITs, which own real estate properties, and mortgage
REITs, which make construction, development and long-term mortgage loans. The
value of an equity REIT may be affected by changes in the value of the
underlying property, while a mortgage REIT may be affected by the quality of the
credit extended. The performance of both types of REITs depends upon conditions
in the real estate industry, management skills and the amount of cash flow. The
risks associated with REITs include defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation,
failure to qualify as a "pass-through" entity under the Federal tax law, failure
to qualify as an exempt entity under the 1940 Act, and the fact that REITs are
not diversified.
 
     PORTFOLIO TURNOVER. To a limited extent, a Series may engage in short-term
transactions if such transactions further its investment objective. A Series may
sell one security and simultaneously purchase another of comparable quality or
simultaneously purchase and sell the same security to take advantage of
short-term differentials in bond yields or otherwise purchase individual
securities in anticipation of relatively short-term price gains. The rate of
portfolio turnover will not be a determining factor in the purchase and sale of
such securities. However, certain tax rules may restrict the Series' ability to
sell securities in some circumstances when the security has been held for less
than three months. Increased portfolio turnover necessarily results in
correspondingly higher costs including brokerage commissions, dealer mark-ups
and other transaction costs on the sale of securities and reinvestment in other
securities, and may result in the acceleration of taxable gains.
 
     REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS AND REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. A Series may
invest in repurchase or reverse repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement
involves the purchase of a security by a Series and a simultaneous agreement
(generally by a bank or dealer) to repurchase that security from the Series at a
specified price and date or upon demand. This technique offers a method of
 
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<PAGE>   148
 
earning income on idle cash. The repurchase agreement is effectively secured by
the value of the underlying security. A risk associated with repurchase
agreements is the failure of the seller to repurchase the securities as agreed,
which may cause a Series to suffer a loss if the market value of such securities
declines before they can be liquidated on the open market. In the event of
bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, a Series may encounter delays and incur
costs in liquidating the underlying security.
 
     When a Series invests in a reverse repurchase agreement, it sells a
portfolio security to another party, such as a bank or a broker-dealer, in
return for cash, and agrees to buy the security back at a future date and price.
Reverse repurchase agreements may be used to provide cash to satisfy unusually
heavy redemption requests or for other temporary or emergency purposes without
the necessity of selling portfolio securities or to earn additional income on
portfolio securities, such as Treasury bills and notes.
 
     SHORT SALES. Each Series may sell securities "short against the box." While
a short sale is the sale of a security the Series does not own, it is "against
the box" if at all times when the short position is open the Series owns an
equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable
without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the
securities sold short.
 
     U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES AND CUSTODIAL RECEIPTS. Obligations issued or
guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities include Treasury bills, notes and bonds and Government
National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") certificates which are supported by the
full faith and credit of the United States; others, such as those of the Federal
Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the
Treasury; others, such as those of the Federal National Mortgage Association
("FNMA"), are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to
purchase the agency's obligations; and still others, such as those of the
Student Loan Marketing Association, are supported only by the credit of the
instrumentality. No assurance can be given that the U.S. Government will provide
financial support to U.S. Government agencies or instrumentalities in the
future, other than as set forth above, since it is not obligated to do so by
law.
 
     WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES. A Series may purchase securities on a when-issued,
delayed delivery or forward commitment basis. Actual payment for and delivery of
such securities does not take place until some time in the future -- i.e.,
beyond normal settlement. The Series does not earn interest on such securities
until settlement and bears the risk of market value fluctuations during the
period between the purchase and settlement dates. The series segregate and
maintain at all times cash, cash equivalents, or other high quality liquid debt
securities in an amount at least equal to the amount of outstanding commitments
for when-issued securities.
 
     ZERO COUPON AND PAY-IN-KIND BONDS. A Series may invest up to 10% of its
assets in zero coupon bonds or strips. Zero coupon bonds do not make regular
interest payments; rather, they are sold at a discount from face value.
Principal and accreted discount (representing interest accrued but not paid) are
paid at maturity. Strips are debt securities that are stripped of their interest
after the securities are issued, but otherwise are comparable to zero coupon
bonds. The market value of strips and zero coupon bonds generally fluctuates in
response to changes in interest rates to a greater degree than interest-paying
securities of comparable term and quality. A Series may also purchase
pay-in-kind bonds. Pay-in-kind bonds pay all or a portion of their interest in
the form of debt or equity securities.
 
     Zero coupon and pay-in-kind bonds tend to be subject to greater price
fluctuations in response to changes in interest rates than are ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. The value of zero
coupon securities appreciates more during periods of declining interest rates
and depreciates more during periods of rising interest rates than ordinary
interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. Zero coupon securities
and pay-in-kind bonds may be issued by a wide variety of corporate and
governmental issuers.
 
     Current federal income tax law requires the holder of a zero coupon
security, certain pay-in-kind bonds and certain other securities acquired at a
discount (such as Brady Bonds) to accrue income with respect to these securities
prior to the receipt of cash payments. Accordingly, to avoid liability for
federal income and excise taxes, a Series may be required to distribute income
accrued with respect to these securities and may have to dispose of portfolio
securities under disadvantageous circumstances in order to generate cash to
satisfy these distribution requirements.
 
INVESTMENT RISKS
 
  FOREIGN SECURITIES
 
     Investments in foreign securities, including those of foreign governments,
involve risks that are different in some respects from investments in securities
of U.S. issuers, such as the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currencies
in which they are denominated, a heightened risk of adverse political and
economic developments and, with respect to certain countries, the possibility of
expropriation, nationalization or confiscatory taxation or limitations on the
removal of funds or other assets of a Series. Securities of some foreign issuers
in many cases are less
 
                                       24
<PAGE>   149
 
liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. There
also may be less publicly available information about foreign issuers than
domestic issuers, and foreign issuers generally are not subject to the uniform
accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and
requirements applicable to domestic issuers. Certain markets may require payment
for securities before delivery. A Series may have limited legal recourse against
the issuer in the event of a default on a debt instrument. Delays may be
encountered in settling securities transactions in certain foreign markets and a
Series will incur costs in converting foreign currencies into U.S. dollars. Bank
custody charges are generally higher for foreign securities. The JNL Global
Equities, Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond, and T. Rowe Price/JNL International
Equity Investment Series are particularly susceptible to such risks. ADRs do not
involve the same direct currency and liquidity risks as foreign securities.
 
     The considerations noted above may be intensified in the case of
investments in developing countries or countries with limited or developing
capital markets. In particular, developing countries may have relatively
unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries, and securities
markets that trade a small number of securities. Securities of issuers located
in developing countries may have limited marketability and may be subject to
more abrupt or erratic price fluctuations.
 
     At times, securities held by a Series may be listed on foreign exchanges or
traded in foreign markets which are open on days (such as Saturday) when a
Series does not compute its price or accept orders for the purchase, redemption
or exchange of its shares. As a result, the net asset value of a Series may be
significantly affected by trading on days when shareholders cannot make
transactions.
 
     The share price of a Series that invests in foreign securities will reflect
the movements of both the prices of the portfolio securities and the currencies
in which such securities are denominated. A Series' foreign investments may
cause changes in a Series' share price that have a low correlation with movement
in the U.S. markets. Because most of the foreign securities in which a Series
invests will be denominated in foreign currencies, or otherwise will have values
that depend on the performance of foreign currencies relative to the U.S.
dollar, the relative strength of the U.S. dollar may be an important factor in
the performance of a Series, depending on the extent of the Series' foreign
investments.
 
     A Series may employ certain strategies in order to manage exchange rate
risks. For example, a Series may hedge some or all of its investments
denominated in or exposed to a foreign currency against a decline in the value
of that currency. A Series may enter into contracts to sell that foreign
currency for U. S. dollars (not exceeding the value of a Series' assets
denominated in or exposed to that currency) or by participating in options or
futures contracts with respect to such currency ("position hedge"). A Series
could also hedge that position by selling a second currency, which is expected
to perform similarly to the currency in which portfolio investments are
denominated, for U.S. dollars ("proxy hedge"). A Series may also enter into a
forward contract to sell the currency in which the security is denominated for a
second currency that is expected to perform better relative to the U.S. dollar
if the sub-adviser believes there is a reasonable degree of correlation between
movements in the two currencies ("cross hedge"). In addition, when a Series
anticipates purchasing securities denominated in or exposed to a particular
currency, the Series may enter into a forward contract to purchase or sell such
currency in exchange for the dollar or another currency ("anticipatory hedge").
 
     These strategies minimize the effect of currency appreciation as well as
depreciation, but do not protect against a decline in the underlying value of
the hedged security. In addition, such strategies may reduce or eliminate the
opportunity to profit from increases in the value of the original currency and
may adversely impact a Series' performance if the sub-adviser's projection of
future exchange rates is inaccurate.
 
  FUTURES, OPTIONS AND OTHER DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
     The use of futures, options, forward contracts, and swaps ("derivative
instruments") exposes a Series to additional investment risks and transaction
costs. If a sub-adviser seeks to protect a Series against potential adverse
movements in the securities, foreign currency or interest rate markets using
these instruments, and such markets do not move in a direction adverse to the
Series, that Series could be left in a less favorable position than if such
strategies had not been used. Risks inherent in the use of futures, options,
forward contracts and swaps include (1) the risk that interest rates, securities
prices and currency markets will not move in the directions anticipated; (2)
imperfect correlation between the price of derivative instruments and movements
in the prices of the securities, interest rates or currencies being hedged; (3)
the fact that skills needed to use these strategies are different from those
needed to select portfolio securities; (4) the possible absence of a liquid
secondary market for any particular instrument at any time; and (5) the possible
need to defer closing out certain hedged positions to avoid adverse tax
consequences.
 
  HIGH YIELD/HIGH RISK BONDS
 
     Lower rated bonds involve a higher degree of credit risk, which is the risk
that the issuer will not make interest
 
                                       25
<PAGE>   150
 
or principal payments when due. In the event of an unanticipated default, a
Series would experience a reduction in its income, a decline in the market value
of the securities so affected and a decline in the value of its shares. More
careful analysis of the financial condition of issuers of lower rated securities
is therefore necessary. During an economic downturn or substantial period of
rising interest rates, highly leveraged issuers may experience financial stress
which could adversely affect their ability to service principal and interest
payment obligations, to meet projected business goals and to obtain additional
financing.
 
     The market prices of lower rated securities are generally less sensitive to
interest rate changes than higher rated investments, but more sensitive to
adverse economic or political changes, or individual developments specific to
the issuer. Periods of economic or political uncertainty and change can be
expected to result in volatility of prices of these securities. Since the last
major economic recession, there has been a substantial increase in the use of
high-yield debt securities to fund highly leveraged corporate acquisitions and
restructurings, so past experience with high-yield securities in a prolonged
economic downturn may not provide an accurate indication of future performance
during such periods. Lower rated securities also may have less liquid markets
than higher rated securities, and their liquidity as well as their value may be
more severely affected by adverse economic conditions. Many high-yield bonds do
not trade frequently. When they do trade, their price may be substantially
higher or lower than had been expected. A lack of liquidity also means that
judgment may play a bigger role in valuing the securities. Adverse publicity and
investor perceptions as well as new or proposed laws may also have a greater
negative impact on the market for lower rated bonds.
 
     A Series may also invest in unrated debt securities of foreign and domestic
issuers. Unrated debt, while not necessarily of lower quality than rated
securities, may not have as broad a market. Sovereign debt of foreign
governments is generally rated by country, because these ratings do not take
into account individual factors relevant to each issue and may not be updated
regularly. Because of the size and perceived demand of the issue, among other
factors, certain municipalities may not incur the costs of obtaining a rating.
The sub-adviser will analyze the credit-worthiness of the issuer, as well as any
financial institution or other party responsible for payments on the security,
in determining whether to purchase unrated municipal bonds. (See Appendix A for
a description of bond rating categories).
 
  HIGH YIELD FOREIGN SOVEREIGN DEBT SECURITIES
 
     Investing in fixed and floating rate high yield foreign sovereign debt
securities will expose the Series investing in such securities to the direct or
indirect consequences of political, social or economic changes in the countries
that issue the securities. (See "Foreign Securities"). The ability and
willingness of sovereign obligors in developing and emerging market countries or
the governmental authorities that control repayment of their external debt to
pay principal and interest on such debt when due may depend on general economic
and political conditions within the relevant country. Countries such as those in
which a Series may invest have historically experienced, and may continue to
experience, high rates of inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate trade
difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment. Many of these countries are
also characterized by political uncertainty or instability. Additional factors
which may influence the ability or willingness to service debt include, but are
not limited to, a country's cash flow situation, the availability of sufficient
foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of its debt
service burden to the economy as a whole, and its government's policy towards
the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other international
agencies.
 
  HYBRID INSTRUMENTS
 
     The risks of investing in hybrid instruments reflect a combination of the
risks of investing in securities, options, futures and currencies, including
volatility and lack of liquidity. Reference is made to the discussion of
futures, options, and forward contracts herein for a discussion of these risks.
Further, the prices of the hybrid instrument and the related commodity or
currency may not move in the same direction or at the same time. Hybrid
instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or
even relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear
interest at above market rates but bear an increased risk of principal loss. In
addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid instruments could take place
in an over-the-counter or in a private transaction between the Series and the
seller of the hybrid instrument, the creditworthiness of the counter-party to
the transaction would be a risk factor which the Series would have to consider.
Hybrid instruments also may not be subject to regulation of the CFTC, which
generally regulates the trading of commodity futures by U.S. persons, the SEC,
which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any
other governmental regulatory authority.
 
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<PAGE>   151
 
  MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
 
     In addition to the usual risks associated with income investing, the value
of municipal obligations can be affected by changes in the actual or perceived
credit quality of municipal obligations held by a Series. The credit quality of
a municipal obligation can be affected by, among other factors, the financial
condition of the issuer or guarantor, the issuer's future borrowing plans and
sources of revenue, the economic feasibility of the revenue bond project or
general borrowing purpose, political or economic developments in the region
where the security is issued, and the liquidity of the security. Because
municipal obligations are generally traded over-the-counter, the liquidity of a
particular issue often depends on the willingness of dealers to make a market in
the security. The liquidity of some municipal issues may be enhanced by demand
features, which enable a Series to demand payment on short notice from the
issuer or a financial intermediary.
 
  WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES
 
     The price of such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is
fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment
take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date occurs within 90 days
of the purchase for when-issued securities, but may be substantially longer for
forward commitments. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by the Series to the issuer and no interest accrues to the
Series. The purchase of these securities will result in a loss if their value
declines prior to the settlement date. This could occur, for example, if
interest rates increase prior to settlement. The longer the period between
purchase and settlement, the greater the risks. At the time the Series makes the
commitment to purchase these securities, it will record the transaction and
reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset value. The Series
will segregate for these securities by maintaining cash and/or liquid debt
securities with its custodian bank equal in value to commitments for them during
the time between the purchase and the settlement. Therefore, the longer this
period, the longer the period during which alternative investment options are
not available to the Series (to the extent of the securities used for cover).
Such securities either will mature or, if necessary, be sold on or before the
settlement date.
 
                                       27
<PAGE>   152
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
     Under Massachusetts law and the Trust's Declaration of Trust and By-Laws,
the management of the business and affairs of the Trust is the responsibility of
the Trustees.
 
     JNFSI, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan 48911, is the investment
adviser of each Series and provides each Series with professional investment
supervision and management. JNFSI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Jackson
National Life Insurance Company, which is in turn wholly owned by Prudential
Corporation plc, the largest life insurance company in the United Kingdom. JNFSI
has been providing investment advisory services to management investment
companies since 1992 and as of December 31, 1996, had approximately $1 billion
under management.
 
     JNFSI provides preparation of financial statements, tax services, and
regulatory reports to the Trust. JNFSI also selects, contracts with and
compensates sub-advisers to manage the investment and reinvestment of the
assets of the Series of the Trust. JNFSI monitors the compliance of such
sub-advisers with the investment objectives and related policies of each Series
and reviews the performance of such sub-advisers and reports periodically on
such performance to the Trustees of the Trust.
 
     As compensation for its services, JNFSI receives a fee from the Trust
computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as an
annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of the Series. The
fees, which are accrued daily and payable monthly, are calculated on the basis
of the average of all valuations of net assets of each Series made at the close
of business on each business day of the Trust during the period for which such
fees are paid through the date of calculation. Once the average net assets of a
Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is reduced with respect to such excess.
The following is a schedule of the fees each Series currently is obligated to
pay JNFSI.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $50 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M -- MILLION)                                                $50 M    $150 M    $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- ---------------                                                -----    ------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%    1.00%       .95%       .90%      .90%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%    .975%      .975%       .95%      .90%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%     .60%      .575%       .55%     .525%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%     .70%       .65%       .60%      .55%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .80%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%    1.05%      1.00%       .95%      .90%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .90%
</TABLE>
 
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISERS
     The organizations described below act as sub-advisers to the Trust and
certain of its Series pursuant to Sub-Advisory Agreements with JNFSI. Under the
Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-advisers manage the investment and reinvestment
of the assets of the respective Series for which they are responsible. Each of
the sub-advisers discharges its responsibilities subject to the policies of the
Trustees and the oversight and supervision of JNFSI, which pays the
sub-advisers' fees.
 
     Fred Alger Management, Inc., ("Alger Management") which is located at 75
Maiden Lane, New York,
New York 10038, serves as sub-adviser to the JNL/Alger Growth Series. Alger
Management is generally engaged in the business of rendering investment advisory
services to institutions and, to a lesser extent, individuals. Alger Management
has been engaged in the business of rendering investment advisory services since
1964 and, as of December 31, 1996, had approximately $7.1 billion under
management, $5.2 billion in mutual fund accounts and $1.9 billion in other
advisory accounts. Alger Management is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fred Alger &
Company, Inc. which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alger Associates,
Inc., a financial services holding company. Fred M. Alger III and his brother,
David D. Alger are majority shareholders of Alger Associates, Inc. and may be
deemed to control that company and its subsidiaries.
 
     Janus Capital Corporation ("Janus Capital"), a Colorado corporation with
principal offices at 100 Fillmore Street, Denver, Colorado 80206, serves as
sub-adviser to
 
                                       28
<PAGE>   153
 
the JNL Capital Growth Series, the JNL Aggressive Growth Series and the JNL
Global Equities Series. Janus Capital is an investment adviser with
approximately $50 billion in assets under management. Kansas City Southern
Industries, Inc. ("KCSI") owns approximately 83% of the outstanding voting stock
of Janus Capital, most of which it acquired in 1984. KCSI is a publicly-traded
holding company whose primary subsidiaries are engaged in transportation and
financial services. Thomas H. Bailey, President and Chairman of the Board of
Janus Capital, owns approximately 12% of its voting stock and, by agreement with
KCSI, selects a majority of Janus Capital's Board.
 
     PPM America, Inc. ("PPM"), which is located at 225 West Wacker Drive,
Chicago, Illinois 60606, serves as sub-adviser to the PPM America/JNL High Yield
Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series. PPM, an affiliate of
JNFSI, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Prudential Portfolio Managers Ltd., ("PPM
Ltd.") an investment management company engaged in global money management,
which is in turn wholly owned by Prudential Corporation plc. PPM Ltd. and its
subsidiaries manage over $120 billion in various currencies and markets. PPM
currently manages over $26 billion of Jackson National Life Insurance Company
assets. Additionally, PPM manages assets of over $5.7 billion for other
affiliated companies and over $878 million for non-affiliated entities.
 
     Rowe Price-Fleming International, Inc. ("Price-Fleming"), located at 100
East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T.
Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series. Price-Fleming was founded
in 1979 as a joint venture between T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and Robert
Fleming Holdings Limited. Price-Fleming is one of America's largest
international mutual fund asset managers with approximately $18 billion under
management in its offices in Baltimore, London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore.
 
     Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc ("SBAM") serves as sub-adviser to the
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S.
Government & Quality Bond Series. SBAM is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary
of Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. which is, in turn, wholly owned by
Salomon Inc. ("SI"). SBAM was incorporated in 1987, and, together with
affiliates in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and Hong Kong, SBAM provides a broad
range of fixed income and equity investment advisory services to various
individual and institutional clients located throughout the world and serves as
sub-advisor to various investment companies. In providing such investment
advisory services, SBAM has access to SI's more than 400 economists, mortgage
bond, sovereign and equity analysts. As of December 31, 1996, SBAM and its
worldwide investment affiliates managed approximately $17.8 billion. SBAM's
business offices are located at 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048.
 
     In connection with SBAM's service as sub-adviser to the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series, SBAM Limited, whose business address is
Victoria Plaza, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W OSB, England, provides
certain sub-advisory services to SBAM relating to currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the benefit of the
Series. SBAM Limited is compensated by SBAM at no additional expense to the
Trust. Like SBAM, SBAM Limited is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of
Salomon Brothers Holding Company Inc. SBAM Limited is a member of the Investment
Management Regulatory Organization Limited in the United Kingdom and is
registered as an investment adviser in the United States pursuant to the
Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
 
     T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("T. Rowe"), located at 100 East Pratt
Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as sub-adviser to the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series and the T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth
Series. T. Rowe was founded in 1937 by the late Thomas Rowe Price, Jr. T. Rowe
and its affiliates manage over $95 billion for approximately 4.5 million
individual and institutional investor accounts, including limited and real
estate partnerships and other mutual funds.
 
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
 
     The following individuals are primarily responsible for the day-to-day
management of the particular Series as indicated below.
 
JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
     Helen Young Hayes is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Global Equities Series. Ms. Hayes joined Janus Capital in 1987. She holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
     James P. Goff is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Capital Growth Series. Mr. Goff joined Janus Capital in 1988. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and is a Chartered Financial
Analyst.
 
JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
     Warren B. Lammert is responsible for the day-to-day management of the JNL
Aggressive Growth Series. Mr. Lammert joined Janus Capital in 1987. He holds a
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   154
 
Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and a Master of Science in
Economic History from the London School of Economics. He is a Chartered
Financial Analyst.
 
JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
 
     David D. Alger, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alger
Management, is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the
JNL/Alger Growth Series. He has been employed by Alger Management as Executive
Vice President and Director of Research since 1971 and he serves as portfolio
manager for other mutual funds and investment accounts managed by Alger
Management. Also participating in the management of the Series are Ronald
Tartaro and Seilai Khoo. Mr. Tartaro has been employed by Alger Management
since 1990 and he serves as a senior research analyst. Prior to 1990, he was a
member of the technical staff at AT&T Bell Laboratories. Ms. Khoo has been
employed by Alger Management since 1989 and she serves as a senior research
analyst.
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
 
PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
 
     In its capacity as sub-adviser, PPM supervises and manages the investment
portfolios of the PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL
Money Market Series and directs the purchase and sale of each Series' investment
securities. PPM utilizes teams of investment professionals acting together to
manage the assets of the Series. The teams meet regularly to review portfolio
holdings and to discuss purchase and sale activity. The teams adjust holdings in
the portfolios as they deem appropriate in the pursuit of the Series' investment
objectives. PPM has supervised and managed the investment portfolios of the PPM
America/JNL High Yield Bond Series and the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series
since the commencement of operations of each Series.
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
 
     Steven Guterman is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series and the mortgage-
backed securities and U.S. Government securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Guterman co-manages the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series with Roger Lavan.
 
     Mr. Guterman, who joined SBAM in 1990, is a Managing Director of Salomon
Brothers Inc and a Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager of SBAM,
responsible for SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios which
invest primarily in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government issues. Mr.
Guterman also serves as portfolio manager for two offshore mortgage funds and a
number of institutional clients. Mr. Guterman joined Salomon Brothers Inc in
1983, working initially in the mortgage research group where he became a
Research Director and later traded derivative mortgage-backed securities.
 
     Mr. Lavan joined SBAM in 1990 and is a Portfolio Manager and Quantitative
Fixed Income Analyst, responsible for working for senior portfolio managers to
monitor and analyze market relationships and identify and implement relative
value transactions in SBAM's investment company and institutional portfolios
which invest in mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Government securities. Prior
to joining SBAM, Mr. Lavan spent four years analyzing portfolios for Salomon
Brothers Inc's Fixed Income Sales Group and Product Support Divisions.
 
     Peter J. Wilby is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of
the high yield and emerging market debt securities portions of the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Beth Semmel assists Mr. Wilby in the day-to-day
management of the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Mr. Wilby, who joined
SBAM in 1989, is a Managing Director of Salomon Brothers Inc and SBAM and Senior
Portfolio Manager of SBAM, responsible for investment company and institutional
portfolios which invest in high yield non-U.S. and U.S. corporate debt
securities and high yield foreign sovereign debt securities. From 1984 to 1989,
Mr. Wilby was employed by Prudential Capital Management Group ("Prudential")
where he served as Director of Prudential's credit research unit and as a
corporate and sovereign credit analyst with Prudential. Mr. Wilby also managed
high yield bonds and leveraged equities in the mutual funds and institutional
portfolios at Prudential. Ms. Semmel is a Director and Portfolio Manager of SBAM
and a Director of Salomon Brothers Inc. Ms. Semmel joined SBAM in May of 1993,
where she manages high yield portfolios. Prior to joining SBAM, Ms. Semmel spent
four years as a high yield bond analyst at Morgan Stanley Asset Management.
 
     David J. Scott is primarily responsible for currency transactions and
investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series. Prior to joining SBAM Limited in April 1994,
Mr. Scott worked for four years at JP Morgan Investment Management ("JP Morgan")
where he was responsible for global and non-dollar portfolios for clients
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   155
 
including departments of various governments, pension funds and insurance
companies. Before joining JP Morgan, Mr. Scott worked for three years at Mercury
Asset Management where he was responsible for captive insurance portfolios and
products.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
     Robert W. Smith is responsible for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series. Mr. Smith is a Vice President and Equity
Portfolio Manager for T. Rowe and Price-Fleming. He is also responsible for the
North American component of other investment company and institutional client
portfolios. Prior to joining T. Rowe in 1992, Mr. Smith was employed as an
Investment Analyst for Massachusetts Financial Services. He earned a BS (finance
and economics) from the University of Delaware and an MBA (finance) from the
Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, University of Virginia. Mr.
Smith has had responsibility for the day-to-day management of the T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series since February 21, 1997.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series has an
investment advisory group that has day-to-day responsibility for managing the
Series and developing and executing the Series' investment program. The Series'
advisory group is composed of the following members: Martin G. Wade, Christopher
D. Alderson, Peter B. Askew, Mark J.T. Edward, John R. Ford, James B.M. Seddon,
Benedict R.F. Thomas, and David J.J. Warren.
 
     Martin Wade joined Price-Fleming in 1979 and has 26 years of experience
with the Fleming Group in research, client service, and investment management.
(Fleming Group includes Robert Fleming and/or Jardine Fleming Group Limited).
Christopher Alderson joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has nine years of
experience with the Fleming Group in research and portfolio management. Peter
Askew joined Price-Fleming in 1988 and has 20 years of experience managing
multi-currency fixed income portfolios. Mark Edwards joined Price-Fleming in
1986 and has 14 years of experience in financial analysis. John Ford joined
Price-Fleming in 1982 and has 15 years of experience with the Fleming Group in
research and portfolio management. James Seddon joined Price-Fleming in 1987 and
has eight years of experience in investment management. Benedict Thomas joined
Price-Fleming in 1988 and has six years of portfolio management experience.
David Warren joined Price-Fleming in 1984 and has 15 years of experience in
equity research, fixed income research and portfolio management.
 
T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
 
     The T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series has an Investment Advisory
Committee composed of the following members: Brian W. Berghuis, Chairman, James
A.C. Kennedy, and John F. Wakeman. The Committee Chairman has day to day
responsibility for managing the Series and works with the Committee in
developing and executing the Series' investment program. Mr. Berghuis has been
managing investments since joining T. Rowe in 1985.
 
SUB-ADVISORY ARRANGEMENTS
 
     Under the terms of each of the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the sub-adviser
manages the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the assigned Series,
subject to the supervision of the Trustees of the Trust. The sub-adviser
formulates a continuous investment program for each such Series consistent with
its investment objectives and policies outlined in this Prospectus. Each
sub-adviser implements such programs by purchases and sales of securities and
regularly reports to JNFSI and the Trustees of the Trust with respect to the
implementation of such programs.
 
     As compensation for their services, the sub-advisers receive fees from
JNFSI computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as
an annual percentage of the current value of the net assets of such Series. The
fees are calculated on the basis of the average of all valuations of net assets
of each Series made at the close of business on each business day of the Trust
during the period for which such fees are paid through the date of calculation.
Once the average net assets of a Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is
reduced with respect to such excess. The following is a schedule of the
management fees JNFSI currently is obligated to pay the sub-advisers out of the
advisory fee it receives from each Series as specified above:
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   156
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           $0 TO    $50 TO    $100 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(*M - MILLION)                                             $50 M    $100 M    $150 M     $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- --------------                                             -----    ------    -------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                        <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series*..........................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Capital Growth Series*.............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Global Equities Series*............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................     .55%      .55%       .55%       .55%      .50%       .45%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series.................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................     .20%      .15%       .15%      .125%      .10%      .075%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................    .375%      .35%       .35%       .30%      .30%       .25%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................    .225%     .225%      .225%      .175%      .15%       .10%
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $20 TO    $50 TO
                                                                $20 M    $50 M     $200 M      $200 M+
                                                                -----    ------    ------      -------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>         <C>
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .45%      .40%     .40%**       .40%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     .75%      .60%     .50%         .50%**
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .60%      .50%     .50%**       .50%
</TABLE>
 
 * Prior to September 16, 1996, the sub-advisory fees payable to Janus for these
   Series were: $0 to $50 million -- .60%; $50 to $150 million -- .55%; $150 to
   $300 million -- .45%; $300 to $500 million -- .40%; over $500 million --
   .40%.
 
** When average assets exceed this amount, the sub-advisory fee asterisked is
   applicable to all amounts in this Series.
 
     With respect to the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series and in
connection with the advisory consulting agreement between Salomon Brothers and
SBAM Limited, Salomon Brothers will pay SBAM Limited, as full compensation for
all services provided under the advisory consulting agreement, a portion of its
investment management fee. The amount payable to SBAM Limited will be equal to
the fee payable under Salomon Brothers' sub-advisory agreement multiplied by the
portion of the assets of the Series that SBAM Limited has been delegated to
manage divided by the current value of the net assets of the Series.
 
OTHER TRUST EXPENSES
 
     In addition to the investment advisory fee, the Trust incurs expenses,
including legal, auditing and accounting expenses, Trustees' fees and expenses,
insurance premiums, brokers' commissions, taxes and governmental fees, expenses
of issue or redemption of shares, expenses of registering or qualifying shares
for sale, reports and notices to shareholders, and fees and disbursements of
custodians, transfer agents, registrars, shareholder servicing agents and
dividend disbursing agents, and certain expenses with respect to membership fees
of industry associations.
 
                                       32
<PAGE>   157
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           INVESTMENT IN TRUST SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company purchases the shares of the Series at their net asset
value using premiums received on Policies issued by Accounts. These Accounts are
funded by shares of the Trust. There is no sales charge. All shares are sold at
net asset value.
 
     The net asset value per share of each Series is determined at the close of
regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern
time) each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open. The net asset value per
share is calculated by adding the value of all securities and other assets of a
Series, deducting its liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares
outstanding.
 
     Shares of the Trust are currently sold primarily to separate accounts of
Jackson National Life Insurance Company, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan
48911 to fund the benefits under variable insurance or annuity Policies.
Further, it is anticipated that shares of the Trust will be sold to certain
qualified retirement plans.
 
     All investments in the Trust are credited to the shareholder's account in
the form of full and fractional shares of the designated Series (rounded to the
nearest 1/1000 of a share). The Trust does not issue share certificates.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                SHARE REDEMPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     An insurance company separate account redeems shares to make benefit or
surrender payments under the terms of its Policies. Redemptions are processed on
any day on which the Trust is open for business and are effected at net asset
value next determined after the redemption order, in proper form, is received by
the Trust's transfer agent.
 
     The Trust may suspend the right of redemption only under the following
unusual circumstances:
 
     - when the New York Stock Exchange is closed (other than weekends and
       holidays) or trading is restricted;
 
     - when an emergency exists, making disposal of portfolio securities or the
       valuation of net assets not reasonably practicable; or
 
     - during any period when the SEC has by order permitted a suspension of
       redemption for the protection of shareholders.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     DESCRIPTION OF SHARES -- The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to
issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest
of each Series and to divide or combine such shares into a greater or lesser
number of shares without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial interests
in the Trust. Each share of a Series represents an equal proportional interest
in that Series with each other share. The Trust reserves the right to create a
number of different Series. In that case, the shares of each Series would
participate equally in the earnings, dividends, and assets of the particular
Series. Upon liquidation of a Series, its shareholders are entitled to share pro
rata in the net assets of such Series available for distribution to
shareholders.
 
     As of April 7, 1997, Jackson National Life Insurance Company owned 5.2% of
the outstanding shares of the Trust.
 
     SERIES TRANSACTIONS -- The Trust's portfolio transactions are executed
through brokers who are considered by the appropriate sub-adviser as able to
provide execution at the most favorable prices and in the most effective manner.
Portfolio security transactions may be executed through brokers who are
affiliated with the Trust, JNFSI or a sub-adviser. In addition, brokers may be
selected taking into account such brokers' assistance in the purchase of
variable annuity contracts funded by the Trust (although such assistance or
absence thereof is neither a qualifying nor a disqualifying factor in such
selection). See the Statement of Additional Information for more detailed
information.
 
     VOTING RIGHTS -- Except for matters affecting a particular Series, as
described below, all shares of the Trust have equal voting rights and may be
voted in the election of Trustees and on other matters submitted to the vote of
the shareholders. Shareholders' meetings ordinarily
 
                                       33
<PAGE>   158
 
will not be held unless required by the 1940 Act. As permitted by Massachusetts
law, there normally will be no shareholders' meetings for the purpose of
electing Trustees unless and until such time as fewer than a majority of the
Trustees holding office have been elected by shareholders. At that time, the
Trustees then in office will call a shareholders' meeting for the election of
Trustees. The Trustees must call a meeting of shareholders for the purpose of
voting upon the removal of any Trustee when requested to do so by the record
holders of 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. A Trustee may be removed
after the holders of record of not less than two-thirds of the outstanding
shares have declared that the Trustee be removed either by declaration in
writing or by votes cast in person or by proxy. Except as set forth above, the
Trustees shall continue to hold office and may appoint successor Trustees,
provided that immediately after the appointment of any successor Trustee, at
least two-thirds of the Trustees have been elected by the shareholders. Shares
do not have cumulative voting rights. Thus, holders of a majority of the shares
voting for the election of Trustees can elect all the Trustees. No amendment may
be made to the Declaration of Trust without the affirmative vote of a majority
of the outstanding shares of the Trust, except that amendments to conform the
Declaration to the requirements of applicable federal laws or regulations or the
regulated investment company provisions of the Code may be made by the Trustees
without the vote or consent of shareholders. If not terminated by the vote or
written consent of a majority of its outstanding shares, the Trust will continue
indefinitely.
 
     In matters affecting only a particular Series, the matter shall have been
effectively acted upon by a majority vote of that Series even though: (1) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of any other Series; or (2) the
matter has not been approved by a majority vote of the Trust.
 
     Shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the
Trust. The risk of a shareholder incurring any financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself
would be unable to meet its obligations. The Declaration of Trust contains an
express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust
and provides that notice of the disclaimer must be given in each agreement,
obligation or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or Trustees. The
Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of any shareholder held
personally liable for the obligations of the Trust and also provides for the
Trust to reimburse the shareholder for all legal and other expenses reasonably
incurred in connection with any such claim or liability.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     PERFORMANCE ADVERTISING FOR THE SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust may from time to time advertise several types of historical
performance for the Series. The performance advertised will be based on
historical results and is not intended to indicate future performance. The
performance figures advertised for a Series may or may not reflect the effect of
any charges that are imposed under a variable annuity or variable life contract
that is funded by the Trust. Such charges, described in the variable annuity or
variable life prospectus, will have the effect of reducing the performance
described below.
 
     Each Series may advertise standardized average annual total return,
calculated in a manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
non-standardized total return. Standardized average annual total return will
show the percentage rate of return of a hypothetical initial investment of
$1,000 for the most recent one, five and ten year periods, or for a period
covering the time the Series has been in existence if the Series has not been in
existence for one of the prescribed periods. Because average annual total
returns tend to smooth out variations in the Series' returns, you should
recognize that they are not the same as actual year-by-year results. Non-
standardized total return may be for periods other than those required to be
presented or may otherwise differ from standardized average annual total return.
 
     Each Series may also advertise yield, and the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series may also advertise effective yield. Yield, as calculated by each Series
other than the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, refers to the annualized
income generated by an investment in the Series over a specified thirty-day
period. The yield is calculated by assuming that the income generated by the
investment during that thirty-day period is generated each thirty-day period
over a twelve-month period and is shown as a percentage of the investment.
Yield, as calculated by the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, is a measure of
the net dividend and interest income earned over a specific seven-day period
expressed as a percentage of the offering price of the Series. The yield is an
annualized figure, which means that it is assumed that the Series generates the
same level of net income over a 52-week period. Effective yield is calculated
under rules prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission and assumes a
weekly reinvestment of income earned. The effective
 
                                       34
<PAGE>   159
 
yield will be slightly higher than the yield due to this compounding effect.
Because yield accounting methods differ from the methods used for financial
reporting and tax accounting purposes, a Series' yield may not equal its
distribution rate, the income paid to a shareholder's account, or the income
reported in the Series' financial statements.
 
     The performance of the Series may be compared to the performance of other
mutual funds or mutual fund indices with similar objectives and policies as
reported by Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"), CDA Investment
Technologies, Inc. ("CDA") or Donoghue's Money Fund Report. Lipper and CDA
performance calculations are based upon changes in net asset value with all
dividends reinvested and do not include the effect of any sales charges. The
Series' performance may also be compared to that of the Consumer Price Index or
various unmanaged stock and bond indices including, but not limited to, Salomon
Brothers Broad Investment Grade Index, Lehman Brothers High Yield Index, Lehman
Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, Salomon Brothers Treasury Index, S&P MidCap 400
Index, Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index, Morgan Stanley Europe
and Australasia, Far East Equity Index, Russell 2000 Index, and S&P 500 Index.
 
     From time to time, a Series also may quote information from publications
including, but not limited to, the following: Morningstar, Inc., The Wall Street
Journal, Money Magazine, Forbes, Barron's, The New York Times, USA Today,
Institutional Investor and Registered Representative. Also, investors may want
to compare the historical returns of various investments, performance indices of
those investments or economic indicators, including but not limited to stocks,
bonds, certificates of deposit and other bank products, money market funds and
U.S. Treasury obligations. Certain of these alternative investments may offer
fixed rates of return and guaranteed principal, and may be insured. Economic
indicators may include, without limitation, indicators of market rate trends and
cost of funds, such as Federal Home Loan Bank Board 11th District Cost of Funds
Index (COFI).
 
     Each Series' shares are sold at net asset value. Each Series' returns will
fluctuate. Shares of a Series are redeemable by an investor at the then current
net asset value, which may be more or less than original cost. Additional
information concerning each Series' performance appears in the Statement of
Additional Information, and in the Trust's Annual Report to Shareholders which
may be obtained, without charge, by writing or calling the Trust.
 
     SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES -- All inquiries regarding the Trust should be
directed to the Trust at the telephone number or address shown on the cover page
of this Prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   TAX STATUS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     The Trust's policy is to meet the requirements of Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code. Each Series intends to distribute all its taxable net
investment income and capital gains to shareholders, and therefore, will not be
required to pay any federal income taxes.
 
     Each Series of the Trust is treated as a separate entity for purposes of
the regulated investment company provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and,
therefore, the assets, income, and distributions of each Series are considered
separately for purposes of determining whether or not the Series qualifies as a
regulated investment company.
 
                                       35
<PAGE>   160
 
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT
 
State Street Bank and Trust Company
1776 Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
 
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
Price Waterhouse LLP
100 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
 
LEGAL COUNSEL
 
Blazzard, Grodd & Hasenauer, P.C.
943 Post Road East
Westport, CT 06881
 
INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.
5901 Executive Drive
Lansing, Michigan 48911
 
                                       36
<PAGE>   161
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      APPENDIX A -- RATINGS OF INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
A-1, A-2 AND PRIME-1, PRIME-2 COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
 
     Commercial paper rated by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group has the following
characteristics: Liquidity ratios are adequate to meet cash requirements.
Long-term senior debt is rated "A" or better. The issuer has access to at least
two additional channels of borrowing. Basic earnings and cash flow have an
upward trend with allowance made for unusual circumstances. Typically, the
issuer's industry is well established and the issuer has a strong position
within the industry. The reliability and quality of management are unquestioned.
Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determine whether the
issuer's commercial paper is rated A-1 or A-2.
 
     The ratings Prime-1 and Prime-2 are the two highest commercial paper
ratings assigned by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. Among the factors considered
by it in assigning ratings are the following: (1) evaluation of the management
of the issuer; (2) economic evaluation of the issuer's industry or industries
and an appraisal of speculative-type risks which may be inherent in certain
areas; (3) evaluation of the issuer's products in relation to competition and
customer-acceptance; (4) liquidity; (5) amount and quality of long-term debt;
(6) trend of earnings over a period of ten years; (7) financial strength of a
parent company and the relationships which exist with the issuer; and (8)
recognition by the management of obligations which may be present or may arise
as a result of public interest questions and preparations to meet such
obligations. Relative strength or weakness of the above factors determines
whether the issuer's commercial paper is rated Prime-1 or 2.
 
CORPORATE BONDS
 
  STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the higher rated issued only in small degree.
 
     A. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
 
     BBB. Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
 
     BB, B, CCC, CC, C. Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC, and C is regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest
and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. BB indicates
the lowest degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
 
     CI. The rating CI is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is
being paid.
 
     D. Debt rated D is in default, and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
 
  MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
                                       A-1
<PAGE>   162
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time.
 
     Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact, have
speculative characteristics as well.
 
     BA. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
 
     B. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
 
     CAA. Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal and
interest.
 
     CA. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in
a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
 
     C. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues
so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
 
MUNICIPAL BONDS
 
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
 
     AA. Bonds rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differ from the higher rated issues only in small degree.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated
categories.
 
     BBB. Bonds which are rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity
to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate
protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are
more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal
for bonds in this category than for bonds in higher rated categories.
 
     Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "B" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
 
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
 
     AAA. Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
 
     AA. Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
 
     A. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
 
     BAA. Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in
fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
 
     NOTE: Moody's applies numerical modifiers, 1, 2 AND 3 in each generic
rating classification from "AA" through "B" in its corporate bond rating system.
The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its
generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the
modifier indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating
category.
 
                                       A-2
<PAGE>   163
                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

                                  MAY 1, 1997

                                JNL SERIES TRUST

     JNL Aggressive Growth Series
     JNL Capital Growth Series
     JNL Global Equities Series
     JNL/Alger Growth Series
     JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series
     JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series
     JNL/Putnam Growth Series
     JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series
     PPM America/JNL Balanced Series
     PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series
     PPM America/JNL Money Market Series
     Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series
     Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series
     T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series
     T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series 
     T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series


     This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus.  It contains
information in addition to and more detailed than set forth in the Prospectus
and should be read in conjunction with the JNL Series Trust Prospectus, dated
May 1, 1997.  Not all Series described in the Statement of Additional
Information may be available for investment.  The Prospectus may be obtained by
calling (800) 322-8257, or writing P.O. Box 25127, Lansing, Michigan 48909.


                               TABLE OF CONTENTS


             General Information and History                    2
             Investment Restrictions Applicable to all Series   2
             Common Types of Securities                         4
             Trustees and Officers of the Trust                10
             Performance                                       11
             Investment Adviser and Other Services             15
             Purchases, Redemptions and Pricing of Shares      19
             Additional Information                            21
             Tax Status                                        22
             Financial Statements                              23


                                                       

                                       1




<PAGE>   164

                        GENERAL INFORMATION AND HISTORY

     The JNL Series Trust ("Trust") is an open-end management investment
company organized under the laws of Massachusetts, by a Declaration of Trust,
dated June 1, 1994.  The Trust offers shares in 16 separate Series, each with
its own investment objective.

                INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS APPLICABLE TO ALL SERIES

     As indicated in the Prospectus, each Series is subject to certain
fundamental policies and restrictions that may not be changed without
shareholder approval.  Shareholder approval means approval by the lesser of (i)
more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust (or a
particular Series if a matter affects just that Series), or (ii) 67% or more of
the voting securities present at a meeting if the holders of more than 50% of
the outstanding voting securities of the Trust (or a particular Series) are
present or represented by proxy.  Unless otherwise indicated, all restrictions
apply at the time of investment.  As fundamental policies, no Series may:

     (1)  Own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one
issuer and, as to fifty percent (50%) of the value of the total assets for JNL
Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series, and as to seventy-five percent
(75%) of the value of the total assets of the other Series, purchase the
securities of any one issuer (except cash items and "government securities" as
defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act")),
if immediately after and as a result of such purchase, the value of the
holdings of a Series in the securities of such issuer exceeds 5% of the value
of such Series' total assets.  With respect to the other 50% of the value of
its total assets, JNL Capital Growth and JNL Aggressive Growth Series may
invest in the securities of as few as two issuers (not to exceed 25% in any one
issuer).

     (2)  Invest more than 25% of the value of their respective assets in any
particular industry (other than U.S. Government securities); except the PPM
America/JNL Money Market Series.

     (3) Invest directly in real estate or interests in real estate; however,
the Series may own debt or equity securities issued by companies engaged in
those businesses.

     (4)  Purchase or sell physical commodities other than foreign currencies
unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities (but this limitation
shall not prevent the Series from purchasing or selling options, futures, swaps
and forward contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments
backed by physical commodities).

     (5)  Lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than
25% of a Series' total assets would be lent to other parties (but this
limitation does not apply to purchases of commercial paper, debt securities or
repurchase agreements).

                                       2


<PAGE>   165


     (6)  Act as an underwriter of securities issued by others, except to the
extent that a Series may be deemed an underwriter in connection with the
disposition of portfolio securities of such Series.

     (7)  Invest more than 15% of a Series' net assets (10% in the case of the
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series and the JNL/Alger Growth Series) in
securities that are restricted as to disposition under federal securities law,
or securities with other legal or contractual restrictions on resale.  This
limitation does not apply to securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule
144A of the Securities Act of 1933 or Commercial Paper issued in reliance upon
the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(2) of that Act, which
have been determined to be liquid in accordance with guidelines established by
the Board of Trustees.

     (8)  Purchase or retain the securities of any issuer if any of the
officers, trustees or directors of all Series or the investment adviser or
sub-adviser owns beneficially more than 1/2 of 1% of the securities of such
issuer and together they own more than 5% of the securities of such issuer.

     (9)  The Series will not issue senior securities except that they may
borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or
investment) in an amount not exceeding 25% of the value of their respective
total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than
borrowings).  If borrowings exceed 25% of the value of a Series' total assets
by reason of a decline in net assets, the Series will reduce its borrowings
within three business days to the extent necessary to comply with the 25%
limitation.  This policy shall not prohibit reverse repurchase agreements,
deposits of assets to margin or guarantee positions in futures, options, swaps
and forward contracts, or the segregation of assets in connection with such
contracts.

     The Trustees have adopted additional investment restrictions for the
Series.  These restrictions are operating policies of the Series and may be
changed by the Trustees without shareholder approval.  The additional
investment restrictions adopted by the Trustees to date include the following:

     (a)  Each Series' investments in warrants, valued at the lower of cost or
market, may not exceed 5% of the value of its net assets.  Included within that
amount, but not to exceed 2% of the value of a Series' net assets, may be
warrants that are not listed on the New York or American Stock Exchanges.
Warrants acquired by a Series  in units or attached to securities shall be
deemed to be without value for the purpose of monitoring this policy.

     (b)  The Series do not currently intend to sell securities short, unless
they own or have the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount
to the securities sold short without the payment of any additional
consideration therefor, and provided that transactions in futures, options,
swaps and forward contracts are not deemed to constitute selling securities
short.

     (c)  The Series do not currently intend to purchase securities on margin,
except that the Series may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for
the clearance of transactions, and 

                                      3


<PAGE>   166


provided that margin payments and other deposits in connection with
transactions in futures, options, swaps and forward contracts shall not be
deemed to constitute purchasing securities on margin.

     (d)  The Series do not currently intend to (i) purchase securities of
other investment companies, except in the open market where no commission
except the ordinary broker's commission is paid, or (ii) purchase or retain
securities issued by other open-end investment companies.  Limitations (i) and
(ii) do not apply to money market funds or to securities received as dividends,
through offers of exchange, or as a result of a reorganization, consolidation,
or merger.

     (e)  The Series do not currently intend to invest directly in oil, gas, or
other mineral development or exploration programs or leases; however, the
Series may own debt or equity securities of companies engaged in those
businesses.

     (f) The Series intend to comply with the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission  ("CFTC") regulations limiting a Series' investments in futures and
options for non-hedging purposes.

INSURANCE LAW RESTRICTIONS.  In connection with the Trust's agreement to sell
shares to the separate accounts, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.
("JNFSI") and the insurance companies may enter into agreements, required by
certain state insurance departments, under which JNFSI may agree to use its
best efforts to assure and to permit insurance companies to monitor that each
Series of the Trust complies with the investment restrictions and limitations
prescribed by state insurance laws and regulations applicable to the investment
of separate account assets in shares of mutual funds.  If a Series failed to
comply with such restrictions or limitations, the insurance company would take
appropriate action which might include ceasing to make investments in the
Series or withdrawing from the state imposing the limitation.  Such
restrictions and limitations are not expected to have a significant impact on
the Trust's operations.

                           COMMON TYPES OF SECURITIES

ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES.  The credit quality of most asset-backed securities
depends primarily on the credit quality of the assets underlying such
securities, how well the entity issuing the security is insulated from the
credit risk of the originator or any other affiliated entities, and the amount
and quality of any credit support provided to the securities.  The rate of
principal payment on asset-backed securities generally depends on the rate of
principal payments received on the underlying assets which in turn may be
affected by a variety of economic and other factors.  As a result, the yield on
any asset-backed security is difficult to predict with precision and actual
yield to maturity may be more or less than the anticipated yield to maturity.
Asset-backed securities may be classified as pass-through certificates or
collateralized obligations.


                                      4


<PAGE>   167



     Pass-through certificates are asset-backed securities which represent an
undivided fractional ownership interest in an underlying pool of assets.
Pass-through certificates usually provide for payments of principal and
interest received to be passed through to their holders, usually after
deduction for certain costs and expenses incurred in administering the pool.
Because pass-through certificates represent an ownership interest in the
underlying assets, the holders thereof bear directly the risk of any defaults
by the obligors on the underlying assets not covered by any credit support.

     Asset-backed securities issued in the form of debt instruments, also known
as collateralized obligations, are generally issued as the debt of a special
purpose entity organized solely for the purpose of owning such assets and
issuing such debt.  Such assets are most often trade, credit card
or automobile receivables.  The assets collateralizing such asset-backed
securities are pledged to a trustee or custodian for the benefit of the holders
hereof.  Such issuers generally hold no assets other than those underlying the
asset-backed securities and any credit support provided.  As a result, although
payments on such asset-backed securities are obligations of the issuers, in the
event of defaults on the underlying assets not covered by any credit support,
the issuing entities are unlikely to have sufficient assets to satisfy their
obligations on the related asset-backed securities.

BANK OBLIGATIONS.  Bank obligations include certificates of deposit, bankers'
acceptances, and other short-term debt obligations.  Certificates of deposit
are short-term obligations of commercial banks.  A bankers' acceptance is a
time draft drawn on a commercial bank by a borrower, usually in connection with
international commercial transactions.  Certificates of deposit may have fixed
or variable rates.  The Series may invest in U.S. banks, foreign branches of
U.S. banks, U.S. branches of foreign banks, and foreign branches of foreign
banks.

COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS).  CMOs are bonds that are
collateralized by whole loan mortgages or mortgage pass-through securities.
The bonds issued in a CMO transaction are divided into groups, and each group
of bonds is referred to as a "tranche." Under the traditional CMO structure,
the cash flows generated by the mortgages or mortgage pass-through securities
in the collateral pool are used to first pay interest and then pay principal to
the CMO bondholders.  The bonds issued under a CMO structure are retired
sequentially as opposed to the pro rata return of principal found in
traditional pass-through obligations.  Subject to the various provisions of
individual CMO issues, the cash flow generated by the underlying collateral (to
the extent it exceeds the amount required to pay the stated interest) is used
to retire the bonds.  Under the CMO structure, the repayment of principal among
the different tranches is prioritized in accordance with the terms of the
particular CMO issuance.  The "fastest-pay" tranche of bonds, as specified in
the prospectus for the issue, would initially receive all principal payments.
When that tranche of bonds is retired, the next tranche, or tranches, in the
sequence, as specified in the prospectus, receive all of the principal payments
until they are retired.  The sequential retirement of bonds groups continues
until the last tranche, or group of bonds, is retired.  Accordingly, the CMO
structure allows the issuer to use cash flows of long maturity, monthly-pay
collateral to formulate securities with short, intermediate and long final
maturities and expected average lives.


                                      5


<PAGE>   168


COMMERCIAL PAPER.  Commercial paper are short-term promissory notes issued by
corporations primarily to finance short-term credit needs.  Certain notes may
have floating or variable rates.

FOREIGN GOVERNMENT SECURITIES.  Foreign government securities are issued or
guaranteed by a foreign government, province, instrumentality, political
subdivision or similar unit thereof.

HIGH YIELD BONDS.  High Yield Bonds are fixed income securities offering high
current income that are in the lower rated categories of recognized rating
agencies or not rated.  These lower-rated fixed income securities are
considered, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity
to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligation and generally will involve more credit risk than securities in the
higher rated categories.

     High yield securities frequently are issued by corporations in the growth
stage of their development.  They may also be issued in connection with a
corporate reorganization or a corporate takeover.  Companies that issue such
high yielding securities often are highly leveraged and may not have available
to them more traditional methods of financing.  Therefore, the risk associated
with acquiring the securities of such issuers generally is greater than is the
case with higher rated securities.  For example, during an economic downturn or
recession, highly leveraged issuers of high yield securities may experience
financial stress.  During such periods, such issuers may not have sufficient
revenues to meet their interest payment obligations. The issuer's ability to
service its debt obligations may also be adversely affected by specific
corporate developments, or the issuer's inability to meet specific projected
business forecasts, or the unavailability of additional financing.  Adverse
publicity and investor perceptions regarding lower rated bonds, whether or not
based upon fundamental analysis, may also depress the price for such
securities.  The risk of loss from default by the issuer is significantly
greater for the holders of high yield securities because such securities are
generally unsecured and are often subordinated to other creditors of the
issuer.

HYBRID INSTRUMENTS.  Hybrid instruments have recently been developed and
combine the elements of futures contracts or options with those of debt,
preferred equity or a depository instrument.  Often these hybrid instruments
are indexed to the price of commodity, a particular currency, or a domestic or
foreign debt or equity securities index.  Hybrid instruments may take a variety
of forms, including, but not limited to, debt instruments with interest or
principal payments or redemption terms determined by reference to the value of
a currency or commodity or securities index at a future point in time,
preferred stock with dividend rates determined by reference to the value of a
currency, or convertible securities with the conversion terms related to a
particular commodity.

MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES.  Mortgage-backed securities are securities
representing an interest in a pool of mortgages.  The mortgages may be of a
variety of types, including adjustable rate, conventional 30-year fixed rate,
graduated payment, and 15-year.  Principal and interest payments made on the
mortgages in the underlying mortgage pool are passed through to the 


                                      6


<PAGE>   169


Series. This is in contrast to traditional bonds where principal is normally
paid back at maturity in a lump sum.  Unscheduled prepayments of principal
shorten the securities' weighted average life and may lower their total return. 
(When a mortgage in the underlying mortgage pool is prepaid, an unscheduled
principal prepayment is passed through to the Series.  This principal is
returned to the Series at par.  As a result, if a mortgage security were
trading at a discount, its total return would be increased by prepayments). 
The value of these securities also may change because of changes in the
market's perception of the creditworthiness of the federal agency that issued
them.  In addition, the mortgage securities market in general may be adversely
affected by changes in governmental regulation or tax policies.

MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS.  Municipal Obligations include debt obligations issued
to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a
wide range of public facilities such as bridges, highways, housing, hospitals,
mass transportation, schools, streets and water and sewer works.  Other public
purposes for which Municipal Obligations may be issued include refunding
outstanding obligations, obtaining funds for general operating expenses, and
obtaining funds to loan to other public institutions and facilities.  In
addition, certain types of industrial development bonds are issued by or on
behalf of public authorities to obtain funds to provide privately-operated
housing facilities, sports facilities, convention or trade show facilities,
airport, mass transit, port or parking facilities, air or water pollution
control facilities for water supply, gas, electricity or sewage or solid waste
disposal.  Such obligations are included with the term Municipal Obligations if
the interest paid thereon qualifies as exempt from federal income tax.

     Other types of industrial development bonds, the proceeds of which are
used for the construction, equipment, repair or improvement of privately
operated industrial or commercial facilities, may constitute Municipal
Obligations, although the current federal tax laws place substantial
limitations on the size of such issues.

REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS.  A Repurchase Agreement may be considered a loan
collateralized by securities.  The Series must take physical possession of the
security or receive written confirmation of the purchase and a custodial or
safekeeping receipt from a third party or be recorded as the owner of the
security through the Federal Reserve Book Entry System.  The Series may invest
in open repurchase agreements which vary from the typical agreement in the
following respects:  (1) the agreement has no set maturity, but instead matures
upon 24 hours' notice to the seller; and (2) the repurchase price is not
determined at the time the agreement is entered into, but is instead based on a
variable interest rate and the duration of the agreement.

SAVINGS AND LOAN OBLIGATIONS.  Savings and loan obligations include negotiable
certificates of deposit and other short-term debt obligations of savings and
loan associations.

SHORT-TERM CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES.  Short-term corporate debt securities are
outstanding non-convertible corporate debt securities (e.g., bonds and
debentures) which have one year or less remaining to maturity.  Corporate notes
may have fixed, variable, or floating rates.

                                      7


<PAGE>   170


STRIPPED AGENCY MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES.   Stripped  Agency Mortgage-Backed
Securities represent interests in a pool of mortgages,  the cash flow  of
which  has  been  separated into  its interest and principal components.  "IOs"
(interest only securities) receive the interest portion  of the  cash flow
while "POs"  (principal  only  securities)  receive  the  principal  portion.
Stripped Agency  Mortgage-Backed Securities may be issued by U.S. Government
agencies or by private issuers similar to those described with respect to  CMOs
and  privately-issued  mortgage-backed certificates.  As interest rates rise
and fall, the  value  of  IOs tends to move in the same direction as interest
rates.  The value of the other mortgage-backed  securities described herein,
like  other debt instruments, will tend to move in the opposite direction
compared to  interest rates.   Under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended  (the "Code"), POs may generate taxable income from the current accrual
of original issue discount, without  a  corresponding distribution of cash to
the Series.

     The cash flows and yields on IO and PO classes are extremely sensitive
to the rate of principal payments (including prepayments) on the related
underlying mortgage assets.  For example, a rapid or slow rate of principal
payments may have a material adverse effect on the prices of IOs or POs,
respectively.  If the underlying mortgage assets experience greater than
anticipated prepayments of principal, an investor may fail to recoup fully its
initial investment in an IO class of a stripped mortgage-backed security, even
if the IO class is rated AAA or Aaa or is derived from a full faith and credit
obligation.  Conversely, if the underlying mortgage assets experience slower
than anticipated prepayments of principal, the price on a PO class will be
affected more severely than would be the case with a traditional
mortgage-backed security.

SUPRANATIONAL AGENCY SECURITIES.  Supranational Agency Securities are
securities issued or guaranteed by certain supranational entities, such as the
International Development Bank.

U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY SECURITIES.  U.S. Government Agency Securities are
issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government sponsored enterprises and federal
agencies.  These include securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage
Association, Government National Mortgage Association, Federal Home Loan Bank,
Federal Land Banks, Farmers Home Administration, Banks for Cooperatives,
Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, Federal Financing Bank, Farm Credit Banks,
the Small Business Association, Student Loan Marketing Association, and the
Tennessee Valley Authority.  Some of these securities are supported by the
full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury; the remainder are supported only by
the credit of the instrumentality, which may or may not include the right of
the issuer to borrow from the Treasury.

U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS.  U.S. Government Obligations include bills, notes,
bonds, and other debt securities issued by the U.S. Treasury.  These are direct
obligations of the U.S. Government and differ mainly in the length of their
maturities.

VARIABLE RATE SECURITIES.  Variable Rate Securities provide for a periodic
adjustment in the interest rate paid on the obligations.  The terms of such
obligations must provide that interest rates are adjusted periodically based
upon some appropriate interest rate adjustment index as provided in the
respective obligations.  The adjustment intervals may be regular and range from


                                     8


<PAGE>   171


daily up to annually, or may be event based, such as on a change in the prime
rate.  Variable Rate Securities that cannot be disposed of promptly within
seven days and in the usual course of business without taking a reduced price
will be treated as illiquid and subject to the limitation on investments in
illiquid securities.

WARRANTS.  The Series may invest in warrants.  Warrants have no voting rights,
pay no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the
corporation issuing them.  Warrants basically are options to purchase equity
securities at a specific price valid for a specific period of time.  They do
not represent ownership of the securities, but only the right to buy them.
Warrants differ from call options in that warrants are issued by the issuer of
the security which may be purchased on their exercise, whereas call options may
be written or issued by anyone. The prices of warrants do not necessarily move
parallel to the prices of the underlying securities.

WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES AND FORWARD COMMITMENT CONTRACTS.  The Series may        
purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis ("When-Issueds")
and may purchase securities on a forward commitment basis ("Forwards").  Any or
all of the Series' investments in debt securities may be in the form of
When-Issueds and Forwards.  The price of such securities, which may be
expressed in yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is
made, but delivery and payment take place at a later date.  Normally, the
settlement date occurs within 90 days of the purchase for When-Issueds, but may
be substantially longer for Forwards. During the period between purchase and
settlement, no payment is made by the Series to the issuer and no interest
accrues to the Series.  The purchase of these securities will result in a loss
if their value declines prior to the settlement date.  This could occur, for
example, if interest rates increase prior to settlement.  The longer the period
between purchase and settlement, the greater the risks.  At the time the Series
makes the commitment to purchase these securities, it will record the
transaction and reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset
value. The Series will segregate for these securities by maintaining cash
and/or liquid debt securities with its custodian bank equal in value to
commitments for them during the time between the purchase and the settlement.
Therefore, the longer this period, the longer the period during which
alternative investment options are not available to the Series (to the extent
of the securities used for cover).  Such securities either will mature or, if
necessary, be sold on or before the settlement date.

ZERO COUPON BONDS.  A Series may invest up to 10% of its assets in zero coupon
bonds or strips.  Zero coupon bonds do not make regular interest payments;
rather, they are sold at a discount from face value.  Principal and accreted
discount (representing interest accrued but not paid) are paid at maturity.
Strips are debt securities that are stripped of their interest after the
securities are issued, but otherwise are comparable to zero coupon bonds.  The
market value of strips and zero coupon bonds generally fluctuates in response
to changes in interest rates to a greater degree than interest-paying
securities of comparable term and quality.


                                      9



<PAGE>   172


                       TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST

     The officers of the Trust manage its day to day operations and are
responsible to the Trust's Board of Trustees.  The trustees set broad policies
for each Series and choose the Trust's officers.  The following is a list of
the trustees and officers of the Trust and a statement of their present
positions and principal occupations during the past five years.  The mailing
address of the officers and trustees, unless otherwise noted, is 5901 Executive
Drive, Lansing, Michigan 48911.

JOHN A. KNUTSON* (Age 57), Trustee, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief
Executive Officer, June 1994 to present; President, August 1993 to present,
Chief Financial Officer, February 1992 to present, Director, November 1991 to
present, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.; President, June 1993 to
February 1994, Senior Vice President, September 1987 to June 1993 and February
1994 to present, Chief Financial Officer, September 1987 to June 1994, Chief
Operating Officer, September 1992 to present, Jackson National Life Insurance
Company.

JOSEPH FRAUENHEIM (Age 62), 1405 Cambridge, Lansing, MI  48911, Trustee,
December 1994 to present; Consultant, 1991 to present; President & CEO,
Manufacturers Bank of Lansing.

ANDREW B. HOPPING* (Age 38), Trustee, Vice President, Treasurer & Chief
Financial Officer, August 1996 to present; Senior Vice President, June 1994 to
present, Jackson National Life Insurance Company; Executive Vice President,
1991 to June 1994, Countrywide Credit.

THOMAS J. MEYER (Age 50), Vice President, Counsel and Secretary, December 1994
to present; Secretary and Chief Legal Officer, November 1991 to present,
Director, June 1995 to present, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.;
Secretary, September 1994 to present, Vice President, and General Counsel,
March 1985 to present, Jackson National Life Insurance Company.

LARRY C. JORDAN (Age 53), Vice President, December 1994 to present, Assistant
Secretary, February 1996 to present, Assistant Treasurer, December 1994 to
February 1996; Treasurer and Assistant Secretary, November 1991 to present,
Chief Operating Officer, September 1992 to present, Director June 1993 to
present, Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.; Treasurer, October 1980 to
September 1994, Vice President, October 1980 to present, Jackson National Life
Insurance Company.

RICHARD MCLELLAN (Age 54), 1191 Carriageway North, East Lansing, MI  48823,
Trustee, December 1994 to present; Attorney, Dykema Gossett PLLC.

PETER MCPHERSON (Age 56), 1 Abbott Road, East Lansing, MI  48824, Trustee,
December 1994 to present; President, October 1993 to present, Michigan State
University; Group Executive Vice President, November 1990 to October 1993, Bank
of America.

                                     10


<PAGE>   173


ROBERT A. FRITTS (Age 48), Vice President, December 1994 to present, Assistant
Treasurer, February 1996 to present, Assistant Secretary, December 1994 to
February 1996; Assistant Treasurer, Vice President, Jackson National Life
Insurance Company.


*Trustees who are interested persons as defined in the Investment Company Act
of 1940.

     On April 7, 1997, the officers and trustees of the Trust, as a group,
owned less than 1% of the then outstanding shares of the Trust.  As of that
date, Jackson National Life Insurance Company, a Michigan corporation, through
its initial investment of capital into each Series, owned 5.2% of the
outstanding shares of the Trust.  To the extent required by applicable law,
Jackson National Life Insurance Company will solicit voting instructions from
owners of variable insurance or variable annuity contracts.  All shares of each
Series of the Trust will be voted by Jackson National Life Insurance Company in
accordance with voting instructions received from such variable contract
owners.  Jackson National Life Insurance Company will vote all of the shares
which it is entitled to vote in the same proportion as the voting instructions
given by variable contract owners, on the issues presented, including shares
which are attributable to Jackson National Life Insurance Company's interest in
the Trust.

     The trustees who are "interested persons" and officers as designated above
receive no compensation from the Trust.  Disinterested Trustees will be paid
$2,500 for each meeting they attend.  For the  year  ended December 31, 1996,
the Disinterested Trustees received the following fees for service as Trustee:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       PENSION OR                                   
                               AGGREGATE          RETIREMENT BENEFITS     TOTAL COMPENSATION     
                           COMPENSATION FROM        ACCRUED AS PART OF    FROM TRUST AND FUND    
     TRUSTEE                     TRUST               TRUST EXPENSES            COMPLEX                
                                                                                                  
<S>                            <C>                   <C>                       <C>
Joseph Frauenheim               $10,000                     0                  $10,000
Richard McLellan                 10,000                     0                   10,000
Peter McPherson                   7,500                     0                    7,500
</TABLE>

                                  PERFORMANCE

     As described in the Prospectus, a Series' historical performance may be
shown in the form of total return and yield.  These performance measures are
described below. Performance advertised for a Series may or may not reflect the
effect of any charges that are imposed under a variable annuity or variable
life contract that is funded by the Trust.  Such charges, described in the
variable annuity or variable life prospectus, will have the effect of reducing
a Series' performance.


                                      11


<PAGE>   174
     Standardized average annual total return and non-standardized total return
measure both the net investment income generated by, and the effect of any
realized and unrealized appreciation or depreciation of, the underlying
investments of a Series.  Yield is a measure of the net investment income per
share earned over a specific one month or 30-day period (seven-day period for
the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series) expressed as a percentage of the net
asset value.

     A Series' standardized average annual total return quotation is computed
in accordance with a standardized method prescribed by rules of the Securities
and Exchange Commission. The standardized average annual total return for a
Series for a specific period is found by first taking a hypothetical $1,000
investment ("initial investment") in the Series' shares on the first day of the
period, adjusting to deduct the applicable charges, if any, and computing the
"redeemable value" of that investment at the end of the period.  The redeemable
value is then divided by the initial investment, and this quotient is taken to
the Nth root (N representing the number of years in the period) and 1 is
subtracted from the result, which is then expressed as a percentage.  The
calculation assumes that all income and capital gains dividends paid by the
Series have been reinvested at net asset value on the reinvestment dates during
the period.

     The standardized total return for each Series (except the PPM America/JNL
Money Market Series)for the periods indicated  was as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                                                                               
                                                                             Commencement 
                                                                             of Operations     
                                             One Year Period Ended                to           
                                               December 31, 1996           December 31, 1996   
<S>                                             <C>                         <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series*                     18.95%                        26.88%            
JNL Capital Growth Series*                        16.83%                        31.24%            
JNL Global Equities Series*                       31.36%                        38.22%            
JNL/Alger Growth Series**                         13.41%                         9.46%            
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series***                    N/A%                        6.47%****          
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series***                N/A%                       15.40%****          
JNL/Putnam Growth Series*                         26.81%                        34.04%            
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series*                   24.33%                        29.41%            
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series*                  10.81%                        16.25%            
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series*           12.90%                        11.76%            
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series*          14.39%                        13.25%            
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government and                                                          
Quality Bond Series*                              2.58%                          5.82%            
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series*      22.59%                        27.56%            
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity                                                            
Investment Series*                                13.91%                        12.99%            
</TABLE>

                                      12


<PAGE>   175


T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series*          23.47%         33.06%

     *  Commenced operations on May 15, 1995.
     **Commenced operations on October 16, 1995.
     ***Commenced operations on September 16, 1996.
     ****Not annualized.

Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Balanced Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix Investment
Counsel Inc., the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was the JNL/Phoenix Investment
Counsel Growth Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc.,
and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series was the PPM America/JNL Value Equity
Series and was sub-advised by PPM America, Inc.

     The standardized average annual total return quotations will be current to
the last day of the calendar quarter preceding the date on which an
advertisement is submitted for publication. The standardized average annual
total return will be based on rolling calendar quarters and will cover at least
periods of one, five and ten years, or a period covering the time the Series
has been in existence, if it has not been in existence for one of the
prescribed periods.

     Non-standardized total return may also be advertised.  Non-standardized
total return may be for periods other than those required to be presented or
may otherwise differ from standardized average annual total return.
Non-standardized  total return for a specific period is calculated by first
taking an investment ("initial investment") in the Series' shares on the first
day of the period and computing the "end value" of that investment at the end
of the period. The total return percentage is then determined by subtracting
the initial investment from the ending value and dividing the remainder by the
initial investment and expressing the result as a percentage.  The calculation
assumes that all income and capital gains dividends paid by the Series have
been reinvested at net asset value on the reinvestment dates during the period.
Non-standardized total return may also be shown as the increased dollar value
of the hypothetical investment over the period.

     Quotations of standardized average annual total return and
non-standardized total return are based upon historical earnings and will
fluctuate.  Any quotation of performance, therefore, should not be considered a
guarantee of future performance.  Factors affecting the performance of a Series
include general market conditions, operating expenses and investment
management.

     The yield for a Series other than the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series
is computed in accordance with a standardized method prescribed by the rules of
the SEC.  Under that method, yield is computed by dividing the net investment
income per share earned during the specified one month or 30-day period by the
offering price per share on the last day of the period, according to the
following formula:


                                      13



<PAGE>   176

                                          
                           YIELD= 2 [(a-b)  )6
                                     -----+1-1
                                    [(cd    )


Where:
     a = dividends and interest earned during the period.
     b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
     c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the
         period that were entitled to receive dividends
     d = the offering price (net asset value) per share on the last day of the
         period.

     The yield for the 30-day period ended December 31, 1996, for each of the
referenced Series was as follows:

     PPM America/JNL Balanced Series                             1.90% 
     PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series                      8.95%
     Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government and Quality            6.06%
     Bond Series


Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Balanced Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix Investment
Counsel, Inc.

     In computing the foregoing yield, the Series follow certain standardized
accounting practices specified by SEC rules.  These practices are not
necessarily consistent with those that the Series use to prepare annual and
interim financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

     The PPM America/JNL Money Market Series' yield is also computed in
accordance with a standardized method prescribed by rules of the SEC.  Under
that method, the current yield quotation is based on a seven-day period and is
computed as follows.  The first calculation is net investment income per share;
which is accrued interest on portfolio securities, plus or minus amortized
discount or premium, less accrued expenses.  This number is then divided by the
price per share (expected to remain constant at $1.00) at the beginning of the
period ("base period return").  The result is then divided by 7 and multiplied
by 365 and the resulting yield figure is carried to the nearest one-hundredth of
one percent. Realized capital gains or losses and unrealized appreciation or
depreciation of investments are not included in the calculation.  The PPM
America/JNL Money Market Series' yield for the seven-day period ended December
31, 1996 was 4.77%. 

     The PPM America/JNL Money Market Series' effective yield is determined by
taking the base period return (computed as described above) and calculating the
effect of assumed compounding.  The formula for the effective yield is:  (base
period return + 1)(365/7) - 1.  The 

                                      14


<PAGE>   177



PPM America/JNL Money Market Series'effective yield for the seven-day period
ended December 31, 1996 was 4.89%. 
     A Series' performance quotations are based upon historical results and are
not necessarily representative of future performance.  The Series' shares are
sold at net asset value.  Returns and net asset value will fluctuate, except
that the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series seeks to maintain a $1.00 net
asset value per share.  Factors affecting a Series' performance include general
market conditions, operating expenses and investment management.  Shares of a
Series are redeemable at the then current net asset value, which may be more or
less than original cost.

     The performance of the Series may be compared to various other selected
recognized market indicators.  There are differences and similarities between
the investments which a Series may purchase and the investments measured by the
market indicators.  Each Series may compare its performance to one or more of
the Consumer Price Index, the Standard & Poor's 500 Index, the Standard &
Poor's MidCap 400 Index, the Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index,
the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, the Lehman Brothers High Yield Index,
the Salomon Brothers Broad Investment Grade Index, the Salomon Brothers
Treasury Index, the Russell 2000 Index, or the Morgan Stanley Europe and
Australasia, Far East Equity Index  The foregoing bond indexes are unmanaged.
The market prices and yields of corporate and government bonds will fluctuate.
Lipper and CDA are widely recognized independent mutual fund reporting
services.  Lipper and CDA indexes are weighted performance averages of other
mutual funds with similar investment objectives.  The net asset values and
returns of the Series will also fluctuate.  No adjustments are made for taxes
payable on dividends.

     A Series may periodically advertise tax-deferred compounding charts and
other hypothetical illustrations.

                     INVESTMENT ADVISER AND OTHER SERVICES

     JNFSI, 5901 Executive Drive, Lansing, Michigan  48911, is the investment
adviser of each Series and provides each Series with professional investment
supervision and management. JNFSI is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jackson
National Life Insurance Company, which is in turn wholly-owned by Prudential
Corporation plc, the largest life insurance company in the United Kingdom.
JNFSI provides, preparation of financial statements, tax services and
regulatory reports.

     Pursuant to an Amended Investment Advisory and Management Agreement, JNFSI
acts as the Trust's investment adviser, administers its business affairs,
furnishes office facilities and equipment, provides clerical, bookkeeping and
administrative services, and permits any of its officers or employees to serve
without compensation as trustees or officers of the Trust if elected to such
positions.  The Amended Investment Advisory and Management Agreement continues
in effect for each Series from year to year after its initial two-year term so
long as its continuation is approved at least annually by (i) a majority of the
Trustees who are not parties to such agreement or interested persons of any
such party except in their capacity as Trustees of the 

                                      15


<PAGE>   178


Trust, and (ii) the shareholders of each Series or the Board of Trustees. 
It may be terminated at any time upon 60 days notice by either party, or by a
majority vote of the outstanding shares of a Series with respect to that Series,
and will terminate automatically upon assignment.  Additional Series may be
subject to a different agreement.  The Amended Investment Advisory and
Management Agreement provides that JNFSI shall not be liable for any error of
judgment, or for any loss suffered by the Series in connection with the matters
to which the agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful
misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of JNFSI in the
performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless
disregard of its obligations and duties under the agreement.  As compensation
for its services, the Trust pays JNFSI a fee as described in the Prospectus. 
The fees paid by the Trust to JNFSI pursuant to the Amended Investment Advisory
and Management Agreement from the commencement of operations to March 31, 1996
were $701,004 and from April 1, 1996 to December 31, 1996 were $1,884,328. 

     In addition to providing the services described above JNFSI selects,
contracts with and compensates sub-advisers to manage the investment and
reinvestment of the assets of the Series of the Trust.  JNFSI monitors the
compliance of such sub-advisers with the investment objectives and related
policies of each Series and reviews the performance of such sub-advisers and
reports periodically on such performance to the Trustees of the Trust.

     Janus Capital Corporation ("Janus Capital") serves as sub-adviser for the
JNL Capital Growth, JNL Aggressive Growth and JNL Global Equities Series; Fred
Alger Management, Inc. ("Alger Management") serves as sub-adviser for the
JNL/Alger Growth Series; Eagle Asset Management, Inc. ("Eagle") serves as
sub-adviser to the JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series and the JNL/Eagle SmallCap
Equity Series; PPM America, Inc. ("PPM") serves as sub-adviser for the PPM
America/JNL Balanced, PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond, and PPM America/JNL
Money Market Series; Putnam Investment Management, Inc. serves as sub-adviser
to the JNL/Putnam Growth and JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series; Salomon Brothers
Asset Management Inc ("SBAM") serves as sub-adviser for the Salomon
Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond and Salomon Brothers/JNL Global
Bond Series; T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("T. Rowe") serves as sub-adviser
for the T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap
Growth Series; and Rowe Price-Fleming International, Inc. ("Price-Fleming")
serves as sub-adviser for the T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment
Series.  Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix
Investment Counsel Inc., the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was the JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Growth Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix Investment
Counsel, Inc., and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series was the PPM America/JNL
Value Equity Series and was sub-advised by PPM.

     Subject to the supervision of JNFSI and the Trustees pursuant to
investment sub-advisory agreements entered into between JNFSI and each of the
sub-advisers, respectively, the sub-advisers invest and reinvest the Series'
assets consistent with the Series' respective investment objectives and
policies.  The investment sub-advisory agreement continues in effect for each
Series from year to year after its initial two-year term so long as its
continuation is approved at least annually by a majority of the Trustees who
are not parties to such agreement or interested 

                                      16


<PAGE>   179


persons of any such party except in their capacity as Trustees of the
Series and by the shareholders of each Series or the Board of Trustees.  It may
be terminated at any time upon 60 days notice by either party, or by a majority
vote of the outstanding shares of a Series with respect to that Series, and will
terminate automatically upon assignment or upon the termination of the
investment management agreement between JNFSI and the Series.  Additional Series
may be subject to a different agreement.  The sub-advisers are responsible for
compliance with or have agreed to use their best efforts to manage the Series to
comply with the provisions of Section 817(h) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended, applicable to each Series (relating to the diversification
requirements applicable to investments in underlying variable annuity
contracts).

     The Trust pays the compensation of the Trustees who are not affiliated
with JNFSI and all expenses (other than those assumed by JNFSI), including
governmental fees, interest charges, taxes, membership dues in certain industry
associations allocable to the Trust, fees and expenses of independent certified
public accountants, legal counsel, and any transfer agent, registrar, and
dividend disbursing agent of the Trust, expenses of preparing, printing, and
mailing shareholders' reports, notices, proxy statements, and reports to
governmental offices and commissions, expenses connected with the execution,
recording, and settlement of portfolio security transactions, insurance
premiums, fees and expenses of the custodian for all services to the Trust and
expenses of calculating the net asset value of shares of the Trust, and
expenses relating to the issuance, registration, and qualification of shares of
the Trust.

CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT

     State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"), 1776 Heritage Drive,
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171, acts as custodian for each Series of the
Trust.  The custodian has custody of all securities and cash of the Trust
maintained in the United States and attends to the collection of principal and
income and payment for and collection of proceeds of securities bought and sold
by the Trust.

     State Street is the transfer agent and dividend-paying agent for each
Series of the Trust.

INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

     The Series' independent accountants, Price Waterhouse LLP, 100 East
Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin  53202, audit and report on the Series'
annual financial statements, prepare the Series' federal income and excise tax
returns, and perform other professional accounting, auditing and advisory
services when engaged to do so by the Series.

SERIES TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE

        The primary consideration in portfolio security trans execution," i.e.,
execution at the most favorable prices a effective manner possible.  JNFSI and
the sub-advisers always achieve best execution and have complete freedom as to
the 


                                      17

<PAGE>   180



markets in and the broker/dealers through which they seek this result. 
Subject to the requirement of seeking best execution, securities may be bought
from or sold to broker/dealers who have furnished statistical, research, and
other information or services to JNFSI or the sub-advisers.  In placing orders
with such broker/dealers, JNFSI and the sub-advisers will, where possible, take
into account the comparative usefulness of such information.  Such information
is useful to JNFSI and the sub-advisers even though its dollar value may be
indeterminable and its receipt or availability generally does not reduce JNFSI's
or the sub-advisers' normal research activities or expenses.

     Trust portfolio transactions may be effected with broker/dealers who have
assisted investors in the purchase of policies.  However, neither such
assistance nor sale of other investment company shares is a qualifying or
disqualifying factor in a broker/dealer's selection, nor is the selection of
any broker/dealer based on the volume of shares sold.

     There may be occasions when portfolio transactions for the Trust are
executed as part of concurrent authorizations to purchase or sell the same
security for trusts or other accounts served by affiliated companies of JNFSI
or the sub-advisers.  Although such concurrent authorizations potentially could
be either advantageous or disadvantageous to the Trust, they are effected only
when JNFSI and the sub-advisers believe that to do so is in the interest of the
Trust.  When such concurrent authorizations occur the executions will be
allocated in an equitable manner.

     During the periods indicated, the Series paid the following amounts in
brokerage commissions:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                 April 1, 1996 to     Commencement of
                                                                 December 31, 1996*   Operations to  
                                                                                      March 31, 1996
<S>                                                         <C>                   <C>

JNL Aggressive Growth Series**                                     $16,981             $19,654
JNL Capital Growth Series**                                        34,515               16,905
JNL Global Equities Series**                                       47,800               72,359
JNL/Alger Growth Series***                                         22,155                9,414
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series****                                   1,785                  N/A
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series****                               4,389                  N/A
JNL/Putnam Growth Series**                                         33,185                8,008
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series**                                   3,587                 2,888
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series**                                  17,054                5,077
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series**                            500                    0
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series**                                0                     0
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series**                            0                   1,399
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government and Quality Bond   
Series**                                                             0                     0    
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series**                      5,706                20,293     
 
</TABLE>

                                      18





<PAGE>   181

                                                        
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                                                <C>                   <C>
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series**         17,105                63,341
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series**                          19,868                25,663
</TABLE>

*The JNL Series Trust changed its fiscal year end from March 31 to December 31.
**Commenced operations on May 15, 1995.
***Commenced operations on October 16, 1995.
****Commenced operations on September 16, 1996.

Prior to May 1, 1997, the PPM America/JNL Balanced Series was the JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Balanced Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix Investment
Counsel Inc., the JNL/Putnam Growth Series was the JNL/Phoenix Investment
Counsel Growth Series and was sub-advised by Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc.,
and the JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series was the PPM America/JNL Value Equity
Series and was sub-advised by PPM.

     As of December 31, 1996, the following Series owned  securities of, one of
the Trust's regular broker/dealers:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        Amount of Securities
            Series                   Broker/Dealer      Owned
- -------------------------------  ---------------------  ------------------------
<S>                              <C>                    <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series     Chase Manhattan Corp.      $301,219
JNL/Alger Growth Series          Chase Manhattan Corp.      $803,250
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series     Chase Manhattan Corp.      $ 35,700
JNL/Putnam Growth Series         Chase Manhattan Corp.      $321,300
JNL/Putnam Value Equity Series   Chase Manhattan Corp.      $339,150
PPM America/JNL Balanced Series  Chase Manhattan Corp.      $116,025
</TABLE>


                  PURCHASES, REDEMPTIONS AND PRICING OF SHARES

     An insurance company or certain tax qualified retirement plans may
purchase shares of the Series at their net asset value.  For an insurance
company, shares are purchased using premiums received on policies issued by
separate accounts.  These separate accounts are funded by shares of the Trust.


                                       19

<PAGE>   182

     All investments in the Trust are credited to the shareholder's account in
the form of full and fractional shares of the designated Series (rounded to the
nearest 1/1000 of a share).  The Trust does not issue share certificates.

     As stated in the Prospectus, the net asset value ("NAV") of Series shares
is determined once each day on which the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE")
is open ("Business Day") at the close of the regular trading session of the
Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday).  The NAV of
Series shares is not determined on the days the NYSE is closed, which days
generally are New Year's Day, President's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day,
Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.  The per share NAV of
a Series is determined by dividing the total value of the securities and other
assets, less liabilities, by the total number of shares outstanding.  In
determining NAV, securities listed on the national securities exchanges, the
NASDAQ National Market and foreign markets are valued at the closing prices on
such markets, or if such price is lacking for the trading period immediately
preceding the time of determination, such securities are valued at their
current bid price. Securities that are traded on the over-the-counter market
are valued at their closing bid prices. Foreign securities and currencies are
converted to U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at the time of
valuation.  A Series will determine the market value of individual securities
held by it, by using prices provided by one or more professional pricing
services which may provide market prices to other funds, or, as needed, by
obtaining market quotations from independent broker-dealers.  Short-term money
market securities maturing within 60 days are valued on the amortized cost
basis.  Securities for which quotations are not readily available, and other
assets, are valued at fair values determined in good faith under procedures
established by and under the supervision of the Trustees.

     Trading in securities on European and Far Eastern securities exchanges and
over-the-counter markets is normally completed well before the close of
business on each Business Day. In addition, European and Far Eastern securities
trading generally or in a particular country or countries may not take place on
all Business Days.  Furthermore, trading takes place in Japanese markets on
certain Saturdays and in various foreign markets on days which are not Business
Days and on which a Series' net asset value is not calculated.  A Series
calculates net asset value per share, and therefore effects sales, redemptions
and repurchases of its shares, as of the close of the NYSE once on each day on
which the NYSE is open.  Such calculation does not take place contemporaneously
with the determination of the prices of the majority of the foreign portfolio
securities used in such calculation.

     For the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series, securities are valued at
amortized cost, which approximates market value, in accordance with Rule 2a-7
under the Investment Company Act of 1940.  The net income of the PPM
America/JNL Money Market Series is determined once each day, on which the NYSE
is open, at the close of the regular trading session of the NYSE (normally 4:00
p.m., Eastern time, Monday through Friday).  All the net income of the Series,
so determined, is declared in shares as a dividend to shareholders of record at
the time of such determination.  Shares purchased become entitled to dividends
declared as of the first day following the date of investment.  Dividends are
distributed in the form of additional shares of 

                                      20


<PAGE>   183


the Series on the last business day of each month at the rate of one share (and
fraction thereof) of the Series for each one dollar (and fraction thereof) of
dividend income.

     For this purpose, the net income of the PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series (from the time of the immediately preceding determination thereof) shall
consist of:  (a) all interest income accrued on the portfolio assets of the
Series, (b) less all actual and accrued expenses, and (c) plus or minus net
realized gains and losses on the assets of the Series determined in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles.  Interest income shall include
discount earned (including both original issue and market discount) on discount
paper accrued ratably to the date of maturity.  Securities are valued at market
or amortized cost which approximates market, which the Trustees have determined
in good faith constitutes fair value for the purposes of complying with the
Investment Company Act of 1940.

     Because the net income of the PPM America/JNL Money Market Series is
declared as a dividend each time the net income is determined, the net asset
value per share (i.e., the value of the net assets of the Series divided by the
number of shares outstanding) remains at one dollar per share immediately after
each such determination and dividend declaration.  Any increase in the value of
a shareholder's investment in the Series, representing the reinvestment of
dividend income, is reflected by an increase in the number of shares of the
Series in its account.  Pursuant to its objective of maintaining a fixed one
dollar share price, the Series will not purchase securities with a remaining
maturity of more than 397 days and will maintain a dollar weighted average
portfolio maturity of 90 days or less.

     The Trust may suspend the right of redemption for any Series only under
the following unusual circumstances:  (a) when the New York Stock Exchange is
closed (other than weekends and holidays) or trading is restricted; (b) when an
emergency exists, making disposal of portfolio
securities or the valuation of net assets not reasonably practicable; or (c)
during any period when the Securities and Exchange Commission has by order
permitted a suspension of redemption for the protection of shareholders.

                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

     DESCRIPTION OF SHARES - The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to
issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest
of each Series and to divide or combine such shares into a greater or lesser
number of shares without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial
interests in the Trust.  Each share of a Series represents an equal
proportionate interest in that Series with each other share.  The Trust
reserves the right to create and issue a number of Series of shares.  In that
case, the shares of each Series would participate equally in the earnings,
dividends, and assets of the particular Series.  Upon liquidation of a Series,
shareholders are entitled to share pro rata in the net assets of such Series
available for distribution to shareholders.

     VOTING RIGHTS - Shareholders are entitled to one vote for each share held.
Shareholders may vote in the election of Trustees and on other matters
submitted to meetings of shareholders. 

                                      21


<PAGE>   184


No amendment may be made to the Declaration of Trust without the affirmative
vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Trust.  The Trustees may,
however, amend the Declaration of Trust without the vote or consent of
shareholders to:



     - designate Series of the Trust; or

     - change the name of the Trust; or

     - supply any omission, cure, correct, or supplement any ambiguous,
       defective, or inconsistent provision to conform the Declaration of 
       Trust to the requirements of applicable federal or state regulations 
       if they deem it necessary.

     Shares have no pre-emptive or conversion rights.  Shares are fully paid
and non-assessable, except as set forth in the prospectus.  In regard to
termination, sale of assets, or change of investment restrictions, the right to
vote is limited to the holders of shares of the particular Series affected by
the proposal.  When a majority is required, it means the lesser of 67% or more
of the shares present at a meeting when the holders of more than 50% of the
outstanding shares are present or represented by proxy, or more than 50% of the
outstanding shares.

     SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES - All inquiries regarding the Trust should be
directed to the Trust at the telephone number or address shown on the cover
page of the Prospectus.

                                   TAX STATUS

     The Trust's policy is to meet the requirements of Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code.  Each Series intends to distribute taxable net
investment income and capital gains to shareholders in amounts that will avoid
federal income or excise tax. In addition, each Series intends to comply with
the diversification requirements of Code Section 817(h) related to the
tax-deferred status of insurance company separate accounts.

     All income, dividends, and capital gains distributions, if any, on Series
shares are reinvested automatically in additional shares of the Series at the
NAV determined on the first Business Day following the record date, unless
otherwise requested by a shareholder.

     Each Series of the Trust is treated as a separate entity for purpose of
the regulated investment company provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and,
therefore, the assets, income, and distributions of each Series are considered
separately for purposes of determining whether or not the Series qualifies as a
regulated investment company.

                                      22



<PAGE>   185






                                JNL SERIES TRUST



                              FINANCIAL STATEMENTS






                                       23



<PAGE>   186
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
To the Shareholders and Board of Trustees of
JNL Series Trust
 
     In our opinion, the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities,
including the schedules of investments, and the related statements of operations
and of changes in net assets and the financial highlights present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of the JNL Aggressive Growth Series,
JNL Capital Growth Series, JNL Global Equities Series, JNL/Alger Growth Series,
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series, JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series, JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Balanced Series, JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth
Series, PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series, PPM America/JNL Money Market
Series, PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series, Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond
Series, Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series, T. Rowe
Price/JNL Established Growth Series, T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity
Investment Series and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series (constituting JNL
Series Trust, hereafter referred to as the "Trust") at December 31, 1996, and
the results of each of their operations, changes in each of their net assets and
the financial highlights for the periods indicated, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles. These financial statements and financial
highlights (hereafter referred to as "financial statements") are the
responsibility of the Trust's management; our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
auditing standards which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audits, which included confirmation of securities at December 31, 1996 by
correspondence with the custodians and brokers and the application of
alternative auditing procedures where confirmations from brokers were not
received, provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.
 
PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
February 14, 1997
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   187
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                      STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                      JNL/PHOENIX
                                        JNL                                                 JNL/EAGLE    JNL/EAGLE    INVESTMENT
                                    AGGRESSIVE    JNL CAPITAL   JNL GLOBAL     JNL/ALGER       CORE       SMALLCAP      COUNSEL
                                      GROWTH        GROWTH       EQUITIES       GROWTH        EQUITY       EQUITY      BALANCED
                                      SERIES        SERIES        SERIES        SERIES        SERIES       SERIES       SERIES
                                    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
<S>                                 <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>
ASSETS
Investments in securities, at
  cost............................  $28,034,841   $34,996,580   $42,282,196   $34,475,613   $1,716,644   $1,603,053   $23,665,613
                                    ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ==========   ==========   ===========
Investments in securities, at
  value...........................  $29,870,628   $37,622,915   $48,919,581   $38,140,297   $1,796,373   $1,816,762   $24,279,702
Cash..............................       52,939        85,390        29,133            --      200,612      288,068            --
Foreign currency..................           --       167,261       103,663            --           --           --            --
Receivables:
  Dividends and interest..........        5,869           964        37,956        30,860        2,342          455        94,610
  Forward foreign currency
    exchange contracts............    1,310,318     1,577,985     7,119,501            --           --           --            --
  Foreign taxes recoverable.......        1,100         2,522        15,309            --           --           --            --
  Fund shares sold................      277,666       273,586       300,349       167,463           --           --       104,931
  Investment securities sold......       76,634       983,969       272,901       424,266        1,042           --            --
  Reimbursements from Advisor.....           --            --        29,212            --        4,995        4,381            --
Prepaid expenses..................           --            --            --            --           --           --            --
                                    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
TOTAL ASSETS......................   31,595,154    40,714,592    56,827,605    38,762,886    2,005,364    2,109,666    24,479,243
                                    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
LIABILITIES
Payables:
  Advisor.........................       30,608        33,921        41,135        42,247        1,401        1,374        20,342
  Custodian foreign currency
    overdraft.....................       16,829            --            --            --           --           --            --
  Custodian overdraft.............           --            --            --            --           --           --         3,563
  Forward foreign currency
    exchange contracts............    1,314,817     1,655,680     6,981,532            --           --           --            --
  Dividends to shareholders.......      117,769        16,204       603,988            --        2,707           --        13,449
  Fund shares redeemed............      357,911         3,665       360,582         2,127           34           30         1,099
  Investment securities
    purchased.....................      181,141     2,041,254       159,458       449,595       35,152      154,312         3,630
Options written, at value
  (premiums received $1,043)......           --            --            --            --        1,500           --            --
Accrued expenses and other
  liabilities.....................       21,434        17,717        42,436        16,826       10,373        9,861        18,583
                                    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
TOTAL LIABILITIES.................    2,040,509     3,768,441     8,189,131       510,795       51,167      165,577        60,666
                                    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
NET ASSETS........................  $29,554,645   $36,946,151   $48,638,474   $38,252,091   $1,954,197   $1,944,089   $24,418,577
                                    ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ==========   ==========   ===========
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
  Paid-in capital.................  $27,767,559   $34,446,324   $42,036,466   $35,287,986   $1,879,352   $1,739,717   $23,173,657
  Undistributed net investment
    income........................        7,694       133,876      (149,359)           --           --           --         2,086
  Accumulated net realized gain
    (loss) on investments and
    foreign currency related
    items.........................      (52,362)     (188,152)      (27,229)     (700,579)      (4,427)      (9,337)      628,745
  Net unrealized appreciation
    (depreciation) on:
    Investments...................    1,835,787     2,626,335     6,637,385     3,664,684       79,729      213,709       614,089
    Foreign currency related
      items.......................       (4,033)      (72,232)      141,211            --           --           --            --
    Options written...............           --            --            --            --         (457)          --            --
                                    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
NET ASSETS........................  $29,554,645   $36,946,151   $48,638,474   $38,252,091   $1,954,197   $1,944,089   $24,418,577
                                    ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ==========   ==========   ===========
TOTAL SHARES OUTSTANDING (NO PAR
  VALUE), UNLIMITED SHARES
  AUTHORIZED......................    2,208,950     2,555,038     3,199,648     3,428,898      184,058      168,506     2,049,217
                                    ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ==========   ==========   ===========
NET ASSET VALUE, OFFERING AND
  REDEMPTION PRICE PER SHARE......       $13.38        $14.46        $15.20        $11.16       $10.62       $11.54        $11.92
                                    ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ==========   ==========   ===========
</TABLE>
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       18
<PAGE>   188
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  SALOMON                        T. ROWE
     JNL/PHOENIX        PPM             PPM           PPM         SALOMON       BROTHERS/JNL      T. ROWE       PRICE/JNL
     INVESTMENT     AMERICA/JNL     AMERICA/JNL   AMERICA/JNL   BROTHERS/JNL        U.S.         PRICE/JNL    INTERNATIONAL
       COUNSEL       HIGH YIELD        MONEY         VALUE         GLOBAL        GOVERNMENT     ESTABLISHED      EQUITY
       GROWTH           BOND          MARKET        EQUITY          BOND       & QUALITY BOND     GROWTH       INVESTMENT
       SERIES          SERIES         SERIES        SERIES         SERIES          SERIES         SERIES         SERIES
     -----------    -----------     -----------   -----------   ------------   --------------   -----------   -------------
<S>  <C>           <C>              <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>              <C>           <C>
     $23,800,643    $13,109,087     $23,003,245   $16,392,155    $13,370,742    $11,866,620     $28,994,231    $42,636,723
     ============  ==============   ============  ============  ============   ==============   ============  ============
     $24,090,991    $13,523,037     $23,003,245   $18,343,250    $13,574,106    $11,916,401     $32,988,888    $47,770,591
         10,359              --             --            --             --              --              --             --
             --              --             --            --             --              --             532        548,170
         18,717         292,496             31        36,625        240,675         115,022          30,238         87,212
             --              --             --            --      5,599,964              --              --             --
            272              --             --            --             --              --             464         36,889
        256,232         253,885        783,413       110,290         58,862          26,556         212,122        170,174
      1,206,353           1,300             --            --             --              --              --         11,116
          3,965              --             --        11,144             15              --           5,058             --
             --             813            227            --             --              --           3,747             --
     -----------    -----------     -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------     -----------    -----------
     25,586,889      14,071,531     23,786,916    18,501,309     19,473,622      12,057,979      33,241,049     48,624,152
     -----------    -----------     -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------     -----------    -----------
         16,199           8,431         11,965        10,663          9,100           5,537          22,257         45,096
             --              --             --            --          2,416              --              --             --
             --              --             --            --             --              --              --             --
             --              --             --            --      5,615,570              --              --             --
         17,634          31,405          8,194        11,867        164,436          18,716          48,622        261,424
            912           1,691            843        39,394         73,501           3,845          28,431          4,756
      2,731,642         615,535             --       661,506      1,102,544       2,184,744         833,185         72,609
         16,987          18,073         13,727        17,201         23,112          13,397          17,613         35,938
     -----------    -----------     -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------     -----------    -----------
      2,783,374         675,135         34,729       740,631      6,990,679       2,226,239         950,108        419,823
     -----------    -----------     -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------     -----------    -----------
     $22,803,515    $13,396,396     $23,752,187   $17,760,678    $12,482,943    $ 9,831,740     $32,290,941    $48,204,329
     ============  ==============   ============  ============  ============   ==============   ============  ============
     $21,854,859    $12,806,840     $23,752,187   $15,672,149    $12,212,887    $ 9,772,004     $28,335,681    $42,985,389
             --           6,041             --         5,272         24,906              --          (3,896)        65,539
        658,308         169,565             --       132,162         57,447           9,955         (35,557)        16,473
        290,348         413,950             --     1,951,095        203,364          49,781       3,994,657      5,133,868
             --              --             --            --        (15,661)             --              56          3,060
     -----------    -----------     -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------     -----------    -----------
     $22,803,515    $13,396,396     $23,752,187   $17,760,678    $12,482,943    $ 9,831,740     $32,290,941    $48,204,329
     ============  ==============   ============  ============  ============   ==============   ============  ============
      1,604,348       1,255,147     23,752,187     1,225,273      1,174,127         963,480       2,571,210      3,989,593
     ============  ==============   ============  ============  ============   ==============   ============  ============
         $14.21          $10.67          $1.00        $14.50         $10.63           $10.20         $12.56          $12.08
     ============  ==============   ============  ============  ============   ==============   ============  ============
 
<CAPTION>
 
       T. ROWE
      PRICE/JNL
       MID-CAP
       GROWTH
       SERIES
      ---------
<S>  <C>
     $42,772,841
     ===========
     $47,883,620
              ==
          12,339
              --
             314
         280,259
         115,264
             806
              --
     -----------
      48,292,602
     -----------
          35,547
              ==
              --
          53,574
           2,647
       1,075,875
          20,470
     -----------
       1,188,113
     -----------
     $47,104,489
     ===========
     $42,010,676
            (301)
         (16,665)
       5,110,779
              --
     -----------
     $47,104,489
     ===========
 
     ===========
 
     ===========
</TABLE>
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   189
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                            STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                  FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996*
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                      JNL/PHOENIX
                                            JNL          JNL          JNL                       JNL/      JNL/EAGLE   INVESTMENT
                                         AGGRESSIVE    CAPITAL       GLOBAL     JNL/ALGER    EAGLE CORE   SMALLCAP      COUNSEL
                                           GROWTH       GROWTH      EQUITIES      GROWTH       EQUITY      EQUITY      BALANCED
                                           SERIES       SERIES       SERIES       SERIES      SERIES*      SERIES*      SERIES
                                         ----------    -------      --------    ---------    ----------   ---------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Dividends............................  $   68,842   $  276,523   $  270,951   $  121,872    $  8,749    $  2,525    $   65,313
  Interest.............................     221,102       83,548      128,161       99,498         328         753       335,923
  Foreign tax withholding..............      (2,804)      (2,253)     (23,275)          --          (4)         --          (274)
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENT INCOME................     287,140      357,818      375,837      221,370       9,073       3,278       400,962
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
EXPENSES
  Investment advisory fees.............     145,930      169,538      247,941      195,472       3,785       3,709       104,754
  Custodian fees.......................      38,301       25,104      117,996       11,344       1,040         537         9,088
  Transfer agent fees..................       1,266        1,266        1,266        1,066          --          --         1,066
  Portfolio accounting fees............       3,438        3,516        3,749        2,866          --          --         2,479
  Registration fees....................          58          118           88           99         322         322            50
  Professional fees....................      18,559       18,558       24,358       19,258      12,862      12,862        19,258
  Trustee fees.........................       1,357        1,362        1,357        1,357         440         440         1,356
  Other................................       7,023        7,594        8,003        8,079         851         851         4,916
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
TOTAL EXPENSES.........................     215,932      227,056      404,758      239,541      19,300      18,721       142,967
Less:
  Reimbursement from Advisor...........     (45,898)     (29,898)    (118,829)      (4,467)    (14,884)    (14,426)      (20,493)
  Fees paid indirectly.................      (2,234)      (2,641)      (2,093)     (10,114)         --          --          (839)
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
NET EXPENSES...........................     167,800      194,517      283,836      224,960       4,416       4,295       121,635
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
NET INVESTMENT INCOME (LOSS)...........     119,340      163,301       92,001       (3,590)      4,657      (1,017)      279,327
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES)
Net realized gain (loss) on:
  Investments..........................     602,416     (221,942)   1,196,113     (523,886)     (4,427)     (9,337)      933,110
  Foreign currency related items.......       9,765       28,945       (2,943)          --          --          --            --
Net change in unrealized appreciation
  (depreciation) on:
    Investments........................     999,505      872,041    4,236,085    3,281,071      79,272     213,709       476,858
    Foreign currency related items.....      (4,062)     (71,967)     128,253           --          --          --            --
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN
  (LOSS)...............................   1,607,624      607,077    5,557,508    2,757,185      74,845     204,372     1,409,968
                                           --------   ----------   ----------   ----------    --------    --------    ----------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
  FROM OPERATIONS......................  $1,726,964   $  770,378   $5,649,509   $2,753,595    $ 79,502    $203,355    $1,689,295
                                           ========   ==========   ==========   ==========    ========    ========    ==========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
* For period beginning September 16, 1996, commencement of operations, for
  JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series and JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   190
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                 T. ROWE
     JNL/PHOENIX                      PPM                                         SALOMON         T. ROWE       PRICE/JNL
     INVESTMENT        PPM        AMERICA/JNL       PPM          SALOMON       BROTHERS/JNL      PRICE/JNL    INTERNATIONAL
       COUNSEL     AMERICA/JNL       MONEY      AMERICA/JNL    BROTHERS/JNL   U.S. GOVERNMENT   ESTABLISHED      EQUITY
       GROWTH       HIGH YIELD      MARKET      VALUE EQUITY   GLOBAL BOND    & QUALITY BOND      GROWTH       INVESTMENT
       SERIES      BOND SERIES      SERIES         SERIES         SERIES          SERIES          SERIES         SERIES
     -----------   -----------    -----------   ------------   ------------   ---------------   -----------   -------------
<S>  <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>            <C>               <C>           <C>
     $   72,873     $    4,681     $     --      $  235,569     $       --       $     --       $  196,524     $  568,552
         96,978        758,156      711,067           3,240        651,374        330,690           60,800        111,792
           (640)          (502)          --              --           (878)            --           (6,107)       (46,836)
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
        169,211        762,335      711,067         238,809        650,496        330,690          251,217        633,508
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
         76,618         59,890       77,345          56,818         64,789         35,080          133,940        297,941
          4,983          7,083        8,291          31,960         11,067          7,581           10,126         15,444
          1,066          1,066        1,065           1,066          1,166          1,266            1,266          1,266
          1,080          2,458        2,457           2,479          3,196          2,747            3,443          3,883
             50             99           75              24             77             37              195             77
         18,358         21,457       17,058          18,358         24,858         18,159           18,957         24,858
          1,356          1,356        1,356           1,356          1,357          1,357            1,357          1,357
          5,164          3,443        2,722           4,245          3,491          2,683            6,426          6,200
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
        108,675         96,852      110,369         116,306        110,001         68,910          175,710        351,026
        (19,190)       (24,657)     (13,678)        (46,993)       (33,688)       (26,313)         (18,006)       (12,467)
           (562)        (1,626)        (115)         (4,967)          (515)          (221)            (266)            --
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
         88,923         70,569       96,576          64,346         75,798         42,376          157,438        338,559
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
         80,288        691,766      614,491         174,463        574,698        288,314           93,779        294,949
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
      1,130,393        217,828           --         299,700        275,846         29,022           93,499        203,836
             --             --           --              --         57,170             --          (12,360)        25,484
        152,651        383,145           --       1,455,960        178,039         82,805        3,384,049      2,679,873
             --             --           --              --        (21,421)            --               44          2,709
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
      1,283,044        600,973           --       1,755,660        489,634        111,827        3,465,232      2,911,902
       --------     ----------    ----------     ----------       --------       --------       ----------
     $1,363,332     $1,292,739     $614,491      $1,930,123     $1,064,332       $400,141       $3,559,011     $3,206,851
       ========     ==========    ==========     ==========       ========       ========       ==========
 
<CAPTION>
 
      T. ROWE
     PRICE/JNL
      MID-CAP
       GROWTH
       SERIES
     ---------
<S>  <C>
     $   72,375
        132,476
           (234)
        204,617
        210,778
         10,199
          1,066
          3,376
             99
         19,258
          1,356
          8,667
        254,799
        (10,714)
           (123)
        243,962
        (39,345)
        750,795
             (3)
      3,708,604
             --
      4,459,396
     $4,420,051
</TABLE>
 
                                       21
<PAGE>   191
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                      STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   JNL AGGRESSIVE                  JNL CAPITAL                   JNL GLOBAL
                                    GROWTH SERIES                 GROWTH SERIES                EQUITIES SERIES
                             ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                             PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                               APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
                               1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
                             DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                 1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
                             ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                          <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income
  (loss)...................  $   119,340     $   14,650    $   163,301     $  (27,120)   $    92,001    $    41,731
Net realized gain (loss)
  on:
  Investments..............      602,416      1,017,633       (221,942)       822,061      1,196,113      1,904,209
  Foreign currency related
    items..................        9,765        (27,706)        28,945         (6,783)        (2,943)      (114,384)
Net change in unrealized
  appreciation
  (depreciation) on:
  Investments..............      999,505        836,282        872,041      1,754,294      4,236,085      2,401,300
  Foreign currency related
    items..................       (4,062)            29        (71,967)          (265)       128,253         12,958
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
Net increase in net assets
  from operations..........    1,726,964      1,840,888        770,378      2,542,187      5,649,509      4,245,814
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO
  SHAREHOLDERS:
Net investment income......     (104,404)            --             (3)            --       (238,326)        (2,088)
Net realized gain on
  investment
  transactions.............   (1,470,576)      (205,786)      (390,495)      (422,240)    (2,687,572)      (365,329)
Return of capital..........     (289,382)            --             --             --       (955,663)            --
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
Total distributions to
  shareholders.............   (1,864,362)      (205,786)      (390,498)      (422,240)    (3,881,561)      (367,417)
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Proceeds from the sale of
  shares...................   26,877,906      6,815,571     34,276,844      7,274,705     38,726,566     11,922,082
Reinvestment of
  distributions............    1,746,593        205,786        374,294        422,240      3,277,573        367,417
Cost of shares redeemed....   (7,459,511)      (129,404)    (7,662,400)      (239,359)   (11,274,162)       (27,347)
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
Net increase in net assets
  from share
  transactions.............   21,164,988      6,891,953     26,988,738      7,457,586     30,729,977     12,262,152
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
Net increase in net
  assets...................   21,027,590      8,527,055     27,368,618      9,577,533     32,497,925     16,140,549
Net assets beginning of
  period...................    8,527,055             --      9,577,533             --     16,140,549             --
                             -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------    -----------
NET ASSETS END OF PERIOD...  $29,554,645     $8,527,055    $36,946,151     $9,577,533    $48,638,474    $16,140,549
                             ===========     ==========    ===========     ==========    ===========    ===========
UNDISTRIBUTED NET
  INVESTMENT INCOME........  $     7,694     $    7,691    $   133,876     $       --    $  (149,359)   $     2,538
                             ===========     ==========    ===========     ==========    ===========    ===========
 
<CAPTION>
                                      JNL/ALGER
                                    GROWTH SERIES
                             ---------------------------
                             PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                               APRIL 1,     OCTOBER 16,
                               1996 TO         1995*
                             DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                 1996           1996
                             ------------   ------------
<S>                          <C>            <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income
  (loss)...................  $    (3,590)    $   (4,334)
Net realized gain (loss)
  on:
  Investments..............     (523,886)      (176,693)
  Foreign currency related
    items..................           --             --
Net change in unrealized
  appreciation
  (depreciation) on:
  Investments..............    3,281,071        383,613
  Foreign currency related
    items..................           --             --
                             -----------     ----------
Net increase in net assets
  from operations..........    2,753,595        202,586
                             -----------     ----------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO
  SHAREHOLDERS:
Net investment income......           --             --
Net realized gain on
  investment
  transactions.............           --             --
Return of capital..........           --             --
                             -----------     ----------
Total distributions to
  shareholders.............           --             --
                             -----------     ----------
SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Proceeds from the sale of
  shares...................   34,332,656      8,603,764
Reinvestment of
  distributions............           --             --
Cost of shares redeemed....   (7,483,397)      (157,113)
                             -----------     ----------
Net increase in net assets
  from share
  transactions.............   26,849,259      8,446,651
                             -----------     ----------
Net increase in net
  assets...................   29,602,854      8,649,237
Net assets beginning of
  period...................    8,649,237             --
                             -----------     ----------
NET ASSETS END OF PERIOD...  $38,252,091     $8,649,237
                             ===========     ==========
UNDISTRIBUTED NET
  INVESTMENT INCOME........  $        --     $       --
                             ===========     ==========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
* Commencement of operations.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       22
<PAGE>   192
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
        JNL/          JNL/EAGLE
     EAGLE CORE       SMALLCAP        JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT        JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT            PPM AMERICA/JNL
    EQUITY SERIES   EQUITY SERIES     COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES        COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES        HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
    -------------   -------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
     PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
    SEPTEMBER 16,   SEPTEMBER 16,     APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996* TO        1996* TO        1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
    DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
        1996            1996            1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
    -------------   -------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S> <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
     $    4,657      $   (1,017)    $   279,327     $   64,994    $    80,288     $    3,173    $   691,766     $  384,605
         (4,427)         (9,337)        933,110        121,825      1,130,393        254,010        217,828        (24,875)
             --              --              --             --             --             --             --             --
         79,272         213,709         476,858        137,231        152,651        137,697        383,145         30,805
             --              --              --             --             --             --             --             --
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
         79,502         203,355       1,689,295        324,050      1,363,332        394,880      1,292,739        390,535
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
         (4,657)             --        (301,815)       (40,871)       (83,226)          (235)      (798,203)      (272,127)
             --              --        (364,079)       (61,660)      (608,389)      (117,706)       (23,388)            --
           (320)             --              --             --             --             --             --             --
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
         (4,977)             --        (665,894)      (102,531)      (691,615)      (117,941)      (821,591)      (272,127)
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
      2,027,399       1,760,997      21,937,839      4,496,694     21,124,451      2,128,041     12,401,767      5,775,829
          2,270              --         652,446        102,531        673,981        117,941        790,186        272,127
       (149,997)        (20,263)     (3,955,738)       (60,115)    (2,184,704)        (4,851)    (6,422,234)       (10,835)
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
      1,879,672       1,740,734      18,634,547      4,539,110     19,613,728      2,241,131      6,769,719      6,037,121
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
      1,954,197       1,944,089      19,657,948      4,760,629     20,285,445      2,518,070      7,240,867      6,155,529
             --              --       4,760,629             --      2,518,070             --      6,155,529             --
     ----------      ----------     -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------    -----------     ----------
     $1,954,197      $1,944,089     $24,418,577     $4,760,629    $22,803,515     $2,518,070    $13,396,396     $6,155,529
     ==========      ==========     ===========     ==========    ===========     ==========    ===========     ==========
     $       --      $       --     $     2,086     $   24,386    $        --     $    2,938    $     6,041     $  112,478
     ==========      ==========     ===========     ==========    ===========     ==========    ===========     ==========
</TABLE>
 
                                       23
<PAGE>   193
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           PPM AMERICA/JNL                PPM AMERICA/JNL              SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                                         MONEY MARKET SERIES            VALUE EQUITY SERIES             GLOBAL BOND SERIES
                                     ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------
                                     PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
                                       APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
                                       1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
                                     DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                         1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996
                                     ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>                                  <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss).......  $    614,491    $  234,137     $   174,463     $   48,909     $   574,698     $  417,787
Net realized gain (loss) on:
  Investments......................            --            --         299,700         90,665         275,846         76,520
  Foreign currency related items...            --            --              --             --          57,170         14,461
Net change in unrealized
  appreciation (depreciation) on:
  Investments......................            --            --       1,455,960        495,135         178,039         25,325
  Foreign currency related items...            --            --              --             --         (21,421)         5,760
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
Net increase in net assets from
  operations.......................       614,491       234,137       1,930,123        634,709       1,064,332        539,853
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
Net investment income..............      (614,491)     (234,137)       (183,956)       (34,144)       (754,598)      (284,881)
Net realized gain on investment
  transactions.....................            --            --        (226,911)       (31,292)       (280,691)       (13,959)
Return of capital..................            --            --              --             --              --             --
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
Total distribution to
  shareholders.....................      (614,491)     (234,137)       (410,867)       (65,436)     (1,035,289)      (298,840)
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Proceeds from the sale of shares...    43,176,521     7,080,475      15,648,559      2,744,940       9,953,802      5,906,032
Reinvestment of distributions......       606,298       234,137         398,998         65,436         870,854        298,840
Cost of shares redeemed............   (26,846,271)     (498,973)     (3,171,440)       (14,344)     (4,750,819)       (65,822)
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
Net increase in net assets from
  share transactions...............    16,936,548     6,815,639      12,876,117      2,796,032       6,073,837      6,139,050
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
Net increase in net assets.........    16,936,548     6,815,639      14,395,373      3,365,305       6,102,880      6,380,063
Net assets beginning of period.....     6,815,639            --       3,365,305             --       6,380,063             --
                                      -----------    ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------
NET ASSETS END OF PERIOD...........  $ 23,752,187    $6,815,639     $17,760,678     $3,365,305     $12,482,943     $6,380,063
                                      ===========    ==========     ===========     ==========     ===========     ==========
UNDISTRIBUTED NET INVESTMENT
  INCOME...........................  $         --    $       --     $     5,272     $   14,765     $    24,906     $  154,263
                                      ===========    ==========     ===========     ==========     ===========     ==========
</TABLE>
 
- ------------------------
* Commencement of operations.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       24
<PAGE>   194
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL                                           T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
          U.S. GOVERNMENT &              T. ROWE PRICE/JNL                INTERNATIONAL                T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
         QUALITY BOND SERIES         ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES       EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES        MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
     ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------
     PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
       APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
       1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
     DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
         1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996
     ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>  <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
     $   288,314     $  101,972     $    93,779     $   39,667     $   294,949     $   144,763    $   (39,345)    $    45,840
          29,022         16,922          93,499        755,376         203,836          28,284        750,795         646,003
              --             --         (12,360)          (688)         25,484         (98,371)            (3)           (638)
          82,805        (33,024)      3,384,049        610,608       2,679,873       2,453,995      3,708,604       1,402,175
              --             --              44             12           2,709             351             --              --
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
         400,141         85,870       3,559,011      1,404,975       3,206,851       2,529,022      4,420,051       2,093,380
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
        (318,115)       (69,090)        (91,356)       (32,938)       (465,733)             --       (144,094)         (1,703)
         (30,967)        (8,103)       (212,086)      (672,346)        (51,200)             --     (1,107,685)       (266,093)
              --             --      (1,234,953)            --              --              --             --              --
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
        (349,082)       (77,193)     (1,538,395)      (705,284)       (516,933)             --     (1,251,779)       (267,796)
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
       8,748,229      2,948,026      27,757,264      7,552,012      22,581,023      21,710,034     41,147,930       8,712,257
         330,365         77,193       1,489,773        705,284         255,509              --      1,198,205         267,796
      (2,304,702)       (27,107)     (7,748,754)      (184,945)     (1,533,092)        (28,085)    (8,955,066)       (260,489)
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
       6,773,892      2,998,112      21,498,283      8,072,351      21,303,440      21,681,949     33,391,069       8,719,564
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
       6,824,951      3,006,789      23,518,899      8,772,042      23,993,358      24,210,971     36,559,341      10,545,148
       3,006,789             --       8,772,042             --      24,210,971              --     10,545,148              --
     -----------     ----------     -----------     ----------     -----------     -----------    -----------     -----------
     $ 9,831,740     $3,006,789     $32,290,941     $8,772,042     $48,204,329     $24,210,971    $47,104,489     $10,545,148
     ===========     ==========     ===========     ==========     ===========     ===========    ===========     ===========
     $        --     $   31,823     $    (3,896)    $    6,828     $    65,539     $    80,214    $      (301)    $    44,137
     ===========     ==========     ===========     ==========     ===========     ===========    ===========     ===========
</TABLE>
 
                                       25
<PAGE>   195
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                              FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              JNL AGGRESSIVE                  JNL CAPITAL                     JNL GLOBAL
                                              GROWTH SERIES                  GROWTH SERIES                 EQUITIES SERIES
                                       ----------------------------   ----------------------------   ----------------------------
                                       PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM
                                         APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,        APRIL 1,        MAY 15,
                                         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*         1996 TO          1995*
                                       DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                           1996           1996            1996           1996            1996           1996
                                       ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------    ------------   ------------
<S>                                    <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF
  PERIOD.............................    $ 13.13        $10.00          $ 13.86         $10.00         $ 13.75         $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss).........       0.05           0.01            0.06             --            0.03           0.10
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items......................       1.10           3.53            0.70           4.70            2.72           4.02
                                         -------        -------         -------         ------         -------         ------
Total income from investment
  operations.........................       1.15           3.54            0.76           4.70            2.75           4.12
                                         -------        -------         -------         ------         -------         ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income...........      (0.05)            --              --             --           (0.08)            --
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions.......................      (0.71)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (0.90)         (0.37)
Return of capital....................      (0.14)            --              --             --           (0.32)            --
                                         -------        -------         -------         ------         -------         ------
Total distributions..................      (0.90)         (0.41)          (0.16)         (0.84)          (1.30)         (0.37)
                                         -------        -------         -------         ------         -------         ------
Net increase.........................       0.25           3.13            0.60           3.86            1.45            3.75
                                         -------        --------        -------         ------         -------         -------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD.......    $ 13.38        $  13.13        $ 14.46         $13.86         $ 15.20         $ 13.75
                                         =======        ========        =======         ======         =======         =======
TOTAL RETURN(A)......................       8.72%          35.78%          5.45%         47.94%          19.99%          41.51%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands).........................    $29,555        $  8,527        $36,946         $9,578         $48,638         $16,141
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c).......................       1.09%           1.09%          1.09%          1.09%           1.14%           1.15%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)...........       0.77%           0.27%          0.91%         (0.49)%          0.37%           0.39%
Portfolio turnover rate..............      85.22%         163.84%        115.88%        128.56%          52.02%         142.36%
Average commission rate paid(d)......    $0.0242             n/a        $0.0196            n/a         $0.0162             n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID
  INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b)..........................       1.40%           2.77%          1.27%          2.08%           1.63%           2.25%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)..............       0.46%          (1.41)%         0.73%         (1.48)%         (0.12)%         (0.71)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 *  Commencement of operations.
 
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all distributions, and a complete redemption of the
    investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total return is
    not annualized.
 
(b) Annualized.
 
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
 
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       26
<PAGE>   196
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   JNL/EAGLE       JNL/EAGLE
                                  CORE EQUITY      SMALLCAP        JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT       JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT
     JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES        SERIES       EQUITY SERIES    COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES       COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES
    --------------------------   -------------   -------------   --------------------------   --------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM   PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,     OCTOBER 16,   SEPTEMBER 16,   SEPTEMBER 16,     APRIL 1,       MAY 15,       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO       1995* TO       1996* TO        1996* TO        1996 TO       1995* TO       1996 TO       1995* TO
    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,    DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,
        1996          1996           1996            1996            1996          1996           1996          1996
    ------------   -----------   -------------   -------------   ------------   -----------   ------------   -----------
     <S>           <C>           <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
        $10.38       $10.00           $10.00          $10.00         $11.17        $10.00         $12.50        $10.00
            --           --            0.03           (0.01)          0.10          0.25           0.04           0.01
          0.78         0.38            0.62            1.55           0.98          1.40           2.12           3.66
       -------       ------          ------          ------        -------        ------        -------         ------
          0.78         0.38            0.65            1.54           1.08          1.65           2.16           3.67
       -------       ------          ------          ------        -------        ------        -------         ------
            --           --           (0.03)             --          (0.15)        (0.19)         (0.05)            --
            --           --              --              --          (0.18)        (0.29)         (0.40)         (1.17)
            --           --              --              --             --            --             --             --
       -------       ------          ------          ------        -------        ------        -------         ------
            --           --           (0.03)             --          (0.33)        (0.48)         (0.45)         (1.17)
       -------       ------          ------          ------        -------        ------        -------         ------
          0.78         0.38            0.62            1.54           0.75          1.17           1.71           2.50
       -------       ------          ------          ------        -------        ------        -------         ------
        $11.16       $10.38          $10.62          $11.54         $11.92        $11.17         $14.21         $12.50
       =======       ======          ======          ======        =======        ======        =======         ======
          7.51%        3.80%           6.47%          15.40%          9.72%        16.60%         17.28%         37.69%
       $38,252       $8,649         $ 1,954         $ 1,944        $24,419        $4,761        $22,804         $2,518
          1.07%        1.03%           1.05%           1.10%          1.04%         1.01%          1.04%          0.95%
         (0.02)%      (0.17)%          1.10%          (0.26)%         2.39%         2.99%          0.94%          0.28%
         59.92%       50.85%           1.36%          28.01%        158.15%       115.84%        184.33%        255.03%
       $0.0441          n/a         $0.0452         $0.0264        $0.0494           n/a        $0.0175            n/a
          1.19%        1.89%           4.57%           4.77%          1.22%         3.71%          1.27%          5.38%
         (0.14)%      (1.03)%         (2.42)%         (3.93)%         2.21%         0.29%          0.71%         (4.15)%
 
<CAPTION>
 
        PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH
         YIELD BOND SERIES
     --------------------------
     PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
       APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
       1996 TO       1995* TO
     DECEMBER 31,    MARCH 31,
         1996          1996
     ------------   -----------
      <S>            <C>
        $10.23        $10.00
          0.51          0.73
          0.64          0.04
       -------        ------
          1.15          0.77
       -------        ------
         (0.69)        (0.54)
         (0.02)           --
            --            --
       -------        ------
         (0.71)        (0.54)
       -------        ------
          0.44          0.32
       -------        ------
        $10.67        $10.23
       =======        ======
         11.24%         7.82%
       $13,396        $6,156
          0.88%         0.88%
          8.64%         8.34%
        113.08%       186.21%
           n/a           n/a
          1.21%         1.50%
          8.31%         7.72%
</TABLE>
 
                                       27
<PAGE>   197
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                        FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                PPM AMERICA/JNL               PPM AMERICA/JNL            SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                                              MONEY MARKET SERIES           VALUE EQUITY SERIES           GLOBAL BOND SERIES
                                          ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                          PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
                                            APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
                                            1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
                                          DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
                                              1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
                                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD....    $  1.00         $1.00         $ 12.77         $10.00        $ 10.46           $10.00
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss)............       0.04          0.04            0.10           0.23           0.42             0.81
Net realized and unrealized gains on
  investments and foreign currency
  related items.........................         --            --            1.97           2.86           0.70             0.24
                                            -------         -----         -------         ------        -------           ------
Total income from investment
  operations............................       0.04           0.04           2.07           3.09           1.12             1.05
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------           ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
From net investment income..............      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.15)         (0.17)         (0.69)           (0.56)
From net realized gains on investment
  transactions..........................         --             --          (0.19)         (0.15)         (0.26)           (0.03)
Return of capital.......................         --             --             --             --             --               --
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------           ------
Total distributions.....................      (0.04)         (0.04)         (0.34)         (0.32)         (0.95)           (0.59)
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------           ------
Net increase............................         --             --           1.73           2.77           0.17             0.46
                                            -------         ------        -------         ------        -------           ------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD..........    $  1.00         $ 1.00        $ 14.50         $12.77        $ 10.63           $10.46
                                            =======         ======        =======         ======        =======           ======
TOTAL RETURN(A).........................       3.61%          4.59%         16.25%         31.14%         10.68%           10.74%
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (in
  thousands)............................    $23,752         $6,816        $17,761         $3,365        $12,483           $6,380
Ratio of net expenses to average net
  assets(b)(c)..........................       0.75%          0.75%          0.85%          0.87%          0.99%            1.00%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b)(c)..............       4.75%          5.06%          2.29%          2.33%          7.52%            9.01%
Portfolio turnover rate.................         --             --          13.71%         30.12%        109.85%          152.89%
Average commission rate paid(d).........        n/a            n/a        $0.0259            n/a            n/a              n/a
RATIO INFORMATION ASSUMING NO EXPENSE
  REIMBURSEMENT OR FEES PAID INDIRECTLY
Ratio of expenses to average net
  assets(b).............................       0.85%          1.30%          1.53%          2.28%          1.44%            2.14%
Ratio of net investment income to
  average net assets(b).................       4.65%          4.51%          1.61%          0.91%          7.07%            7.87%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 * Commencement of operations.
 
(a) Assumes investment at net asset value at the beginning of the period,
    reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, and a complete redemption
    of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period. Total
    return is not annualized.
 
(b) Annualized.
 
(c) Computed after giving effect to the Advisor's expense reimbursement and fees
    paid indirectly.
 
(d) Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       28
<PAGE>   198
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL U.S.                                        T. ROWE PRICE/
       GOVERNMENT & QUALITY            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL             JNL INTERNATIONAL             T. ROWE PRICE/JNL
            BOND SERIES            ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES     EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES        MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
    ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM    PERIOD FROM
      APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,        APRIL 1,       MAY 15,
      1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*         1996 TO         1995*
    DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,   DECEMBER 31,   TO MARCH 31,
        1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996           1996
    ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
    <S>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
     $  10.09       $  10.00       $  11.36       $  10.00       $  11.25        $ 10.00       $  13.43       $  10.00
         0.24           0.45           0.03           0.07           0.06           0.04          (0.05)          0.06
         0.24           0.02           1.81           2.68           0.90           1.21           1.92           3.90
     --------       --------       --------       --------       --------        -------       --------       --------
         0.48           0.47           1.84           2.75           0.96           1.25           1.87           3.96
     --------       --------       --------       --------       --------        -------       --------       --------
        (0.34)         (0.34)         (0.04)         (0.06)         (0.12)            --          (0.05)            --
        (0.03)         (0.04)         (0.09)         (1.33)         (0.01)            --          (0.36)         (0.53)
           --             --          (0.51)            --             --             --             --             --
     --------       --------       --------       --------       --------        -------       --------       --------
        (0.37)         (0.38)         (0.64)         (1.39)         (0.13)            --          (0.41)         (0.53)
     --------       --------       --------       --------       --------        -------       --------       --------
         0.11           0.09           1.20           1.36           0.83           1.25           1.46           3.43
     --------       --------       --------       --------       --------        -------       --------       --------
     $  10.20       $  10.09       $  12.56       $  11.36       $  12.08        $ 11.25       $  14.89       $  13.43
     ========       ========       ========       ========       ========        ========      ========       ========
         4.82%          4.65%         16.12%         28.23%          8.54%         12.50%         13.91%         40.06%
     $  9,832       $  3,007       $ 32,291       $  8,772       $ 48,204        $24,211       $ 47,104       $ 10,545
         0.84%          0.84%          1.00%          1.00%          1.25%          1.25%          1.10%          1.10%
         5.72%          5.41%          0.59%          0.75%          1.09%          0.78%         (0.18)%         0.82%
       218.50%        253.37%         36.41%        101.13%          5.93%         16.45%         25.05%         66.04%
          n/a            n/a       $ 0.0288            n/a       $ 0.0257            n/a       $ 0.0326            n/a
         1.37%          2.53%          1.11%          2.09%          1.29%          2.14%          1.14%          2.10%
         5.19%          3.72%          0.48%         (0.34)%         1.05%         (0.11)%        (0.22)%        (0.18)%
</TABLE>
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   199
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                       NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
NOTE 1. ORGANIZATION
 
     JNL Series Trust ("Trust") is an open-end management investment company
organized under the laws of Massachusetts, by a Declaration of Trust, dated June
1, 1994. The Trust is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission
under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The Trust currently offers shares in
sixteen (16) separate Series, each with its own investment objective. The shares
of the Trust are sold primarily to life insurance company separate accounts to
fund the benefits of variable annuity policies.
 
     The Trust is composed of the following Series: JNL Aggressive Growth, JNL
Capital Growth and JNL Global Equities for which Janus Capital Corporation
serves as the sub-advisor; JNL/Alger Growth for which Fred Alger Management,
Inc. serves as the sub-advisor; JNL/Eagle Core Equity and JNL/Eagle SmallCap
Equity for which Eagle Asset Management, Inc. serves as sub-advisor; JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Balanced and JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth for which
Phoenix Investment Counsel, Inc. serves as the sub-advisor; PPM America/JNL High
Yield Bond, PPM America/JNL Money Market and PPM America/JNL Value Equity for
which PPM America, Inc. serves as the sub-advisor; Salomon Brothers/JNL Global
Bond and Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond for which Salomon
Brothers Asset Management Inc serves as the sub-advisor; T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth for which T. Rowe Price
Associates, Inc. serves as the sub-advisor; and T. Rowe Price/JNL International
Equity Investment for which Rowe Price-Fleming International, Inc. serves as the
sub-advisor. Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc has entered into a
sub-advisory consulting agreement with its London based affiliate, Salomon
Brothers Asset Management Limited pursuant to which it will provide certain
sub-advisory services to Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc relating to
currency transactions and investments in non-dollar denominated debt securities
for the benefit of the Series. Jackson National Financial Services, Inc.
("JNFSI"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jackson National Life Insurance Company
("Jackson National"), serves as investment advisor ("Advisor") for all the
Series of the Trust. PPM America, Inc. is an affiliate of the Advisor. Shares
are presently offered only to Jackson National and its separate account. As of
December 31, 1996, Jackson National's investment in the Trust totaled
$45,710,487.
 
     The costs associated with the organization of the Trust and certain other
initial period costs have been borne by Jackson National.
 
     Effective December 31, 1996, the Trust changed its fiscal year end to
December 31.
 
NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
     The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by
the Trust in the preparation of its financial statements.
 
     USE OF ESTIMATES -- The preparation of 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 income and expenses during
the reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
     SECURITY VALUATION -- 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 Trustees. 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. Short-term
securities maturing within 60 days of purchase, and all securities in the PPM
America/JNL Money Market Series, are valued at amortized cost, which
approximates market value. American Depository Receipts ("ADRs"), which are
certificates representing shares of foreign securities deposited in domestic and
foreign banks, are traded and valued in U.S. dollars.
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   200
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     SECURITY TRANSACTIONS AND INVESTMENT INCOME -- Security transactions are
accounted for on a trade date basis. Dividend income is recorded on the
ex-dividend date. Interest income, including level-yield amortization of
discounts and premiums, is accrued daily. Realized gains and losses are
determined on the specific identification basis, which is the same basis used
for federal income tax purposes.
 
     FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATIONS -- The accounting records of the Trust are
maintained in U.S. dollars. Investment securities and other assets and
liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are translated into U.S. dollars
using exchange rates in effect at the close of the New York Stock Exchange.
Purchases and sales of investment securities, income receipts, and expense
payments are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates prevailing on
the respective dates of such transactions.
 
     Realized gains and losses arising from selling foreign currencies and
certain non-dollar denominated fixed income securities, entering into forward
foreign currency exchange contracts, and accruing income or settling portfolio
purchases and sales denominated in a foreign currency paid or received at a
later date are recorded as net realized foreign currency related gains (losses)
and are considered ordinary income for tax purposes. Realized and unrealized
gains and losses on investments which result from changes in foreign currency
exchange rates are primarily included in net realized gains (losses) on
investments and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments,
respectively.
 
     FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS -- Some of the Series may enter into foreign
currency contracts ("contracts"), generally to hedge foreign currency exposure
between trade date and settlement date on security purchases and sales ("spot
hedges") or to minimize foreign currency risk on portfolio securities
denominated in foreign currencies ("position hedges"). All contracts are valued
at the forward currency exchange rate and are marked-to-market daily. When the
contract is open, the change in market value is recorded as net unrealized
appreciation (depreciation) on foreign currency related items. When the contract
is closed, the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was
opened and the value at the time it was closed is recorded as net realized gain
(loss) on foreign currency related items.
 
     The use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts does not eliminate
fluctuations in the underlying prices of the Series' portfolio securities, but
it does establish a rate of exchange that can be achieved in the future.
Although contracts limit the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the
hedged currency, they also limit any potential gain that might result should the
value of the currency increase. Additionally, the Series could be exposed to the
risk of a previously hedged position becoming unhedged if the counterparties to
the contracts are unable to meet the terms of the contracts. See Note 7 for a
listing of open forward foreign currency exchange contracts as of December 31,
1996.
 
     WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY TRANSACTIONS -- The Series may purchase
securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis. On the trade date, the
Series record purchases of when-issued securities and reflects the values of
such securities in determining net asset value in the same manner as other
portfolio securities. Income is not accrued until settlement date.
 
     UNREGISTERED SECURITIES -- Some of the Series own certain investment
securities which are unregistered and thus restricted to resale. These
securities are valued by the Series after giving due consideration to pertinent
factors including recent private sales, market conditions and the issuer's
financial performance. Where future dispositions of the securities require
registration under the Securities Act of 1933, the Series have the right to
include their securities in such registration generally without cost to the
Series. The Series have no right to require registration of unregistered
securities. Unregistered and other illiquid securities are limited to 15% (10%
in the case of PPM America/JNL Money Market Series and the JNL/Alger Growth
Series) of the net assets of a Series.
 
     OPTIONS TRANSACTIONS -- Some of the Series may write covered call options
on portfolio securities. The risk in writing a call option is that the Series
gives up the opportunity of profit if the market price of the security
increases. Option contracts are valued at the closing prices on their exchanges
and the Series will realize a gain or loss upon expiration or closing of the
option transaction. When an option is exercised, the proceeds on sales for a
written call option are adjusted by the amount of premium received.
 
     DOLLAR ROLL TRANSACTIONS -- The Salomon Brothers/ JNL Global Bond Series 
and the Salomon Brothers/JNL
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   201
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series entered into dollar roll transactions with
respect to mortgage securities in which the Series sells mortgage securities and
simultaneously agrees to repurchase similar (same type, coupon and maturity)
securities at a later date at an agreed upon price. During the period between
the sale and repurchase, the Series forgoes principal and interest paid on the
mortgage securities sold. The Series is compensated by the interest earned on
the cash proceeds of the initial sale and from negotiated fees paid by brokers
offered as an inducement to the Series to "roll over" its purchase commitments.
 
     REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS -- Certain Series in the Trust may invest in
repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement involves the purchase of a
security by a Series and a simultaneous agreement (generally by a bank or
broker-dealer) to repurchase that security back from the Series at a specified
price and date or upon demand. Securities pledged as collateral for repurchase
agreements are held by the Series custodian bank until the maturity of the
repurchase agreement. Procedures for all repurchase agreements have been
designed to assure that the daily market value of the collateral is in excess of
the repurchase agreement in the event of default.
 
     DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS -- The PPM America/JNL Money Market Series
declares dividends daily and pays dividends monthly. For all other Series,
dividends from net investment income are declared and paid annually, but may be
done more frequently to avoid excise tax. Distributions of net realized capital
gains, if any, will be distributed annually. All income, dividends, and capital
gains distributions, if any, on Series shares are reinvested automatically in
additional shares of the Series at the net asset value determined on the first
business day following the record date, unless otherwise requested by the
shareholder.
 
     FEDERAL INCOME TAXES -- The Trust's policy is to comply with the
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment
companies and to distribute income in amounts that will avoid federal income or
excise taxes for each Series. The Trust may periodically make reclassifications
among certain of its capital accounts as a result of the recognition and
characterization of certain income and capital gain distributions determined
annually in accordance with federal tax regulations which may differ from
generally accepted accounting principles.
 
     For federal income tax purposes, JNL Capital Growth Series, JNL/Alger
Growth Series and JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series have capital loss carryovers
totalling $168,603, $696,137 and $5,034, respectively, expiring in 2004 which
can be used to offset future realized capital gains.
 
NOTE 3. INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FEES AND TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
     JNFSI is the investment advisor of each Series and provides each Series
with professional investment supervision and management. JNFSI provides
accounting services, preparation of financial statements, tax services and
regulatory reports to the Trust. In addition to providing the services described
above, JNFSI selects, contracts with, and compensates sub-advisors to manage the
investment and reinvestment of the assets of the Trust.
 
     As compensation for its services, JNFSI receives a fee from each Series.
The fees, which are accrued daily and payable monthly, are calculated on the
basis of the average daily net assets of each Series. Once the average net
assets of a Series exceed specified amounts, the fee is reduced with respect to
such excess. The following is a schedule of the fees each Series is currently
obligated to pay JNFSI.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $50 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(M - MILLIONS)                                                  $50 M    $150 M    $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- --------------                                                  -----    ------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .85%      .85%
JNL Global Equities Series..................................    1.00%    1.00%       .95%       .90%      .90%
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................    .975%    .975%      .975%       .95%      .90%

</TABLE>

 
                                       32
<PAGE>   202
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $50 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(M - MILLIONS)                                                  $50 M    $150 M    $300 M     $500 M     $500 M
- --------------                                                  -----    ------    -------    -------    ------
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series................................     .90%     .85%       .85%       .75%      .75%
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series............................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .85%
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series..............     .90%     .80%       .75%       .70%      .65%
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series................     .90%     .85%       .80%       .75%      .70%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series.........................     .60%     .60%      .575%       .55%     .525%
PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series.........................     .75%     .70%      .675%       .65%     .625%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .75%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................     .70%     .70%       .65%       .60%      .55%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .85%     .85%       .80%       .80%      .80%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....    1.10%    1.05%      1.00%       .95%      .90%
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .95%     .95%       .90%       .90%      .90%
</TABLE>
 
     As compensation for their services, the sub-advisors receive fees from
JNFSI computed separately for each Series. The fee for each Series is stated as
an annual percentage of the net assets of such Series. The following is a
schedule of the management fees JNFSI currently is obligated to pay the
sub-advisors out of the advisory fee it receives from each Series as specified
above.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            $0 TO    $50 TO    $100 TO    $150 TO    $300 TO     OVER
(M - MILLIONS)                                              $50 M    $100 M    $150 M     $300 M     $500 M     $500 M-  
- --------------                                              -----    ------    -------    -------    -------    ------              
<S>                                                        <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series*..........................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Capital Growth Series*.............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL Global Equities Series*............................     .55%      .55%       .50%       .50%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................     .55%      .55%       .55%       .55%      .50%       .45%
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series...........................     .45%      .40%       .40%       .40%      .30%       .30%
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series.......................     .50%      .50%       .50%       .45%      .45%       .40%
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series.........     .50%      .40%       .40%       .30%      .25%       .20%
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series...........     .50%      .40%       .40%       .30%      .25%       .20%
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series.................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................     .20%      .15%       .15%      .125%      .10%      .075%
PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series....................     .25%      .20%       .20%      .175%      .15%      .125%
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................    .375%      .35%       .35%       .30%      .30%       .25%
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................    .225%     .225%      .225%      .175%      .15%       .10%
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                $0 TO    $20 TO    $50 TO     $200
                                                                $20 M    $50 M     $200 M      M+
                                                                -----    ------    ------     ----
<S>                                                             <C>      <C>       <C>       <C>
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................     .45%      .40%     .40%**     .40%
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....     .75%      .60%     .50%       .50%**
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................     .60%      .50%     .50%**     .50%
</TABLE>
 
 * Prior to September 16, 1996, the sub-advisory fees payable to Janus for these
Series were: $0 to $50 million -- .60%; $50 to $150 million -- .55%; $150 to
$300 million -- .45%; $300 to $500 million -- .40%; over $500 million -- .40%.
 
** When average net assets exceed this amount, the sub-advisory fee asterisked
is applicable to all amounts in this Series.
 
     Trustees not affiliated with Jackson National receive a fee of $2,500 for
each meeting of the Board of Trustees attended as well as certain out of pocket
expenses. No remuneration has been paid by the Trust to any of the officers or
affiliated Trustees. The Trust paid fees of $20,000 to non-affiliated Trustees
for the period ended December 31, 1996.
 
     Each Series is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to
it, such as advisory, custodian, accounting services and certain shareholder
service fees, while other expenses that cannot be directly attributable to a
Series are allocated in equal proportion to each Series.
 
                                       33
<PAGE>   203
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     Currently, the Advisor reimburses each of the Series for annual expenses
(excluding the investment advisory fee) prior to fees paid indirectly in excess
of .15 % of average daily net assets. These voluntary reimbursements may be
modified or discontinued by the Advisor at any time.
 
     During the period ended December 31, 1996, the Series earned credits on
uninvested cash balances held by certain Series at the custodian. These credits
were used to reduce custodian expenses. Of the credits for the JNL/Alger Growth
Series, $10,114 was used to reduce expenses and the remaining $58,958 in credits
are included in interest income.
 
NOTE 4. SECURITY TRANSACTIONS
 
     During the period ended December 31, 1996, cost of purchases and proceeds
from sales and maturities of securities, other than short-term investments, were
as follows (in thousands):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 COST OF     PROCEEDS FROM SALES
                                                                PURCHASES      AND MATURITIES
                                                                ---------    -------------------
<S>                                                             <C>          <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series................................     $29,706           $12,904
JNL Capital Growth Series...................................      49,090            25,376
JNL Global Equities Series..................................      42,931            16,034
JNL/Alger Growth Series.....................................      39,382            13,988
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series................................       1,739                18
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series............................       1,967               355
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series..............      37,329            20,960
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series................      36,290            17,825
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series......................      17,786            11,343
PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series.........................      14,173             1,628
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series.....................      18,882            12,774
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series....................................................      21,718            15,072
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series.................      26,615             7,325
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series....      22,137             2,036
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series.....................      35,253             6,673
</TABLE>
 
     Included in these transactions were purchases and sales of U.S. Government
obligations of $13,728,073 and $6,229,697 in the JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel
Balanced Series; $3,608,199 and $1,501,046 in the Salomon Brothers/JNL Global
Bond Series; $11,928,476 and $4,375,100 in the Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S.
Government & Quality Bond Series, respectively.
 
     The federal income tax cost basis and gross unrealized appreciation and
depreciation on investments as of December 31, 1996, were as follows (in
thousands):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             TAX        GROSS          GROSS
                                                            COST      UNREALIZED     UNREALIZED    NET UNREALIZED
                                                            BASIS    APPRECIATION   DEPRECIATION    APPRECIATION
                                                            -----    ------------   ------------   --------------
<S>                                                        <C>       <C>            <C>            <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series.............................  $28,099      $2,522        $  (750)         $1,772
JNL Capital Growth Series................................   34,938       4,094         (1,409)          2,685
JNL Global Equities Series...............................   42,410       7,450           (940)          6,510
JNL/Alger Growth Series..................................   34,480       4,738         (1,078)          3,660
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series.............................    1,717         103            (24)             79
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series.........................    1,603         264            (50)            214
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series...........   23,695         876           (291)            585
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series.............   23,812         689           (410)            279
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series...................   13,109         435            (21)            414
PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series......................   16,392       1,997            (46)          1,951
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series..................   13,367         412           (205)            207
</TABLE>

 
                                       34
<PAGE>   204
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             TAX        GROSS          GROSS
                                                            COST      UNREALIZED     UNREALIZED    NET UNREALIZED
                                                            BASIS    APPRECIATION   DEPRECIATION    APPRECIATION
                                                            -----    ------------   ------------   --------------
<S>                                                        <C>       <C>            <C>            <C>
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality
  Bond Series............................................  $11,871      $   66        $   (21)         $   45
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series..............   29,030       4,544           (585)          3,959
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment
  Series.................................................   42,818       6,723         (1,770)          4,953
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series..................   42,790       6,400         (1,306)          5,094
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 5. TRUST TRANSACTIONS
 
     Transactions of trust shares for the period ending December 31, 1996 were
as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             SHARES      DISTRIBUTIONS      SHARES          NET
                                                           PURCHASED      REINVESTED       REDEEMED       INCREASE
                                                           ---------     -------------     --------       --------
<S>                                                        <C>           <C>              <C>            <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series...........................     1,957,943       130,538          (528,956)    1,559,525
JNL Capital Growth Series..............................     2,355,859        25,885          (517,730)    1,864,014
JNL Global Equities Series.............................     2,508,660       215,630          (698,526)    2,025,764
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................     3,282,099            --          (686,090)    2,596,009
JNL/Eagle Core Equity Series...........................       198,190           214           (14,346)      184,058
JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series.......................       170,418            --            (1,912)      168,506
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series.........     1,895,883        54,735          (327,417)    1,623,201
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series...........     1,507,501        47,430          (151,986)    1,402,945
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series.................     1,157,121        74,057          (577,564)      653,614
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................    43,176,521       606,298       (26,846,271)   16,936,548
PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series....................     1,153,246        27,517          (219,113)      961,650
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................       898,823        81,924          (416,558)      564,189
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................       852,084        32,389          (218,886)      665,587
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series............     2,278,033       118,612          (597,638)    1,799,007
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment
  Series...............................................     1,947,418        21,151          (131,846)    1,836,723
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series................     2,905,453        80,471          (608,146)    2,377,778
</TABLE>
 
     Transactions of trust shares for the period ending March 31, 1996 were as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             SHARES      DISTRIBUTIONS      SHARES          NET
                                                           PURCHASED      REINVESTED       REDEEMED       INCREASE
                                                           ---------     -------------     --------       --------
<S>                                                        <C>           <C>              <C>            <C>
JNL Aggressive Growth Series...........................       642,443        17,149           (10,167)      649,425
JNL Capital Growth Series..............................       675,761        33,752           (18,489)      691,024
JNL Global Equities Series.............................     1,146,694        29,253            (2,063)    1,173,884
JNL/Alger Growth Series................................       848,221            --           (15,332)      832,889
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Balanced Series.........       422,105         9,270            (5,359)      426,016
JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel Growth Series...........       191,590        10,203              (390)      201,403
PPM America/JNL High Yield Bond Series.................       575,596        26,997            (1,060)      601,533
PPM America/JNL Money Market Series....................     7,080,475       234,137          (498,973)    6,815,639
PPM America/JNL Value Equity Series....................       259,328         5,480            (1,185)      263,623
Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series................       586,655        29,530            (6,247)      609,938
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond
  Series...............................................       293,083         7,487            (2,677)      297,893
T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth Series............       723,123        65,547           (16,467)      772,203
T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment
  Series...............................................     2,155,419            --            (2,549)    2,152,870
T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series................       783,616        21,614           (19,833)      785,397
</TABLE>

 
                                       35
<PAGE>   205
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
NOTE 6. FOREIGN SECURITIES
 
     Investing in securities of foreign companies and foreign governments
involves special risks and considerations not typically associated with
investing in U.S. companies and the U.S. Government. These risks include
revaluation of currencies and future adverse political and economic
developments. Moreover, securities of many foreign companies and foreign
governments and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile
than those of securities of comparable U.S. companies and the U.S. Government.
 
NOTE 7. FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
 
     At December 31, 1996, the following Series had entered into "position
hedge" forward foreign currency exchange contracts that obligate the Series to
deliver and receive currencies at specified future dates. The unrealized
appreciation (depreciation) of $(4,194), $(71,007), $139,453, and $(15,606) in
the JNL Aggressive Growth Series, JNL Capital Growth Series, JNL Global Equities
Series, and Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series, respectively, is included
in net unrealized appreciation on foreign currency related items in the
accompanying financial statements. The terms of the open contracts are as
follows:
 
JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SETTLEMENT                                        U.S. $ VALUE                                        U.S. $ VALUE
   DATE           CURRENCY TO BE DELIVERED        AT 12/31/96          CURRENCY TO BE RECEIVED        AT 12/31/96
- ----------        ------------------------        ------------         -----------------------        ------------
<C>              <S>                              <C>               <C>                               <C>
  4/22/97         99,832  US $                     $   99,832        150,000  Deutsche Mark            $   98,200
  4/22/97        150,000  Deutsche Mark                98,200         98,457  US $                         98,457
  1/27/97         10,000  Finnish Marka                 2,178          2,234  US $                          2,234
  4/22/97         15,000  Finnish Marka                 3,285          3,292  US $                          3,292
  5/27/97      1,000,000  Finnish Marka               219,527        223,140  US $                        223,140
   6/4/97        130,000  Finnish Marka                28,554         28,341  US $                         28,341
  1/16/97         35,000  British Sterling Pound       59,943         54,600  US $                         54,600
  4/22/97          4,000  British Sterling Pound        6,833          6,340  US $                          6,340
  5/27/97        120,000  British Sterling Pound      204,783        201,576  US $                        201,576
  6/04/97         47,000  British Sterling Pound       80,188         78,729  US $                         78,729
  1/27/97         35,786  US $                         35,786     55,000,000  Italian Lire                 36,203
  1/27/97     70,000,000  Italian Lire                 46,076         45,625  US $                         45,625
  2/10/97     30,000,000  Italian Lire                 19,734         19,526  US $                         19,526
  5/12/97     50,000,000  Italian Lire                 32,790         32,731  US $                         32,731
  5/27/97         35,765  US $                         35,765     55,000,000  Italian Lire                 36,056
  5/27/97    110,000,000  Italian Lire                 72,111         72,746  US $                         72,746
  1/27/97         80,000  Swedish Kronor               11,744         12,164  US $                         12,164
  3/11/97        235,000  Swedish Kronor               34,565         34,417  US $                         34,417
  4/22/97         29,228  US $                         29,228        200,000  Swedish Kronor               29,474
  4/22/97        400,000  Swedish Kronor               58,948         60,441  US $                         60,441
  5/27/97        190,000  Swedish Kronor               28,046         28,847  US $                         28,847
  6/04/97        577,000  Swedish Kronor               85,202         85,985  US $                         85,985
                                                   ----------                                          ----------
                                                   $1,293,318                                          $1,289,124
                                                   ==========                                          ==========
 

</TABLE>

                                       36
<PAGE>   206
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SETTLEMENT                                        U.S. $ VALUE                                        U.S. $ VALUE
   DATE           CURRENCY TO BE DELIVERED        AT 12/31/96          CURRENCY TO BE RECEIVED        AT 12/31/96
- ----------        ------------------------        ------------         -----------------------        ------------
<C>             <S>                               <C>            <C>          <C>                     <C>
  1/16/97        115,000  British Sterling Pound   $  196,955        179,400  US $                     $  179,400
  1/24/97        300,000  British Sterling Pound      513,711        465,090  US $                        465,090
  5/27/97        125,000  British Sterling Pound      213,315        209,975  US $                        209,975
  6/04/97         48,000  British Sterling Pound       81,894         80,403  US $                         80,403
                                                     --------                                            --------
                                                   $1,005,875                                          $  934,868
                                                     ========                                            ========
</TABLE>
 
JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SETTLEMENT                                        U.S. $ VALUE                                        U.S. $ VALUE
   DATE           CURRENCY TO BE DELIVERED        AT 12/31/96          CURRENCY TO BE RECEIVED        AT 12/31/96
- ----------        ------------------------        ------------         -----------------------        ------------
<C>             <S>                               <C>            <C>          <C>                     <C>
  1/16/97        600,000  Swiss Franc              $  448,999        484,539  US $                     $  484,539
  1/17/97        150,000  Swiss Franc                 112,377        125,408  US $                        125,408
  3/04/97      1,400,000  Swiss Franc               1,052,746      1,058,809  US $                      1,058,809
  5/12/97        122,000  Swiss Franc                  92,398         98,125  US $                         98,125
  1/16/97         30,000  Deutsche Mark                19,516         19,840  US $                         19,840
  1/17/97        275,000  Deutsche Mark               178,909        183,541  US $                        183,541
  1/27/97        400,000  Deutsche Mark               260,402        272,067  US $                        272,067
  3/04/97      1,400,000  Deutsche Mark               913,560        900,354  US $                        900,354
  1/16/97        750,000  Finnish Marka               163,222        165,213  US $                        165,213
  5/12/97         93,000  Finnish Marka                20,395         20,701  US $                         20,701
  1/16/97        500,000  French Franc                 96,458         97,656  US $                         97,656
  1/16/97        164,211  US $                        164,211        100,000  British Sterling Pound      171,265
  1/16/97        100,000  British Sterling Pound      171,265        156,000  US $                        156,000
  1/17/97        345,213  US $                        345,213        210,000  British Sterling Pound      359,649
  1/17/97        210,000  British Sterling Pound      359,649        324,971  US $                        324,971
  1/16/97    115,250,000  Japanese Yen                997,420      1,057,276  US $                      1,057,276
  3/11/97      9,000,000  Japanese Yen                 78,489         80,413  US $                         80,413
  6/17/97     21,000,000  Japanese Yen                185,716        189,309  US $                        189,309
  1/17/97      6,400,000  Swedish Kronor              939,106        970,727  US $                        970,727
  1/27/97        700,000  Swedish Kronor              102,758        106,727  US $                        106,727
 11/03/97        118,000  South African Rand           22,925         22,597  US $                         22,597
                                                   ----------                                          ----------
                                                   $6,725,734                                          $6,865,187
                                                   ==========                                          ==========
</TABLE>
 
                                       37
<PAGE>   207
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                JNL SERIES TRUST
 
                 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SETTLEMENT                                        U.S. $ VALUE                                        U.S. $ VALUE
   DATE           CURRENCY TO BE DELIVERED        AT 12/31/96          CURRENCY TO BE RECEIVED        AT 12/31/96
- ----------        ------------------------        ------------         -----------------------        ------------
<C>           <S>                                 <C>             <C>                                 <C>
  1/22/97         19,327  Australian $             $   15,357         15,268  US $                     $   15,268
  1/22/97        645,849  Canadian $                  472,117        482,318  US $                        482,318
  1/22/97      1,309,879  US $                      1,309,879      1,971,084  Deutsche Mark             1,282,766
  1/22/97      2,030,669  Deutsche Mark             1,321,543      1,333,702  US $                      1,333,702
  1/22/97         29,973  US $                         29,973        178,341  Danish Kroner                30,310
  1/22/97        698,859  Danish Kroner               118,774        120,141  US $                        120,141
  1/22/97        654,334  US $                        654,334        396,126  Irish Punts                 671,193
  1/22/97        508,142  Irish Punts                 860,992        830,025  US $                        830,025
  1/22/97        415,507  US $                        415,507        590,796  New Zealand $               417,095
  1/22/97        590,796  New Zealand $               417,094        417,146  US $                        417,146
                                                     --------                                            --------
                                                   $5,615,570                                          $5,599,964
                                                   ==========                                          ==========
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 8. RECLASSIFICATION OF PERMANENT BOOK-TO-TAX DIFFERENCES
 
     As a result of permanent book-to-tax differences, the following
reclassifications were made to the statement of assets and liabilities. For the
period ended December 31, 1996, accumulated net realized gain (loss) on
investments and foreign currency related items was increased (decreased) by
$14,933, $29,422, $5,572, ($188), ($50,543), $2,022, $13,147, ($156,109) and
($39,044), respectively, for the JNL Aggressive Growth Series, JNL Capital
Growth Series, JNL Global Equities Series, JNL/Phoenix Investment Counsel
Balanced Series, Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series, Salomon Brothers/JNL
U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series, T. Rowe Price/JNL Established Growth
Series, T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment Series and T. Rowe
Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series; undistributed net investment income was
increased (decreased) by ($14,933), ($29,422), ($5,572), $3,590, $1,017, $188,
$50,543, ($2,022), ($13,147), $156,109 and $139,001, respectively, for JNL
Aggressive Growth Series, JNL Capital Growth Series, JNL Global Equities Series,
JNL/Alger Growth Series, JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series, JNL/Phoenix
Investment Counsel Balanced Series, Salomon Brothers/JNL Global Bond Series,
Salomon Brothers/JNL U.S. Government & Quality Bond Series, T. Rowe Price/JNL
Established Growth Series, T. Rowe Price/JNL International Equity Investment
Series and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap Growth Series; and net increases
(decreases) of ($3,590), ($1,017) and ($99,957), respectively, for the JNL/Alger
Growth Series, JNL/Eagle SmallCap Equity Series and T. Rowe Price/JNL Mid-Cap
Growth Series, were reclassified in the Series' paid-in capital.
 
                                       38
<PAGE>   208
 
                          JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                           SHARES      VALUE
                                           ------     ------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 83.26%
- -----------------------------------------
FINLAND -- 0.81%
- -----------------------------------------
DURABLE GOODS -- 0.81%
  Metra Oy, B Shares.....................  4,307    $   241,567
FRANCE -- 0.31%
- -----------------------------------------
COMPUTER SERVICES -- 0.31%
  Axime (a)..............................    806         93,206
ITALY -- 0.43%
- -----------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.06%
  Banca Popolare Di Bergamo..............  1,047         17,254
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.37%
  Telecom Italia Mobile (a)..............  43,732       110,555
                                                    -----------
    Total Italy..........................               127,809
MEXICO -- 0.05%
- -----------------------------------------
BROKERAGE -- 0.05%
  Grupo Financiero Inbursa, S.A. de
  C.V. ..................................  4,300         14,694
SWEDEN -- 0.66%
- -----------------------------------------
HOLDING COMPANY -- 0.28%
  Kinnevik AB, B Shares..................  3,018         83,195
SECURITY SYSTEMS -- 0.22%
  Securitas AB, B Shares.................  2,307         67,148
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.16%
  Netcom Systems AB (a)..................  2,940         47,636
                                                    -----------
    Total Sweden.........................               197,979
UNITED KINGDOM -- 1.74%
- -----------------------------------------
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 1.24%
  Rentokil Group.........................  49,326       371,825
DRUGS -- 0.06%
  Glaxo Wellcome.........................  1,128         18,359
FINANCIAL -- 0.44%
  Barclays...............................  7,653        131,177
                                                    -----------
    Total United Kingdom.................               521,361
UNITED STATES -- 79.26%
- -----------------------------------------
AEROSPACE & AIRCRAFT -- 0.66%
  U.S. Robotics Corp. (a) ...............  2,725        196,200
APPAREL -- 3.86%
  Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (a)............  15,225       251,212
  Nike, Inc., Class B....................  6,975        416,756
  Nordstrom, Inc. .......................  1,150         40,753
  Gucci Group N.V.-N.Y...................  6,650        424,769
  Tommy Hilfiger Corp. (a)...............    400         19,200
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,152,690
BANKS -- 7.50%
  Chase Manhattan Corp. .................  3,375        301,219
  Wells Fargo & Co. .....................  7,191      1,939,772
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,240,991
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                           SHARES      VALUE
                                           ------     ------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 1.51%
  Intelliquest Information Group, Inc.
  (a)....................................  6,750    $   153,563
  Lamar Advertising Co. (a)..............  5,475        132,769
  Outdoor Systems Inc. (a)...............  5,175        145,547
  Quintiles Transnational Corp. (a)......     75          4,969
  West Teleservices Corp. (a)............    625         14,219
                                                    -----------
                                                        451,067
CHEMICALS -- 3.70%
  Lilly Eli & Co. .......................  7,475        545,675
  Monsanto Co. ..........................  8,950        347,931
  Praxair, Inc. .........................  1,300         59,963
  SmithKline Beecham PLC -- ADR..........  2,225        151,300
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,104,869
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY -- 23.73%
  Baan Co NVF (a)........................    425         14,769
  Black Box Corp. (a)....................    825         34,031
  Cisco Systems, Inc. (a)................  16,025     1,019,591
  Documentum, Inc. (a)...................    950         32,062
  Ecsoft Group, PLC (a)..................  4,800         46,200
  First Data Corp. ......................  16,100       587,650
  HBO & Co. .............................  16,525       981,172
  HNC Software, Inc. (a).................  6,600        206,250
  Indus Group, Inc. (a)..................  3,775         97,206
  Intel Corp. ...........................  3,150        412,453
  Intelligroup, Inc. (a).................  20,000       220,000
  International Business Machines
    Corp. ...............................  3,250        490,750
  JDA Software, Inc. (a).................  6,200        176,700
  Keane, Inc. (a)........................  10,000       317,500
  Meta Group, Inc. (a)...................  9,150        247,050
  Microsoft Corp. (a)....................  1,500        123,938
  Netscape Communications Corp. (a)......  5,600        318,500
  Oracle Systems Corp. (a)...............  1,650         68,887
  Parametric Technology Corp. (a)........  9,875        507,328
  Peoplesoft, Inc. (a)...................  11,550       553,678
  Sapient Corp. (a)......................    800         33,700
  Sun Microsystems, Inc. (a).............  9,750        250,453
  Verifone, Inc. (a).....................  3,000         88,500
  Xylan Corp. (a)........................  9,150        258,488
                                                    -----------
                                                      7,086,856
CONSTRUCTION -- 0.12%
  Fastenal Co. ..........................    825         37,744
DRUGS -- 2.31%
  Centocor, Inc (a)......................  14,700       525,525
  Glaxo Wellcome -- ADR..................  1,175         37,306
  Pharmaceutical Product Development,
    Inc. (a).............................  5,050        127,513
                                                    -----------
                                                        690,344
</TABLE>

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       39
<PAGE>   209
 
                          JNL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                           SHARES      VALUE
                                           ------     ------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
ELECTRONICS -- 2.79%
  Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (a).......    950    $    24,462
  Analog Devices, Inc. (a)...............  8,425        285,397
  Cambridge Technology Partners, Inc.
    (a)..................................    425         14,264
  Etec Systems, Inc. (a).................    750         28,688
  Pittway Corp., Class A (a).............  8,975        480,163
                                                    -----------
                                                        832,974
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 5.05%
  Associates First Capital Corp. ........  7,025        309,978
  Concord EFS, Inc. (a)..................  2,775         78,394
  First USA Paymentech, Inc. (a).........  29,725     1,006,935
  National Processing, Inc. (a)..........  5,575         89,200
  Schwab, Charles Corp. .................    750         24,000
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,508,507
FOOD SERVICE & RESTAURANT -- 0.05%
  Papa John's International, Inc. (a)....    412         13,905
GAMES & TOYS -- 0.15%
  Galoob Toys, Inc. (a)..................  3,125         43,750
HEALTH PRODUCTS -- 3.62%
  Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. ..............  2,375        258,281
  Fresenius Medical Care -- ADR (a)......  8,225        231,328
  Omnicare, Inc. ........................  12,275       394,334
  Warner Lambert Co. ....................  2,650        198,750
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,082,693
HOTEL & MOTEL -- 2.83%
  Doubletree Corp. (a)...................  5,725        257,625
  Extended Stay America, Inc. (a)........    950         19,119
  Hospitality Franchise System, Inc.
    (a)..................................  9,500        567,625
                                                    -----------
                                                        844,369
INSURANCE -- 1.62%
  Compdent Corp. (a).....................  5,300        186,825
  SunAmerica, Inc. ......................  1,700         75,438
  UNUM Corp. ............................  3,075        222,169
                                                    -----------
                                                        484,432
MACHINERY -- 1.00%
  Rofin-Sinar Technologies, Inc. (a).....  25,450       299,037
MEDICAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES -- 0.99%
  Target Therapeutics, Inc. (a)..........  7,025        295,050
MINING -- 1.00%
  Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan, Inc. ....  3,520        299,200
OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES -- 0.16%
  Danka Business Systems PLC.............  1,400         49,525
OIL & GAS -- 1.26%
  Triton Energy Corp. (a)................  7,750        375,875
REAL ESTATE -- 0.26%
  Redwood Trust, Inc. ...................  2,050         76,363
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                           SHARES      VALUE
                                           ------     ------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
RECREATION -- 0.07%
  Universal Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (a)...    900    $    21,150
RESTAURANTS -- 0.15%
  Planet Hollywood International, Inc.
  (a)....................................  2,325         45,919
RETAIL -- 0.20%
  Linen N Things, Inc. (a)...............  3,050         59,856
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 13.62%
  Ascend Communications, Inc. (a)........  6,100        378,962
  Cincinnati Bell, Inc. .................  12,250       754,906
  Comnet Cellular, Inc. (a)..............  1,750         48,781
  Lucent Technologies, Inc. .............  4,000        185,000
  MFS Communications Co., Inc. (a).......  19,747     1,076,212
  Millicom International Cellular S.A.
    (a)..................................  1,050         33,731
  Nokia Corp. ...........................  4,775        275,159
  Paging Network, Inc. (a)...............  5,900         89,975
  Palmer Wireless, Inc. (a)..............  5,800         60,900
  Premiere Technologies, Inc. (a)........  1,225         30,625
  Pricellular Corp., Class A (a).........  6,375         73,312
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras SA........  1,475        112,837
  Teletech Holdings, Inc. (a)............  12,600       327,600
  WorldCom, Inc. (a).....................  23,800       620,287
                                                    -----------
                                                      4,068,287
TRANSPORTATION -- 0.26%
  Wisconsin Central Transportation Corp.
  (a)....................................  1,950         77,269
WHOLESALE -- 0.79%
  Alco Standard Corp. (a)................  4,575        236,184
                                                    -----------
    Total United States..................            23,675,106
                                                    -----------
      Total Common Stocks
        (cost $23,035,935)...............            24,871,722
                                                    -----------
 
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL
                                          AMOUNT
                                        ---------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS -- 16.74%
- --------------------------------------
U.S. TREASURY BILLS -- 0.67%
  5.11%, 01/09/1997...................  $  200,000       199,773
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 16.07%
  Federal Home Discount Note
    6.50%, 01/02/1997.................   4,800,000     4,799,133
                                                      ----------
      Total Short Term Investments
        (cost $4,998,906).............                 4,998,906
                                                      ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $28,034,841)..................               $29,870,628
                                                      ==========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       40
<PAGE>   210
 
                           JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                       <C>       <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 89.31%
- ----------------------------------------
FRANCE -- 0.47%
- ----------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.47%
  Grand Optical Photoservice............    1,086   $   176,029
UNITED KINGDOM -- 12.61%
- ----------------------------------------
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 2.89%
  Rentokil Group........................  144,216     1,087,117
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 4.01%
  PizzaExpress PLC......................  166,850     1,507,853
FOOD SERVICE/RESTAURANT -- 5.71%
  J.D. Wetherspoon PLC..................  108,196     2,150,203
                                                    -----------
    Total United Kingdom................              4,745,173
UNITED STATES -- 76.23%
- ----------------------------------------
AUTOMOBILES & PARTS -- 0.69%
  O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(a)..........    8,125       260,000
BANKS -- 0.51%
  Fifth Third Bancorp...................    2,700       169,594
  First Empire State Corp. .............       75        21,600
                                                    -----------
                                                        191,194
BROADCASTING & COMMUNICATIONS -- 0.80%
  Univision Communications, Inc. (a)....    8,100       299,700
BUILDING MATERIALS -- 1.50%
  Barnett, Inc.(a)......................    7,675       209,144
  Boston Scientific Corp.(a)............    5,950       357,000
                                                    -----------
                                                        566,144
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 4.76%
  CUC International, Inc.(a)............   39,388       935,465
  Paychex, Inc. ........................    4,075       209,608
  Pet Food Warehouse, Inc.(a)...........   80,800       338,350
  Profit Recovery Group International,
    Inc.(a).............................   11,525       184,400
  Robert Half International, Inc.(a)....    3,575       122,891
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,790,714
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 0.75%
  Sanchez Computer Associates,
  Inc.(a)...............................      425         3,347
  Safeguard Scientifics, Inc.(a)........    8,800       279,400
                                                    -----------
                                                        282,747
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 4.13%
  CoinMachine Laundry Corp.(a)..........   48,150       866,700
  Culligan Water Technologies,
    Inc.(a).............................   16,925       685,462
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,552,162
CONTAINERS -- 1.93%
  Sealed Air Corp.(a)...................   17,475       727,399
DRUGS -- 0.98%
  Depotech Corp.(a).....................   11,425       187,084
  Teva Pharmaceutical Industries --
    ADR.................................    3,600       180,900
                                                    -----------
                                                        367,984
ELECTRONICS -- 0.49%
  Littlefuse, Inc.(a)...................    3,825       185,513
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                       <C>       <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 6.90%
  APS Holding Corp.(a)..................    7,950   $   123,225
  Associates First Capital Corp. .......    8,425       371,753
  Concord EFS, Inc.(a)..................    4,475       126,419
  First USA Paymentech, Inc.(a).........    8,725       295,559
  Insignia Financial Group, Inc.(a).....   57,525     1,294,312
  Schwab, Charles Corp. ................   12,050       385,600
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,596,868
FOOD SERVICE -- 4.18%
  JP Foodservice, Inc.(a)...............   14,750       411,156
  Papa John's International, Inc.(a)....   34,387     1,160,561
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,571,717
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 0.25%
  Forest Labs, Inc.(a)..................    2,825        92,519
HOTEL & MOTEL -- 6.59%
  Choice Hotels Holdings, Inc.(a).......   22,550       397,444
  Doubletree Corp.(a)...................    8,000       360,000
  Hospitality Franchise Systems,
    Inc.(a).............................   28,825     1,722,294
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,479,738
HOUSING -- 1.24%
  Karrington Health, Inc.(a)............   12,775       159,688
  Omnicare, Inc. .......................    9,575       307,597
                                                    -----------
                                                        467,285
INSURANCE -- 2.22%
  Protective Life Corp. ................   11,775       469,528
  UICI(a)...............................   11,250       365,625
                                                    -----------
                                                        835,153
MACHINERY -- 0.67%
  MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc.(a)....    6,850       253,450
MEDICAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES -- 0.73%
  Fresenius Medical Care -- ADR (a).....    9,750       274,219
MINING -- 1.38%
  Minerals Technologies, Inc. ..........   12,700       520,700
OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES -- 2.82%
  Viking Office Products, Inc. (a)......   39,725     1,060,161
RECREATION -- 2.10%
  Family Golf Centers, Inc.(a)..........   26,200       789,275
RESTAURANTS -- 0.46%
  Planet Hollywood International,
  Inc.(a)...............................    8,800       173,800
RETAIL -- 13.37%
  Fastenal Co. .........................   55,375     2,533,406
  Global DirectMail Corp.(a)............   40,025     1,746,091
  Petco Animal Supplies(a)..............   36,100       749,075
                                                    -----------
                                                      5,028,572
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 11.22%
  Cincinnati Bell, Inc. ................    2,900       178,713
  Comnet Cellular, Inc.(a)..............    9,950       277,356


</TABLE>
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       41
<PAGE>   211
 
                           JNL CAPITAL GROWTH SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                       <C>       <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------
  Millicom International Cellular
    SA(a)...............................   11,250   $   361,403
  Omnipoint Corp.(a)....................   27,650       532,263
  Paging Network, Inc.(a)...............  115,625     1,763,281
  Pricellular Corp. -- Class A(a).......   34,207       393,381
  Teletech Holdings, Inc.(a)............   27,450       713,700
                                                    -----------
                                                      4,220,097
TRANSPORTATION -- 3.45%
  Wisconsin Central Transportation
  Corp.(a)..............................   32,725     1,296,727
UTILITIES -- 2.11%
  Trigen Energy Corp. ..................   27,675       795,656
                                                    -----------
    Total United States.................             28,679,494
                                                    -----------
      Total Common Stocks
        (cost $30,999,299)..............             33,600,696
                                                    -----------
OPTIONS -- 0.19%
- ----------------------------------------
WARRANTS -- 0.19%
  Littlefuse, Inc. (a) (Expire
    12/27/2001)
    (cost $48,137)......................    1,850        73,075
                                                    -----------
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                         AMOUNT        VALUE
                                       ---------      ------
<S>                                    <C>          <C>
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- 10.50%
- -------------------------------------
U.S. TREASURY BILL -- 0.40%
  5.11%, 01/09/1997..................  $  150,000   $   149,830
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 10.10%
  Federal Home Discount Note
    6.50%, 01/02/1997................   3,800,000     3,799,314
                                                     ----------
      Total Short-Term Investments
        (cost $3,949,144)............                 3,949,144
                                                     ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- -------------------------------------
  (cost $34,996,580).................               $37,622,915
                                                     ==========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       42
<PAGE>   212
 
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 98.51%
- --------------------------------------
AUSTRALIA -- 1.75%
- --------------------------------------
HOTELS -- 1.07%
  Crown Ltd.(a).......................     250,726   $   524,131
LEISURE -- 0.68%
  Aristocrat Leisure Ltd..............     127,384       331,091
                                                      ----------
    Total Australia...................                   855,222
BELGIUM -- 0.50%
- --------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.18%
  Credit Communal Holding Dexia(a)....         962        87,778
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.32%
  Telinfo SA(a).......................       3,799       154,941
                                                      ----------
    Total Belgium.....................                   242,719
BRAZIL -- 0.26%
- --------------------------------------
TOBACCO -- 0.26%
  Souza Cruz SA.......................      19,000       124,704
FINLAND -- 3.45%
- --------------------------------------
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 0.69%
  Tietotehdas Oy, Class B.............       3,978       336,314
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.67%
  Amer Group Ltd......................       6,327       130,666
  Metra AB............................       3,566       200,006
                                                      ----------
                                                         330,672
FOOD SERVICE -- 2.09%
  Huhtamaki Oy........................      14,290       664,796
  Raision Tehtaat Oy..................       5,678       357,961
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,022,757
                                                      ----------
    Total Finland.....................                 1,689,743
FRANCE -- 2.39%
- --------------------------------------
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 1.18%
  Cap Gemini..........................       6,284       303,875
  Sligos..............................       2,081       272,734
                                                      ----------
                                                         576,609
COMPUTER SERVICES -- 0.77%
  Axime(a)............................       3,290       380,457
CONSUMER GOODS -- 0.41%
  Grand Optical-Photoservice..........       1,223       198,235
FURNITURE -- 0.02%
  Moulinex(a).........................         263         6,057
RECREATION -- 0.01%
  Club Mediterranee...................          86         5,582
                                                      ----------
    Total France......................                 1,166,940
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
GERMANY -- 5.00%
- --------------------------------------
APPAREL -- 0.90%
  Eurobike AG (a).....................       2,408   $    73,548
  Wolford AG..........................       3,016       364,867
                                                      ----------
                                                         438,415
CHEMICALS -- 2.95%
  BASF AG.............................      14,047       541,140
  SGL Carbon AG.......................       1,338       168,685
  Hoechst AG..........................      15,500       732,291
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,442,116
RETAIL -- 1.15%
  Adidas AG...........................       6,531       564,481
                                                      ----------
    Total Germany.....................                 2,445,012
HONG KONG -- 0.28%
- --------------------------------------
BUILDING EQUIPMENT -- 0.02%
  New World Infrastructure Ltd.(a)....       3,400         9,935
HOLDING COMPANY -- 0.26%
  First Pacific Company Ltd.(a).......      35,000        45,478
  JCG Holdings Limited................      86,000        83,949
                                                      ----------
                                                         129,427
                                                      ----------
    Total Hong Kong...................                   139,362
INDONESIA -- 0.21%
- --------------------------------------
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 0.21%
  HM Sampoerna........................      19,000       101,355
ITALY -- 1.91%
- --------------------------------------
AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY -- 0.59%
  Parmalat Finanziaria SPA............     188,469       288,232
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 0.34%
  BCA Pop Di Milano...................      33,268       168,862
MANUFACTURING -- 0.41%
  Pagnossin SPA.......................      54,000       200,053
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.57%
  Telecom Italia Mobile(a)............      56,638       143,182
  Telecom Italia SPA..................      52,359       135,988
                                                      ----------
                                                         279,170
                                                      ----------
    Total Italy.......................                   936,317
JAPAN -- 4.90%
- --------------------------------------
AUTOMOBILE & PARTS -- 0.65%
  Honda Motor Co......................       8,000       228,650
  Isuzu Motors Limited................      14,000        62,257
  Yamaha Motor Co.....................       3,000        26,941
                                                      ----------
                                                         317,848
 
</TABLE>

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       43
<PAGE>   213
 
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
JAPAN -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
BUILDING EQUIPMENT -- 0.21%
  Kawasaki Heavy Industries...........      25,000   $   103,402
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 1.02%
  NTT Data Communications Systems
    Company(a)........................          17       497,625
DRUGS -- 0.66%
  Eisai Limited.......................      11,000       216,562
  Takeda Chemical Industries..........       5,000       104,913
                                                      ----------
                                                         321,475
ELECTRONICS -- 0.19%
  Sony Corp...........................       1,400        91,754
HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE & APPLIANCES --
  0.07%
  Amway Japan Limited.................       1,100        35,334
REAL ESTATE -- 0.36%
  Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd...........      12,000       123,305
  Mitsui Fudosan Co...................       6,000        60,098
                                                      ----------
                                                         183,403
RETAIL -- 0.79%
  Credit Saison Co....................       9,900       221,406
  Hankyu Department Stores............       6,000        59,580
  Isetan..............................       8,000       103,618
                                                      ----------
                                                         384,604
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.95%
  Nippon Telegraph & Telephone
    Corp..............................          61       462,464
                                                      ----------
    Total Japan.......................                 2,397,909
NETHERLANDS -- 4.92%
- --------------------------------------
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.33%
  Hunter Douglas N.V..................       2,433       164,173
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 1.16%
  Getronics N.V.......................      20,865       566,793
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.91%
  Nutricia Verenigde Bedrijven........       2,929       445,330
ELECTRONICS -- 0.88%
  Philips Electronics.................      10,617       430,460
ENTERTAINMENT -- 0.25%
  Endomol Entertainment (a)...........       3,686       122,760
OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES -- 0.47%
  Oce Grinten.........................       2,105       228,727
PRINTING & PUBLISHING -- 0.92%
  Wolters Kluwer N.V..................       3,374       448,499
                                                      ----------
    Total Netherlands.................                 2,406,742
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
NORWAY -- 0.79%
- --------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES -- 0.31%
  Tomra System AS.....................       9,800   $   151,340
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.48%
  Tandberg AS (a).....................       7,635       235,813
                                                      ----------
    Total Norway......................                   387,153
PHILIPPINES -- 0.35%
- --------------------------------------
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.35%
  Hi-Cement Corp.(a)..................     521,500       172,511
PORTUGAL -- 0.34%
- --------------------------------------
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.34%
  Cimpor-Cimentos de Portugal -- SA...       7,656       164,822
SINGAPORE -- 1.28%
- --------------------------------------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 1.28%
  Datacraft Asia Ltd..................     376,000       627,920
SOUTH AFRICA -- 0.10%
- --------------------------------------
METALS & MINING -- 0.10%
  De Beers Centenary Link AG..........       1,727        49,464
SOUTH KOREA -- 0.01%
- --------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.01%
  Kookmin Bank........................         324         5,945
SPAIN -- 0.30%
- --------------------------------------
COMMERCIAL SERVICES -- 0.30%
  Prosegur CIA de Seguridad SA(a).....      15,975       147,660
SWEDEN -- 10.35%
- --------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.55%
  Bure Investment AB..................       9,821       116,644
  Nordbanken AB.......................       3,110        94,168
  Sparbanken Sverige AB...............       3,416        58,604
                                                      ----------
                                                         269,416
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.19%
  Incentive AB........................       1,278        92,759
COMMERCIAL SERVICES -- 1.60%
  Securitas AB, Class B...............      26,891       782,689
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 1.76%
  Enator AB(a)........................       4,965       127,039
  Enator AB(a)........................         993        25,044
  Frontec AB, Class B(a)..............       9,481       164,043
  WM - Data AB........................       6,301       545,109
                                                      ----------
                                                         861,235
ELECTRONICS -- 1.96%
  Assa Abloy AB(a)....................      52,840       960,741
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       44
<PAGE>   214
 
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
SWEDEN -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 2.49%
  Althin Medical AB, Class B..........       3,964   $    86,024
  Nobel Bio-Care AB...................      17,824       313,623
  Medical Invest Svenska AB -- Ser. A
    (a)...............................       3,711        97,946
  Medical Invest Svenska AB -- Ser. B
    (a)...............................      27,118       719,711
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,217,304
HOLDING COMPANY -- 0.43%
  Kinnevik AB.........................       7,623       210,139
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY -- 0.05%
  Atlas Copco AB......................         949        22,960
NON-FERROUS METALS -- 0.10%
  Sandvik AB..........................       1,847        49,832
REAL ESTATE -- 0.96%
  Tornet Fastighets AB(a).............      30,814       469,898
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.26%
  Ericsson (LM) Tel...................       4,046       125,179
                                                      ----------
    Total Sweden......................                 5,062,152
SWITZERLAND -- 6.75%
- --------------------------------------
BANKS -- 1.03%
  Credit Suisse Group.................       4,894       502,746
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.37%
  Sulzer AG...........................         313       180,761
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 0.29%
  Fotolabo S.A........................          84        32,634
  SGS Holding.........................          44       108,151
                                                      ----------
                                                         140,785
DRUGS -- 4.55%
  Novartis AG (a).....................       1,029     1,178,758
  Roche Holding AG....................         135     1,050,448
                                                      ----------
                                                       2,229,206
INSURANCE -- 0.21%
  SCHW Ruckversicher..................          98       104,626
TRANSPORTATION -- 0.30%
  SwissAir............................         180       145,641
                                                      ----------
    Total Switzerland.................                 3,303,765
THAILAND -- 0.14%
- --------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.14%
  Bangkok Bank Public Co. Ltd.........       7,200        69,625
UNITED KINGDOM -- 23.09%
- --------------------------------------
AUTOMOBILES -- 0.09%
  Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.............       3,807        42,829
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 8.59%
- --------------------------------------
  CMG, (a)............................      35,955       520,634
  Freepages Group PLC (a).............     123,635        91,079
  Hays PLC............................     132,309     1,273,902
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED KINGDOM -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
BUSINESS SERVICES -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
  Page, Michael Group.................       8,729   $    62,062
  Rentokil Group......................     299,007     2,253,950
                                                      ----------
                                                       4,201,627
CHEMICALS -- 0.16%
  Victrex.............................      17,447        80,704
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 2.12%
  BTG.................................      58,900       459,131
  Misys PLC...........................      26,216       498,989
  Sema Group Systems AG...............       4,350        81,232
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,039,352
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.37%
  Compass Group PLC...................       7,436        78,984
  London International Group..........      36,736       103,845
                                                      ----------
                                                         182,829
DRUGS -- 0.89%
  Glaxo Wellcome PLC..................      10,168       165,489
  SmithKline Beecham -- ADR...........      19,464       269,435
                                                      ----------
                                                         434,924
ELECTRONICS -- 1.07%
  Electrocomponents...................      66,131       522,296
ENTERTAINMENT -- 0.77%
  London Clubs International PLC......      72,264       376,362
FINANCIAL -- 1.68%
  Barclays............................      19,057       326,649
  JBA Holdings PLC....................      25,709       235,640
  Lloyd's TSB Group...................      35,000       258,438
                                                      ----------
                                                         820,727
FOOD SERVICE -- 0.75%
  Harvey Nichols PLC..................      49,582       295,606
  Wetherspoon PLC.....................       3,662        72,776
                                                      ----------
                                                         368,382
MANUFACTURING -- 0.88%
  Lucas Varity PLC, (a)...............     112,800       430,947
METALS & MINING -- 1.46%
  Powerscreen International, PLC......      73,539       711,830
PRINTING & PUBLISHING -- 2.15%
  Dorling Kindersley..................       7,795        54,720
  EMAP................................       2,114        26,674
  Lagardere S.C.A.....................      25,512       700,185
  Pearson PLC.........................       5,614        71,654
  WPP Group...........................      45,864       198,794
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,052,027
RETAIL -- 1.23%
  ASDA Group..........................     228,750       482,033
  Thorn PLC...........................      27,165       117,744
                                                      ----------
                                                         599,777

</TABLE>


 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       45
<PAGE>   215
 
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED KINGDOM -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
TRANSPORTATION -- 0.88%
  Stagecoach Holdings.................      35,805   $   429,390
                                                      ----------
    Total United Kingdom..............                11,294,003
UNITED STATES -- 29.44%
- --------------------------------------
AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT -- 0.58%
  New Holland NV (a)..................      13,500       281,812
APPAREL -- 0.24%
  Nike, Inc. Class B..................       1,925       115,019
AUTOMOBILE & PARTS -- 0.33%
  Lucas Varity PLC -- ADR (a).........         425        16,150
  Tata Engineering....................       8,025        75,490
  Tata Engineering & Locomotive Co.
    Limited (144a)....................         700         6,585
  Tata Engineering & Locomotive Co.
    Limited (144a)....................       5,968        63,410
                                                      ----------
                                                         161,635
BANKS -- 2.69%
  Banco Frances Del Rio La Plata --
    ADR...............................       7,791       214,259
  Citicorp............................       1,200       123,600
  Wells Fargo & Co....................       3,633       980,002
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,317,861
BROADCAST & COMMUNICATIONS -- 0.93%
  Canwest Global Communications
    Corp..............................       6,150        63,037
  Grupo Televisa SA...................       9,825       251,766
  TV Filme, Inc.(a)...................      10,825       138,019
                                                      ----------
                                                         452,822
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 1.04%
  Select Appointments Holdings PLC --
    ADR (a)...........................      44,300       509,450
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY -- 3.19%
  Cisco Systems, Inc. (a).............       3,175       202,009
  Dassault Systemes SA(a).............       1,975        91,344
  First Data Corp.....................       7,200       262,800
  International Business Machines
    Corp..............................       3,475       524,725
  Parametric Technology Corp. (a).....       9,050       464,944
  SunGuard Data Systems, Inc.(a)......         400        15,800
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,561,622
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 0.45%
  Pepsico, Inc........................       7,500       219,375
DRUGS -- 0.63%
  Elan Corp.(a).......................       9,325       310,056
ELECTRICAL -- 0.80%
  Raychem Corp........................       2,900       232,363
  UCar International, Inc.(a).........       4,175       157,084
                                                      ----------
                                                         389,447
ELECTRONICS -- 1.58%
  Philips Electronics.................      19,324       772,960
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
ENERGY -- 0.18%
  Gazprom -- ADR (144a) (a)...........       2,750   $    48,813
  Mosenergo -- ADR (144a) (a).........       1,325        40,148
                                                      ----------
                                                          88,961
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 0.15%
  Associates First Capital Corp.......       1,650        72,806
FOOD SERVICE/RESTAURANT -- 0.13%
  Disco SA(a).........................       2,300        64,975
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 2.75%
  Grupo Casa Autrey -- ADR............      11,950       233,025
  Pfizer Inc..........................       4,100       339,788
  Physio -- Control International
    Corp. (a).........................      12,925       290,813
  SmithKline Beecham -- ADR...........       4,150       282,200
  Vivra, Inc. (a).....................       7,175       198,209
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,344,035
HOTEL & MOTEL -- 0.48%
  Hospitality Franchise Systems,
    Inc.(a)...........................       1,100        65,725
  Indian Hotels Co.(a)................       5,161       102,067
  Mandarin Oriental International
    Ltd...............................      47,200        66,552
                                                      ----------
                                                         234,344
MACHINERY -- 2.15%
  Pfeiffer Vacuum Technology AG(a)....      18,825       338,850
  Rofin-Sinar Technologies, Inc.(a)...      60,675       712,931
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,051,781
MEDICAL-HOSPITAL SERVICES -- 1.70%
  Fresenius Medical Care -- ADR(a)....      29,625       833,203
OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES -- 0.80%
  Danka Business Systems PLC..........      11,100       392,663
OIL -- 0.92%
  Bouygues Offshore SA, (a)...........      21,225       273,272
  Oil Co Lukoil (a)...................       1,075        48,295
  Tatneft -- ADR (a)..................       2,750       126,500
                                                      ----------
                                                         448,067
RETAIL -- 0.93%
  Santa Isabel SA.....................       2,900        65,612
  Gucci Group N.V.-N.Y................       6,100       389,637
                                                      ----------
                                                         455,249
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 5.74%
  Airtouch Communications, Inc.(a)....       1,375        34,719
  Ericsson LM Tel Co..................      12,100       365,269
  Korean Mobile Telecommunications,
    Inc. (144a)(a)....................      13,442       173,059
  Lucent Technologies, Inc............      10,050       464,813
  MFS Communications, Inc.(a).........       5,300       288,850
  Millicom International Cellular
    SA(a).............................       7,100       228,088
  Nokia Corp. -- ADR..................       6,825       393,291
  Paging Network, Inc.(a).............          75         1,144
  Portugal Telecom SA -- ADR..........       3,600       101,700
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       46
<PAGE>   216
 
                           JNL GLOBAL EQUITIES SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
  Telecom Argentina Stet France -- ADR
    Class B...........................          75   $     3,028
  Telefonos De Argentina -- ADR.......       4,325       111,909
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras SA.....       6,250       478,125
  Telefonica Del Peru SA..............       8,625       162,797
                                                      ----------
                                                       2,806,792
TRANSPORTATION -- 0.01%
  Tranz Rail Holdings -- ADR(a).......         300         5,306
WHOLESALE -- 1.04%
  Alco Standard Corp. (a).............       9,875       509,797
                                                      ----------
    Total United States...............                14,400,038
                                                      ----------
    Total Common Stocks
      (cost $41,619,865)..............                48,191,083
                                                      ----------
PREFERRED STOCKS -- 1.49%
- --------------------------------------
BRAZIL -- 0.14%
- --------------------------------------
BEVERAGES -- 0.03%
  Brahma..............................      21,000        11,479
ENERGY -- 0.11%
  Cemig CIA Energetica Minas..........   1,611,000        54,883
                                                      ----------
    Total Brazil......................                    66,362
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
PREFERRED STOCKS -- (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
FINLAND -- 0.20%
- --------------------------------------
COMMUNICATIONS -- 0.20%
  Nokia Oy AB.........................       1,703   $    98,774
GERMANY -- 1.01%
- --------------------------------------
AUTOMOBILES -- 0.12%
  Porsche AG..........................          64        56,564
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 0.89%
  Fresenius AG........................       1,700       351,313
  Fresenius Medical Care AG...........       1,058        85,222
                                                      ----------
                                                         436,535
                                                      ----------
    Total Germany.....................                   493,099
UNITED STATES -- 0.14%
- --------------------------------------
FOOD & BEVERAGES -- 0.14%
  Quilmes Industrial Quinsa -- ADR....       7,700        70,263
                                                      ----------
    Total Preferred Stocks
      (cost $662,331).................                   728,498
                                                      ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $42,282,196)..................               $48,919,581
                                                      ==========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       47
<PAGE>   217
 
                            JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 94.49%
- --------------------------------------
AEROSPACE & DEFENSE -- 3.77%
  Boeing Co. .........................       6,500   $   691,437
  Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.(a).......       7,100       172,175
  Ingram Micro, Inc.(a)...............      17,000       391,000
  United Technologies Corp. ..........       2,800       184,800
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,439,412
APPAREL -- 0.57%
  Tommy Hilfiger Corp.(a).............       4,500       216,000
BANKS -- 4.43%
  Chase Manhattan Corp. ..............       9,000       803,250
  Citicorp............................       8,600       885,800
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,689,050
BROADCASTING -- 0.44%
  Univision Communications, Inc.(a)...       4,500       166,500
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.41%
  Case Corp. .........................       2,900       158,050
CHEMICALS -- 2.06%
  Monsanto Co. .......................      20,200       785,275
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY -- 19.81%
  Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)..............      19,000     1,208,875
  Computer Associates International,
    Inc. .............................       2,900       144,275
  Compuware Corp.(a)..................       8,000       401,000
  First Data Corp. ...................      26,056       951,044
  Hewlett Packard Co. ................       5,500       276,375
  Informix Corp.(a)...................      22,000       448,250
  Intel Corp. ........................       9,700     1,270,094
  Linear Technology Corp. ............       5,200       228,150
  Microsoft Corp.(a)..................       9,000       743,625
  Parametric Technology Corp.(a)......       6,900       354,487
  Sabre Group Holdings, Inc.(a).......       5,400       150,525
  Sun Microsystems, Inc.(a)...........      16,000       411,000
  Sundstrand Corp. ...................       9,500       403,750
  3Com Corp.(a).......................       7,700       564,987
                                                     -----------
                                                       7,556,437
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.93%
  CUC International, Inc.(a)..........      15,000       356,250
DRUGS -- 6.23%
  Eli Lilly & Co. ....................      11,400       832,200
  Merck & Company, Inc. ..............      13,000     1,030,250
  Pfizer, Inc. .......................       6,200       513,825
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,376,275
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT -- 2.52%
  Boston Scientific Corp.(a)..........       4,500       270,000
  General Electric Co. ...............       7,000       692,125
                                                     -----------
                                                         962,125
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
ELECTRONICS -- 7.64%
  Adaptec, Inc(a).....................      23,200   $   928,000
  Altera Corp.(a).....................      10,300       748,681
  Maxim Integrated Products(a)........       3,900       168,675
  Picturetel Corp.(a).................      12,400       322,400
  Tellabs, Inc.(a)....................      10,000       376,250
  Xilinx, Inc.(a).....................      10,000       368,125
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,912,131
ENERGY SERVICES -- 2.03%
  Halliburton Co. ....................       8,900       536,225
  Tidewater, Inc. ....................       5,300       239,825
                                                     -----------
                                                         776,050
FINANCE COMPANIES -- 4.11%
  Green Tree Financial Corp. .........       8,000       309,000
  MBNA Corp. .........................       4,550       188,825
  MGIC Investment Corp. ..............       4,700       357,200
  Money Store (The), Inc. ............      12,000       331,500
  Schwab Charles Corp. ...............      11,900       380,800
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,567,325
GAMING -- 0.73%
  Mirage Resorts, Inc.(a).............      12,800       276,800
HEALTH CARE & PRODUCTS -- 7.45%
  Biochemical Pharmaceuticals,
    Inc.(a)...........................       7,100       356,775
  Bristol Myers Squibb Co. ...........       3,500       380,625
  Columbia HCA/Healthcare Corp. ......      15,500       631,625
  Medtronic, Inc. ....................      10,100       686,800
  Warner Lambert Co. .................      10,500       787,500
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,843,325
HOSPITALITY -- 2.60%
  Boston Chicken, Inc.(a).............      10,900       391,038
  Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon(a)....      12,800       342,400
  Outback Steakhouse, Inc.(a).........       2,500        66,875
  Safeway, Inc.(a)....................       4,500       192,375
                                                     -----------
                                                         992,688
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY -- 0.56%
  Tyco International, Ltd. ...........       4,000       211,500
INSURANCE -- 3.84%
  American International Group,
    Inc. .............................      10,000     1,082,500
  Equifax, Inc. ......................      12,500       382,813
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,465,313
LEISURE TIME & RECREATION -- 1.36%
  International Game Technology.......      28,500       520,125
MERCHANDISING -- 2.82%
  Nike, Inc. Class B..................      12,500       746,875
  9 West Group, Inc.(a)...............       3,000       139,125
  TJX Companies, Inc. ................       4,000       189,500
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,075,500
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       48
<PAGE>   218
 
                            JNL/ALGER GROWTH SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
OIL -- 2.29%
  BJ Services Co.(a)..................       3,800   $   193,800
  Schlumberger Ltd. ..................       5,000       499,375
  Smith International, Inc.(a)........       4,000       179,500
                                                     -----------
                                                         872,675
RETAIL -- 5.66%
  Dollar General Corp. ...............       7,000       224,000
  Gucci Group N V.....................       7,600       485,450
  Home Depot, Inc. ...................      19,500       977,438
  Office Max, Inc.(a).................      25,800       274,125
  Rite Aid Corp. .....................       5,000       198,750
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,159,763
SERVICE INDUSTRIES -- 3.49%
  Loewen Group, Inc. .................      13,200       516,450
  Service Corp. International.........      29,000       812,000
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,328,450
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 5.51%
  Ascend Communications, Inc.(a)......       6,100       378,962
  Cascade Communications Co.(a).......       4,400       242,550
  LCI International, Inc.(a)..........       4,700       101,050
  Nokia Corp..........................       4,100       236,263
  Pairgain Technologies, Inc. (a).....       4,400       133,925
  Qualcomm, Inc. (a)..................       5,000       199,375
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras SA --
    ADR...............................       6,400       489,600
  WorldCom, Inc.(a)...................      12,300       320,569
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,102,294
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
TEXTILES -- 0.97%
  Cintas Corp. .......................       6,300   $   370,125
WASTE DISPOSAL -- 2.26%
  United Waste Systems, Inc.(a).......       8,800       302,500
  USA Waste Services, Inc.(a).........      17,500       557,812
                                                     -----------
                                                         860,312
                                                     -----------
    Total Common Stocks
      (cost $32,375,066)..............                36,039,750
                                                     -----------


                                        PRINCIPAL
                                          AMOUNT
                                        ----------
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- 5.51%
- --------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 4.47%
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%(b)..........................  $1,703,214     1,703,214
U.S. TREASURY BILLS -- 1.04%
  4.80%, 02/20/1997...................     400,000       397,333
                                                     -----------
    Total Short-Term Investments
      (cost $2,100,547)...............                 2,100,547
                                                     -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $34,475,613)..................               $38,140,297
                                                     ===========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
(b) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       49
<PAGE>   219
 
                          JNL/EAGLE CORE EQUITY SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 96.42%
- ---------------------------------------
APPAREL & TEXTILES -- 0.57%
  Intimate Brands, Inc. ...............      600     $   10,200
AUTOMOBILES -- 0.53%
  Ford Motor Co. ......................      300          9,562
BANKS -- 2.79%
  BankAmerica Corp. ...................      200         19,950
  Mellon Bank Corp. ...................      150         10,650
  NationsBank Corp. ...................      200         19,550
                                                     ----------
                                                         50,150
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION -- 0.38%
  Harsco Corp. ........................      100          6,850
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 4.18%
  CUC International Inc.(a)............      850         20,187
  First Data Corp. ....................      500         18,250
  Omnicom Group........................      800         36,600
                                                     ----------
                                                         75,037
COMPUTERS AND BUSINESS EQUIPMENT -- 3.02%
  Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)...............      300         19,088
  Hewlett Packard Co. .................      700         35,175
                                                     ----------
                                                         54,263
DOMESTIC OIL -- 1.95%
  Ashland, Inc. .......................      800         35,100
DRUGS & HEALTH CARE -- 6.44%
  Abbott Laboratories..................      200         10,150
  Johnson & Johnson....................      500         24,875
  Lilly Eli & Co.......................      300         21,900
  Merck & Co., Inc. ...................      300         23,775
  Pfizer, Inc. ........................      300         24,862
  SmithKline Beecham PLC...............      150         10,200
                                                     ----------
                                                        115,762
ELECTRIC UTILITIES -- 4.76%
  FPL Group, Inc. .....................      250         11,500
  Nipsco Industries, Inc. .............      300         11,888
  Pacificorp...........................    1,500         30,750
  Teco Energy, Inc. ...................    1,300         31,363
                                                     ----------
                                                         85,501
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT -- 8.15%
  Atmel Corp.(a).......................    1,000         33,125
  General Electric Co. ................      400         39,550
  Philips Electronics NV...............    1,000         40,000
  Westinghouse Electric Corp. .........    1,700         33,787
                                                     ----------
                                                        146,462
ELECTRONICS -- 4.20%
  Ericsson L M Tel Co. ................      700         21,131
  General Motors Corp. Series E........      500         28,125
  Intel Corp. .........................      200         26,188
                                                     ----------
                                                         75,444
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 7.09%
  American Express Corp................      300         16,950
  Chase Manhattan Corp.................      400         35,700
  Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. ....      200         22,025
  Federal National Mortgage
    Association........................      600         22,350
  Travelers Group, Inc. ...............      666         30,220
                                                     ----------
                                                        127,245
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ---------------------------------------
FOOD & BEVERAGES -- 1.57%
  Heinz H J Co. .......................      300     $   10,725
  Pepsico, Inc. .......................      600         17,550
                                                     ----------
                                                         28,275
GAS AND PIPELINE UTILITIES -- 2.69%
  American Water Works, Inc............      600         12,375
  UGI Corp. ...........................      500         11,188
  Wicor, Inc. .........................      300         10,763
  Williams Cos., Inc. .................      375         14,063
                                                     ----------
                                                         48,389
GAS EXPLORATION -- 1.80%
  Enron Corp. .........................      750         32,344
HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS -- 1.54%
  Marriott International, Inc. ........      500         27,625
HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES & FURNISHINGS --
  1.72%
  Sunbeam Corp. .......................    1,200         30,900
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS -- 5.37%
  Black & Decker Corp..................    1,100         33,137
  Gillette Co. ........................      400         31,100
  Procter & Gamble Co. ................      300         32,250
                                                     ----------
                                                         96,487
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY -- 1.84%
  Thermo Electron Corp(a)..............      800         33,000
INSURANCE -- 3.68%
  Allstate Corp........................      400         23,150
  American International Group,
    Inc. ..............................      300         32,475
  Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. ....      100         10,400
                                                     ----------
                                                         66,025
INTERNATIONAL OIL -- 4.77%
  Exxon Corp...........................      100          9,800
  Mobil Corp. .........................      100         12,225
  Royal Dutch Petroleum Co. ...........      200         34,150
  Texaco, Inc. ........................      300         29,437
                                                     ----------
                                                         85,612
OFFICE FURNISHINGS AND SUPPLIES --
  0.58%
  Wallace Computer Services, Inc. .....      300         10,350
PLASTICS -- 1.33%
  Illinois Tool Works, Inc. ...........      300         23,962
PUBLISHING -- 0.64%
  McGraw Hill Companies, Inc. .........      250         11,531
REAL ESTATE -- 3.45%
  Cali Realty Corp. ...................      300          9,263
  Duke Realty Investments, Inc. .......      200          7,700
  Haagen Alexander Properties, Inc. ...      450          6,638
  Nationwide Health Properties,
    Inc. ..............................      300          7,275
  Rouse Co. ...........................      450         14,288
  Storage Trust Realty.................      300          8,100
  Sun Communities, Inc. ...............      250          8,625
                                                     ----------
                                                         61,889
RETAIL TRADE -- 3.83%
  Home Depot, Inc. ....................      500         25,062
  Kohls Corp. (a)......................      500         19,625
  Walgreen Co. ........................      600         24,000
                                                     ----------
                                                         68,687
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       50
<PAGE>   220
 
                          JNL/EAGLE CORE EQUITY SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ---------------------------------------
SOFTWARE -- 2.08%
  Microsoft Corp.(a)...................      200     $   16,525
  Oracle Systems Corp.(a)..............      500         20,875
                                                     ----------
                                                         37,400
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 7.53%
  AT&T.................................      900         39,150
  Alltel Corp. ........................      350         10,981
  Bell Atlantic Corp. .................      500         32,375
  Frontier Corp. ......................      400          9,050
  GTE Corp. ...........................      200          9,100
  Telefonica de Espana SA..............      500         34,625
                                                     ----------
                                                        135,281
TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES -- 1.70%
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras.........      400         30,600
TOBACCO -- 6.24%
  American Brands, Inc. ...............      700         34,737
  Philip Morris Companies Inc. ........      400         45,050
  UST, Inc. ...........................    1,000         32,375
                                                     ----------
                                                        112,162
                                                     ----------
    Total Common Stocks
      (cost $1,651,495)................               1,732,095
                                                     ----------
PREFERRED STOCKS -- 3.58%
- ---------------------------------------
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 0.65%
  Sci Finances LLC.....................      125         11,766
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS -- 0.71%
  Corning Delaware LP..................      200         12,725
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>
PREFERRED STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ---------------------------------------
INSURANCE -- 0.51%
  Jefferson Pilot Corp. ...............      100     $    9,100
LEISURE TIME -- 0.45%
  AMC Entertainment, Inc. .............      300          8,100
RESTAURANT -- 0.58%
  Wendy's..............................      200         10,400
RETAIL TRADE -- 0.68%
  Kmart................................      250         12,187
                                                     ----------
    Total Preferred Stocks
      (cost $65,149)...................                  64,278
                                                     ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- ---------------------------------------
  (cost $1,716,644)....................              $1,796,373
                                                     ==========
CALL OPTIONS WRITTEN
- ---------------------------------------

<CAPTION>

COMMON STOCK/EXPIRATION                                MARKET
DATE/EXERCISE PRICE                      CONTRACTS     VALUE
- ---------------------------------------    -----     ----------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>
General Motors Corp./January 17,
  1997/$55(b)..........................        5     $   (1,500)
 
</TABLE>


- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
(b) Security represents the only call option written in reporting period.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       51
<PAGE>   221
 
                        JNL/EAGLE SMALLCAP EQUITY SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                            SHARES     VALUE
                                            ------     ------
<S>                                         <C>      <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 100%
- ------------------------------------------
APPAREL & TEXTILES -- 3.63%
  Barry R G Corp(a).......................   6,000   $   66,000
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 2.60%
  Wackenhut Corp..........................   3,100       47,275
CHEMICALS -- 2.64%
  Tetra Technologies, Inc.(a).............   1,900       47,975
COMMERCIAL SERVICES -- 4.39%
  NCO Group Inc.(a).......................     500        8,437
  Superior Services, Inc(a)...............   3,500       71,313
                                                     ----------
                                                         79,750
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT -- 4.59%
  Ampex Corp.(a)..........................   7,000       65,625
  RMH Teleservices Inc.(a)................   2,300       17,825
                                                     ----------
                                                         83,450
CONSTRUCTION -- 8.50%
  Hughes Supply Inc.......................   2,000       86,250
  Lennar Corp.............................   2,500       68,125
                                                     ----------
                                                        154,375
DRUGS & HEALTH CARE -- 2.89%
  Angeion Corp.(a)........................  15,000       52,500
ELECTRONICS -- 5.02%
  Computational Systems, Inc.(a)..........   2,000       38,500
  Computer Products Inc.(a)...............   2,700       52,650
                                                     ----------
                                                         91,150
ENVIRONMENTAL -- 7.12%
  Envirosource, Inc.(a)...................  13,300       35,744
  IMCO Recycling, Inc.....................   6,400       93,600
                                                     ----------
                                                        129,344
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 4.24%
  Legg Mason, Inc.........................   2,000       77,000
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                            SHARES     VALUE
                                            ------     ------
<S>                                         <C>      <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ------------------------------------------
HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS -- 10.05%
  Apple South, Inc........................  3,000    $   40,500
  Bristol Hotel Co.(a)....................  2,000        63,500
  Capstar Hotel Co.(a)....................  4,000        78,500
                                                     ----------
                                                        182,500
MAINTENANCE -- 3.73%
  American Residential Services,
    Inc.(a)...............................  2,500        67,812
PETROLEUM SERVICES -- 13.57%
  Camco International, Inc................  1,100        50,737
  Marine Drilling Companies, Inc.(a)......  4,100        80,719
  Precision Drilling Corp(a)..............  1,100        38,225
  Trico Marine Services, Inc.(a)..........  1,600        76,800
                                                     ----------
                                                        246,481
PUBLISHING -- 11.12%
  Houghton Mifflin Co.....................  1,200        67,950
  National Education Corp(a)..............  5,000        76,250
  World Color Press, Inc.(a)..............  3,000        57,750
                                                     ----------
                                                        201,950
RACETRACKS -- 3.39%
  International Speedway Corp(a)..........  3,000        61,500
REAL ESTATE -- 5.78%
  Mid-America Apartment Communities,
    Inc...................................  1,600        46,200
  Public Storage, Inc.....................  1,900        58,900
                                                     ----------
                                                        105,100
RETAIL -- 6.74%
  Cash America International, Inc.........  8,000        68,000
  Ugly Duckling Corp.(a)..................  2,800        54,600
                                                     ----------
                                                        122,600
                                                     ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- ------------------------------------------
  (cost $1,603,053).......................           $1,816,762
- -------------------------                            ==========
(a) Non-income producing.
</TABLE> 

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       52
<PAGE>   222
 
                 JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                       <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 51.05%
- --------------------------------------
AEROSPACE & AIRCRAFT -- 1.21%
  AlliedSignal, Inc. .................       1,700   $   113,900
  Boeing Co. .........................       1,700       180,838
                                                      ----------
                                                         294,738
APPAREL -- 0.71%
  Nike, Inc., Class B.................       2,900       173,275
AUTOMOBILES -- 0.18%
  Chrysler Corp. .....................       1,300        42,900
BROADCASTING -- 0.44%
  Westinghouse Electric Corp. ........       5,400       107,325
BANKS -- 3.01%
  BankAmerica Corp. ..................       1,300       129,675
  Chase Manhattan Corp. ..............       1,300       116,025
  Citicorp............................       1,500       154,500
  First USA, Inc. ....................       5,300       183,513
  Mellon Bank Corp. ..................       1,250        88,750
  NationsBank Corp. ..................         600        58,650
                                                      ----------
                                                         731,113
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 1.52%
  Cognizant Corp. ....................       4,000       132,000
  First Data Corp. ...................       3,800       138,700
  New York Times Co. .................       1,500        57,000
  Service Corp. International.........       1,500        42,000
                                                      ----------
                                                         369,700
CHEMICALS -- 1.43%
  DuPont EI & Co. De Neumours.........       1,700       160,437
  Monsanto Co. .......................       4,800       186,600
                                                      ----------
                                                         347,037
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY -- 7.27%
  Computer Associates International,
    Inc. .............................       3,250       161,688
  Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)..............       6,600       419,925
  GT Interactive Software Corp.(a) ...       3,000        21,375
  International Business Machines
    Corp. ............................       2,000       302,000
  Microsoft Corp.(a)..................       1,500       123,938
  Oracle Systems Corp.(a).............       5,000       208,750
  Sun Microsystems, Inc.(a)...........       8,000       205,500
  3Com Corp.(a).......................       3,100       227,463
  Xerox Corp. ........................       1,800        94,725
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,765,364
CONGLOMERATES -- 1.46%
  General Electric Co. ...............       3,000       296,625
  Tyco International, Ltd. ...........       1,100        58,163
                                                      ----------
                                                         354,788
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 2.36%
  Colgate Palmolive Co. ..............         800        73,800
  Gillette Co. .......................       2,100       163,275
  Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing
    Co. ..............................       1,200        99,450
  Proctor & Gamble Co. ...............       2,200       236,500
                                                      ----------
                                                         573,025
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
DRUGS -- 0.94%
  Bristol Myers Squibb Co. ...........       1,700    $  184,875
  Lilly Eli & Co. ....................         600        43,800
                                                      ----------
                                                         228,675
ELECTRONICS -- 3.58%
  Boston Scientific Corp.(a) .........       2,000       120,000
  Emerson Electric Co. ...............         300        29,025
  Honeywell, Inc. ....................       2,000       131,500
  Intel Corp. ........................       2,700       353,531
  Micron Technology, Inc. ............       1,800        52,425
  Perkin-Elmer Corp. .................       1,900       111,862
  Texas Instruments, Inc. ............       1,100        70,125
                                                      ----------
                                                         868,468
ENTERTAINMENT -- 0.43%
  Disney, Walt Co. ...................       1,500       104,437
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 2.33%
  Conseco, Inc. ......................       2,800       178,500
  MBNA Corp. .........................       2,000        83,000
  T. Rowe Price & Assoc., Inc. .......       3,150       137,025
  Travelers Group, Inc. ..............       3,666       166,345
                                                      ----------
                                                         564,870
FOOD & BEVERAGES -- 2.06%
  Campbell Soup Co. ..................       1,300       104,325
  Coca-Cola Co. ......................       2,300       121,038
  Pepsico, Inc. ......................       8,600       251,550
  Seagram Ltd. .......................         600        23,250
                                                      ----------
                                                         500,163
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 4.40%
  Abbott Laboratories.................       1,200        60,900
  American Home Products Corp. .......       2,600       152,425
  Amgen, Inc.(a)......................       1,600        87,000
  Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp. ......       6,000       244,500
  Johnson & Johnson...................       2,000        99,500
  Merck & Co., Inc. ..................       2,800       221,900
  Pfizer, Inc. .......................       1,900       157,462
  Warner Lambert Co. .................         600        45,000
                                                      ----------
                                                       1,068,687
HOTEL -- 1.42%
  Hospitality Franchise Systems,
    Inc.(a)...........................       2,500       149,375
  Hilton Hotels Corp. ................       3,500        91,438
  Marriott International, Inc. .......       1,900       104,975
                                                      ----------
                                                         345,788
</TABLE>  
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       53
<PAGE>   223
 
                 JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>

 
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
INSURANCE -- 2.90%
  Allstate Corp. .....................       4,200     $  243,075
  American International Group,
    Inc. .............................       1,400        151,550
  Chubb Corp. ........................         900         48,375
  ITT Hartford Group, Inc. ...........         500         33,750
  Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc. ........       1,000        104,000
  TIG Holdings, Inc. .................       3,600        121,950
                                                       ----------
                                                          702,700
MACHINERY -- 0.98%
  Deere & Co. ........................       2,700        109,687
  Dover Corp. ........................       1,400         70,350
  Thermo Electron Corp.(a)............       1,400         57,750
                                                       ----------
                                                          237,787
OIL & GAS -- 7.01%
  Anadarko Petroleum Corp. ...........       1,500         97,125
  Apache Corp. .......................       2,700         95,513
  Baker Hughes, Inc. .................       3,300        113,850
  Chevron Corp. ......................       2,800        182,000
  Columbia Gas Systems, Inc. .........       1,500         95,437
  Consolidated Natural Gas Co. .......       2,000        110,500
  Enron Oil & Gas Co. ................       3,200         80,800
  Ensco International, Inc.(a)........       2,000         97,000
  Exxon Corp. ........................       1,500        147,000
  Halliburton Co. ....................       2,000        120,500
  Mobil Corp. ........................         200         24,450
  Noble Affiliates, Inc. .............       3,500        167,562
  Royal Dutch Petroleum Co. ..........         700        119,525
  Schlumberger Ltd. ..................       1,500        149,813
  Transocean Offshore, Inc. ..........       1,600        100,200
                                                       ----------
                                                        1,701,275
REAL ESTATE -- 0.21%
  Redwood Trust, Inc. ................       1,400         52,150
RETAIL -- 3.32%
  CVS Corp. ..........................       1,400         57,925
  Home Depot, Inc. ...................       3,500        175,437
  Lowe's Companies, Inc. .............       3,000        106,500
  Office Depot, Inc.(a)...............         500          8,875
  Petsmart, Inc.(a)...................       4,500         98,437
  Safeway Stores, Inc.(a).............       5,200        222,300
  Staples, Inc.(a)....................       7,500        135,469
                                                       ----------
                                                          804,943
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.61%
  Ameritech Corp. ....................       1,000         60,625
  Bell Atlantic Corp. ................       1,000         64,750
  Lucent Technologies, Inc. ..........         500         23,125
                                                       ----------
                                                          148,500
TRANSPORTATION -- 0.39%
Tidewater, Inc. ....................         2,100         95,025
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                           ------       ------
<S>                                       <C>           <C>

 
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
  
WASTE DISPOSAL -- 0.88%
  Philip Environmental, Inc.(a).......       3,500        50,750
  Republic Industries, Inc.(a)........       1,500        46,781
  USA Waste Services, Inc.(a).........       3,600       114,750
                                                      ----------
                                                         212,281
                                                      ----------
    Total Common Stocks
      (cost $11,738,209)..............                12,395,014
                                                      ----------
<CAPTION>                                   
                                        PRINCIPAL
       CORPORATE BONDS -- 0.11%           AMOUNT
- --------------------------------------  ----------
<S>                                    <C>            <C>
FINANCIAL -- 0.04%
  Astra (144a)
    8.750%, 08/07/2003................  $   10,000        10,150
INDUSTRIAL -- 0.07%
  Buckeye Cellulos
    9.250%, 09/15/2008................      15,000        15,600
                                                      ----------
    Total Corporate Bonds
      (cost $24,875)..................                    25,750
                                                      ----------
MUNICIPAL BONDS -- 0.17%
- --------------------------------------
CALIFORNIA -- 0.06%
  Long Beach Pension Obligation -- FSA
    Insured, 6.87%, 09/01/2006........       5,000         4,961
  San Bernardino County Authority
    Pension -- MBIA Insured, 6.94%,
    08/01/2009........................       5,000         4,962
  Ventura County Municipal Bond -- FSA
    Insured, 6.58%, 11/01/2006........       5,000         4,902
                                                      ----------
                                                          14,825
FLORIDA -- 0.11%
  Miami Beach Pension Project -- AMBAC
    Insured, 8.60%, 09/01/2021........      10,000        10,698
  University of Miami -- MBIA Insured
    Adjustable Rate, 7.65%,
    04/01/2020........................      15,000        15,132
                                                      ----------
                                                          25,830
                                                      ----------
    Total Municipal Bonds
      (cost $40,970)..................                    40,655
                                                      ----------
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES -- 36.57%
- --------------------------------------
U.S. TREASURY NOTES -- 20.20%
  6.875%, 07/31/1999..................     200,000       204,062
  6.250%, 10/31/2001..................     500,000       500,470
  5.875%, 11/30/2001..................   1,000,000       985,470
  5.875%, 11/15/2005..................     300,000       289,266
  6.500%, 10/15/2006..................   2,900,000     2,915,863
  6.000%, 02/15/2026..................      10,000         9,102
                                                      ----------
                                                       4,904,233
U.S. GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES -- 16.37%
  Resolution Trust Corporation Strip
    Interest, 6.80%, 05/25/2027.......      95,896        94,901
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.

</TABLE>
 
                                       54
<PAGE>   224
 
                 JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT COUNSEL BALANCED SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
  Government National Mortgage
    Association
    6.50%, 12/15/2023.................  $  270,829   $   259,912
    6.50%, 04/15/2026.................   3,795,555     3,620,010
                                                      ----------
                                                       3,879,922
                                                      ----------
    Total U.S. Government Securities
      (cost $8,920,638)...............                 8,879,056
                                                      ----------
MORTGAGE BACKED SECURITIES -- 1.26%
- --------------------------------------
  Countrywide Mortgage Backed
    Securities, Inc., 8.00%,
    12/25/2026........................      95,806        97,213
  DLJ Mortgage Acceptance Corp. 1996-
    CF1 A1B, (144a), 7.58%,
    03/13/2028........................      50,000        51,688
  Green Tree 1996-4 A6, 7.40%,
    06/15/2027........................      15,000        15,126
  Residential Funding Mortgage
    Security I
    6.75%, 03/25/2011.................      97,126        95,062
  TLFC Equipment Lease Trust
    5.98%, 11/20/2002.................      48,244        48,123
                                                      ----------
    Total Mortgage Backed Securities
      (cost $308,906).................                   307,212
                                                      ----------
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- 10.84%
- --------------------------------------
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 10.84%
  Albertsons, Inc.
    5.38%, 01/28/1997.................  $  265,000   $   263,931
  Amoco Co.
    5.25%, 01/06/1997.................     315,000       314,770
  Gannett, Inc.
    5.35%, 01/10/1997.................     550,000       549,264
  General Electric Capital Corp.
    5.37%, 01/13/1997.................     300,000       299,463
  Proctor & Gamble
    5.33%, 01/07/1997.................     330,000       329,707
  Receivables Capital Corp.
    5.55%, 02/14/1997.................     525,000       521,439
  Schering Corp.
    5.45%, 01/30/1997.................     355,000       353,441
                                                      ----------
    Total Short-Term Investments
      (cost $2,632,015)...............                 2,632,015
                                                      ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $23,665,613)..................               $24,279,702
                                                      ==========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       55
<PAGE>   225
 
                  JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 90.56%
- ---------------------------------------
AEROSPACE & AIRCRAFT -- 2.64%
  AlliedSignal, Inc. ..................     3,200   $   214,400
  Boeing Co. ..........................     2,100       223,387
  United Technologies Corp. ...........     3,000       198,000
                                                    -----------
                                                        635,787
BANKS -- 6.33%
  Ahmanson H F & Co. ..................     6,700       217,750
  BankAmerica Corp. ...................     2,200       219,450
  Citicorp.............................     3,100       319,300
  MBNA Corp. ..........................     5,600       232,400
  NationsBank Corp. ...................     1,100       107,525
  Republic NY Corp.....................     2,600       212,225
  Wells Fargo & Co. ...................       800       215,800
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,524,450
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 2.67%
  ADT Ltd. ............................     9,500       217,312
  Cognizant Corp. .....................     6,700       221,100
  First Data Corp......................     5,600       204,400
                                                    -----------
                                                        642,812
CHEMICALS -- 2.74%
  Du Pont E I De Nemours & Co. ........     2,300       217,063
  IMC Global, Inc. ....................     5,700       223,013
  Potash Corp. ........................     2,600       221,000
                                                    -----------
                                                        661,076
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 11.07%
  Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)...............    10,600       674,425
  Compaq Computer Corp(a)..............     4,400       326,700
  Computer Associates International,
    Inc. ..............................     5,800       288,550
  Hewlett Packard Co. .................     2,100       105,525
  International Business Machines
    Corp...............................     3,000       453,000
  Microsoft Corp.(a)...................     5,300       437,912
  3Com Corp(a).........................     5,200       381,550
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,667,662
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 2.59%
  Coca-Cola Co. .......................     9,000       473,625
  Pepsico, Inc. .......................     5,100       149,175
                                                    -----------
                                                        622,800
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 8.85%
  Colgate Palmolive Co. ...............     2,400       221,400
  Crown Cork & Seal, Inc. .............     4,300       233,813
  Eastman Kodak Co. ...................     1,300       104,325
  Gillette Co. ........................     3,100       241,025
  Philip Morris Cos, Inc. .............     6,000       675,750
  Procter & Gamble Co. ................     2,000       215,000
  Seagram Co. Ltd. ....................     5,500       213,125
  Unilever NV..........................     1,300       227,825
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,132,263
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ---------------------------------------                
DIVERSIFIED -- 0.90%
  Tyco International, Ltd. ............     4,100   $   216,787



ELECTRONICS -- 9.93%
  Adaptec, Inc.(a).....................     5,100       204,000
  Atmel Corp.(a).......................     3,100       102,687
  Boston Scientific Corp.(a)...........     3,600       216,000
  Checkpoint Systems, Inc.(a)..........     3,100        76,725
  General Electric Corp. ..............     4,600       454,825
  Intel Corp. .........................     5,300       693,969
  Perkin Elmer Corp. ..................     3,900       229,612
  Raychem Corp. .......................     4,000       320,500
  S3, Inc.(a)..........................     5,700        92,625
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,390,943
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 5.99%
  Allstate Corp. ......................     3,700       214,137
  American Express Co. ................     4,000       226,000
  Chase Manhattan Corp.................     3,600       321,300
  Federal National Mortgage
    Association........................     6,200       230,950
  First USA Inc. ......................     6,600       228,525
  Travelers Group, Inc. ...............     4,900       222,337
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,443,249
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 1.79%
  Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp. .......     5,300       215,975
  Mallinckrodt, Inc. ..................     4,900       216,213
                                                    -----------
                                                        432,188
INSURANCE -- 2.03%
  Conseco, Inc. .......................     3,400       216,750
  Equifax, Inc. .......................     5,100       156,187
  SunAmerica, Inc. ....................     2,600       115,375
                                                    -----------
                                                        488,312
MEDICAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES -- 10.02%
  American Home Products Corp. ........     3,700       216,913
  Amgen, Inc.(a).......................     3,800       206,625
  Centocor(a)..........................     3,100       110,825
  Johnson & Johnson....................     4,300       213,925
  Medtronic, Inc. .....................     3,200       217,600
  Merck & Co. .........................     8,400       665,700
  Pharmacia & Upjohn, Inc. ............     5,600       221,900
  Pfizer, Inc. ........................     5,500       455,813
  Warner Lambert, Co. .................     1,400       105,000
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,414,301
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       56
<PAGE>   226
 
                  JNL/PHOENIX INVESTMENT COUNSEL GROWTH SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ---------------------------------------
OIL & GAS -- 11.28%
  Anadarko Petroleum Corp. ............     3,200   $   207,200
  BJ Services Co.(a)...................     6,500       331,500
  Burlington Resources, Inc. ..........     2,100       105,788
  Diamond Offshore Drilling(a).........     5,900       336,300
  Dresser Industries, Inc. ............     4,100       127,100
  Elf Aquitaine Sponsored -- ADR.......     5,500       248,875
  Ensco International, Inc.(a).........     5,300       257,050
  Halliburton Co. .....................     5,300       319,325
  Louisiana Land & Exploration Co. ....     3,900       209,138
  Rowan Cos, Inc.(a)...................     4,500       101,813
  Schlumberger, Ltd. ..................     2,100       209,737
  Tidewater, Inc. .....................     5,800       262,450
                                                    -----------
                                                      2,716,276
RETAIL -- 7.51%
  American Stores, Co. ................     5,300       216,638
  CVS Corp. ...........................     5,400       223,425
  Federated Department Stores,
    Inc.(a)............................     6,500       221,813
  Home Depot, Inc. ....................     9,000       451,125
  Price/Costco, Inc.(a)................    13,600       341,700
  TJX Cos, Inc. .......................     7,500       355,312
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,810,013
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 2.86%
  Ameritech Corp. .....................     3,800       230,375
  GTE Corp.............................     5,100       232,050
  SBC Communications, Inc. ............     4,400       227,700
                                                    -----------
                                                        690,125
TRANSPORTATION -- 1.36%
  Burlington Northern Sante Fe.........     3,800       328,225
                                                    -----------
    Total Common Stocks
      (cost $21,526,921)...............              21,817,269
                                                    -----------

<CAPTION>
                                         PRINCIPAL    MARKET
                                          AMOUNT      VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- 9.44%
- ---------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES -- 0.40%
  Federal Home Loan Mortgage,
    5.23%, 01/16/1997..................   $ 97,000   $    96,789
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 9.04%
  Amoco
    5.25%, 01/06/1997..................    485,000       484,646
  Ciesco L P
    5.38%, 01/09/1997..................    300,000       299,642
    5.38%, 01/13/1997..................    255,000       254,543
  Gannett, Inc.
    5.35%, 01/10/1997..................     55,000        54,926
  General Electric Co.
    5.28%, 01/08/1997..................    420,000       419,569
  General Electric Cap Corp.
    5.37%, 01/14/1997..................    430,000       429,166
  International Lease Finance Corp.
    5.35%, 01/17/1997..................    235,000       234,441
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,176,933
                                                     -----------
    Total Short-Term Investments
      (cost $2,273,722)................                2,273,722
                                                     -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- ---------------------------------------
  (cost $23,800,643)...................              $24,090,991
                                                     ===========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       57
<PAGE>   227
 
                     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT         VALUE
                                         ---------      ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS -- 92.93%
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY -- 0.76%
  AGCO Corp. (144a), 8.50%,
    03/15/2006.......................    $100,000     $   102,625
AUTOMOTIVE & ACCESSORIES -- 5.74%
  Exide Corp., (Step-Up), 12.25%,
    12/15/2004(a)....................     200,000         184,000
  Hayes Wheels International, Inc.,
    11.00%, 07/15/2006...............     100,000         109,125
  Lear Seating Corp., 9.50%,
    07/15/2006.......................     200,000         216,000
  Speedy Muffler King, Inc., 10.875%,
    10/01/2006.......................     250,000         266,562
                                                      -----------
                                                          775,687
BANKS -- 2.40%
  First Nationwide Bank, (144a),
    10.625%, 10/01/2003..............     300,000         324,000
BUILDING PRODUCTS -- 2.23%
  Toll Corp., 8.75%, 11/15/2006......     300,000         301,500
CHEMICALS -- 2.41%
  Laroche Industries, Inc., 13.00%,
    08/15/2004.......................     300,000         325,500
COMMUNICATIONS -- 9.80%
  Bell & Howell Co. Ser. B (Step-Up),
    11.50%, 03/01/2005...............     300,000         217,500
  Centennial Cellular Corp., 8.875%,
    11/01/2001.......................     300,000         289,500
  Gray Communications, 10.625%,
    10/01/2006.......................     200,000         212,000
  K-III Communications, 8.50%,
    02/01/2006.......................     200,000         196,500
  Paging Network, Inc., 10.125%,
    08/01/2007.......................     300,000         306,000
  Rogers Communications, Inc.,
    10.875%, 04/15/2004..............     100,000         105,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,326,500
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 6.32%
  Coty, Inc., 10.25%, 05/01/2005.....     400,000         434,000
  Celestica International, Inc.,
    10.50%, 12/31/2006...............     400,000         420,000
                                                      -----------
                                                          854,000
DEFENSE -- 0.83%
  Alliant Techsystems, Inc., 11.75%,
    03/01/2003.......................     100,000         112,250
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS -- 3.28%
  Ryerson Tull, Inc., 8.50%,
    07/15/2001.......................     200,000         205,000
  UCAR Global Enterprises, Inc.,
    12.00%, 01/15/2005...............     207,000         238,568
                                                      -----------
                                                          443,568

<CAPTION>
                                         PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT         VALUE
                                         ---------      ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS (CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------
FINANCIAL -- 2.47%
  Schuller International Group, Inc.,
    10.875%, 12/15/2004..............    $300,000     $   333,750
FOOD & BEVERAGES -- 6.33%
  Americold Corp., 11.50%,
    03/01/2005.......................     100,000         105,000
  Dominick's Finer Foods, 10.875%,
    05/01/2005.......................     300,000         332,250
  International Home Foods, Inc.,
    10.375%, 11/01/2006..............     300,000         309,750
  Keebler Corp., (144a), 10.75%,
    07/01/2006.......................     100,000         109,000
                                                      -----------
                                                          856,000
GAMING -- 5.92%
  Argosy Gaming Co., (144a) 13.25%,
    06/01/2004.......................     200,000         186,500
  Aztar Corp.
    11.00%, 10/01/2002...............     100,000          96,750
    13.75%, 10/01/2004...............     100,000         106,500
  Harvey's Casino Resorts, 10.625%,
    06/01/2006.......................     200,000         210,000
  Station Casinos, Inc., 10.125%,
    03/15/2006.......................     200,000         201,000
                                                      -----------
                                                          800,750
INDUSTRIAL -- 9.44%
  Clark-Schwebel, Inc., 10.50%,
    04/15/2006.......................     100,000         106,000
  Freedom Chemical Co., 10.625%,
    10/15/2006.......................     300,000         315,000
  Norcal Waste System, Inc.,
    (Step-Up) 12.75%,
    11/15/2005(a)....................     300,000         331,500
  U.S. Can Corp., 10.125%,
    10/15/2006.......................     300,000         315,375
  Veritas DGC, Inc., 9.75%,
    10/15/2003.......................     200,000         208,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,275,875
MACHINERY -- 0.80%
  Terex Corp., (144a), 13.25%,
    05/15/2002.......................     100,000         107,750
MEDIA CABLE -- 7.69%
  Century Communications
    9.75%, 02/15/2002................     100,000         103,000
    9.50%, 03/01/2005................     100,000         102,500
  Frontiervision, 11.00%,
    10/15/2006.......................     200,000         202,937
  Jones Intercable, Inc., 9.625%,
    03/15/2002.......................     200,000         210,000
  Marcus Cable Co., 11.875%,
    10/01/2005.......................     200,000         211,750
  Rogers Cablesystems Limited
    9.625%, 08/01/2002...............     100,000         104,250
    10.00%, 03/15/2005...............     100,000         106,500
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,040,937
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       58
<PAGE>   228
 
                     PPM AMERICA/JNL HIGH YIELD BOND SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT         VALUE
                                         ---------      ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS (CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------
MERCHANDISING -- 3.87%
  E&S Holdings Corp., (144a),
    10.375%, 10/01/2006..............    $400,000     $   419,000
  Simmons Co., 10.75%, 04/15/2006....     100,000         105,250
                                                      -----------
                                                          524,250
OIL & GAS -- 5.09%
  Cliffs Drilling Co., 10.25%,
    05/15/2003.......................     300,000         319,125
  Parker Drilling Co., 9.75%,
    11/15/2006.......................     350,000         369,250
                                                      -----------
                                                          688,375
PAPER -- 3.29%
  Doman Industries Ltd., 8.75%,
    03/15/2004.......................     200,000         187,000
  Quno Corp., 9.125%, 05/15/2005.....     250,000         258,125
                                                      -----------
                                                          445,125
PETROLEUM -- 1.58%
  Nuevo Energy Co., 9.50%,
    04/15/2006.......................     100,000         106,250
  Plains Resources, Inc., 10.25%,
    03/15/2006.......................     100,000         107,000
                                                      -----------
                                                          213,250
PRINTING & PUBLISHING -- 3.28%
  Big Flower Press, Inc., 10.75%
    08/01/2003.......................     125,000         131,250
  Printpack Inc., (144a), 10.625%,
    08/15/2006.......................     300,000         312,000
                                                      -----------
                                                          443,250
RETAIL -- 1.63%
  Smith's Food & Drug, 11.25%,
    05/15/2007.......................     200,000         221,000
STEEL -- 1.51%
  Bar Technologies, Inc., 13.50%,
    04/01/2001.......................     100,000         101,500
  NS Group, Inc., 13.50%,
    07/15/2003.......................     100,000         102,250
                                                      -----------
                                                          203,750
TEXTILES -- 2.41%
  Day International Group, 11.125%,
    06/01/2005.......................     100,000         105,000
  Synthetic Industries, Inc., 12.75%,
    12/01/2002.......................     200,000         220,500
                                                      -----------
                                                          325,500

<CAPTION>
                                         PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT         VALUE
                                         ---------      ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS (CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------
TOBACCO -- 2.30%
  Dimon, Inc., 8.875%, 06/01/2006....    $300,000     $   311,250
TRANSPORTATION -- 1.55%
  Viking Star Shipping, Inc., 9.625%,
    07/15/2003.......................     200,000         209,250
                                                      -----------
      Total Corporate Bonds
        (cost $12,152,861)...........                  12,565,692
                                                      -----------
WARRANTS & RIGHTS -- 0.01%
- -------------------------------------
STEEL -- 0.00%
  Bar Technologies, Inc..............         100             550
MISCELLANEOUS -- 0.01%
  Terex Corp.........................         400           1,400
                                                      -----------
    Total Warrants & Rights
      (cost $831)....................                       1,950
                                                      -----------
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS -- 7.06%
- -------------------------------------
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 6.69%
- -------------------------------------
  American Express Corp.,
    5.90%, 01/02/1997................     250,000         249,959
  Disney Walt Co., 5.47%,
    01/02/1997.......................     250,000         249,962
  Ford Motor Credit Co., 6.00%,
    01/02/1997.......................     225,000         224,962
  General Motors Acceptance Corp.,
    5.78%, 01/06/97..................     180,000         179,856
                                                      -----------
                                                          904,739
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 0.37%
- -------------------------------------
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%(b).........................      50,656          50,656
                                                      -----------
      Total Short Term Investments
        (cost $955,395)..............                     955,395
                                                      -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- -------------------------------------
  (cost $13,109,087).................                 $13,523,037
                                                       ==========
 
</TABLE>

- -------------------------
(a) Denotes deferred interest security that receives no coupon payments until a
    predetermined date at which time the stated coupon rate becomes effective.
 
(b) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       59
<PAGE>   229
 
                      PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 99.99%
- --------------------------------------
CAPTIVE FINANCE -- 25.09%
  American Express Credit Corp.
    5.32%, 01/08/1997.................  $  250,000   $   249,741
    5.30%, 01/21/1997.................     130,000       129,617
    5.31%, 01/27/1997.................     125,000       124,521
    5.30%, 03/17/1997.................     160,000       158,233
    5.31%, 03/17/1997.................     300,000       296,681
    5.27%, 03/28/1997.................     170,000       167,860
  Chrysler Financial Corp.
    5.31%, 01/08/1997.................     109,000       108,887
    5.33%, 01/09/1997.................     274,000       273,675
    5.33%, 01/28/1997.................     250,000       249,001
    5.41%, 01/30/1997.................     260,000       258,867
  Ford Motor Credit Co.
    5.31%, 01/15/1997.................     100,000        99,794
    5.33%, 01/23/1997.................     225,000       224,267
    5.34%, 01/23/1997.................     145,000       144,527
    5.31%, 01/24/1997.................     215,000       214,271
    5.32%, 03/17/1997.................     105,000       103,836
    5.33%, 04/01/1997.................     200,000       197,335
  General Motors Acceptance Corp.
    5.45%, 01/06/1997.................     110,000       109,917
    5.31%, 01/13/1997.................     110,000       109,805
    5.46%, 01/27/1997.................     110,000       109,566
    5.32%, 02/03/1997.................     100,000        99,512
    5.48%, 02/24/1997.................     100,000        99,178
    5.38%, 04/22/1997.................     100,000        98,341
  J C Penney Corp.
    5.30%, 02/20/1997.................     300,000       297,792
    5.31%, 02/28/1997.................     191,000       189,366
    5.33%, 03/07/1997.................     190,000       188,172
  John Deere Capital Corp.
    5.42%, 02/24/1997.................     325,000       322,358
    5.40%, 02/28/1997.................     175,000       173,478
  Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.
    5.32%, 01/13/1997.................     125,000       124,778
    5.45%, 01/13/1997.................     200,000       199,637
    5.40%, 01/17/1997.................     100,000        99,760
    5.32%, 01/23/1997.................     400,000       398,700
    5.35%, 01/31/1997.................     150,000       149,331
                                                     -----------
                                                       5,770,804
COMPUTERS -- 4.08%
  International Business Machines
    Credit Corp.
    5.40%, 01/08/1997.................     310,000       309,675
    5.31%, 01/14/1997.................     450,000       449,137
    5.29%, 01/31/1997.................     180,000       179,207
                                                     -----------
                                                         938,019

<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMERCIAL PAPER (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
CONSUMER FINANCE -- 20.83%
  American General Financial Corp.
    5.45%, 01/14/1997.................  $  250,000   $   249,508
    5.50%, 01/17/1997.................     195,000       194,523
    5.29%, 01/29/1997.................     165,000       164,321
    5.50%, 01/30/1997.................     200,000       199,114
  Beneficial Corp.
    5.33%, 01/06/1997.................     165,000       164,878
    5.30%, 01/10/1997.................     195,000       194,742
    5.30%, 01/28/1997.................     150,000       149,405
    5.29%, 02/07/1997.................     250,000       248,638
    5.32%, 02/10/1997.................     150,000       149,113
  Heller Financial, Inc.
    5.47%, 01/09/1997.................     200,000       199,757
    5.45%, 01/31/1997.................     105,000       104,523
    5.36%, 02/21/1997.................     410,000       406,887
    5.33%, 04/25/1997.................     190,000       186,793
  Household Financial Corp.
    5.32%, 01/08/1997.................     130,000       129,866
    5.29%, 01/17/1997.................     320,000       319,248
    5.30%, 01/17/1997.................     130,000       129,694
    5.53%, 01/21/1997.................     300,000       299,078
    5.29%, 01/30/1997.................     150,000       149,361
  Norwest Financial, Inc.
    5.30%, 01/06/1997.................     200,000       199,853
    5.41%, 01/07/1997.................     250,000       249,775
    5.31%, 01/15/1997.................     105,000       104,783
    5.30%, 01/17/1997.................     100,000        99,764
    5.39%, 01/24/1997.................     225,000       224,225
    5.30%, 02/07/1997.................     150,000       149,183
    5.29%, 02/10/1997.................     125,000       124,265
                                                     -----------
                                                       4,791,297
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 9.67%
  Coca-Cola Co., 5.95%, 01/10/1997....     200,000       199,703
  Conagra, Inc.
    5.45%, 01/24/1997.................     100,000        99,652
    5.49%, 02/18/1997.................     150,000       148,900
    5.49%, 02/21/1997.................     270,000       267,900
  Heinz H J Co.
    5.28%, 01/03/1997.................     480,000       479,859
    5.28%, 01/07/1997.................     200,000       199,824
    5.40%, 01/24/1997.................     255,000       254,120
  Proctor & Gamble Co.
    5.60%, 01/14/1997.................     200,000       199,596
    5.27%, 01/21/1997.................     220,000       219,356
  Tyson Foods, Inc., 5.55%,
    01/08/1997........................     155,000       154,833
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,223,743
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       60
<PAGE>   230
 
                      PPM AMERICA/JNL MONEY MARKET SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMERCIAL PAPER (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
HEALTH CARE -- 6.56%
  American Home Products Corp., 5.33%,
    01/28/1997........................  $  650,000   $   647,402
  Schering Corp.
    5.30%, 01/29/1997.................     220,000       219,093
    5.32%, 01/29/1997.................     185,000       184,235
    5.35%, 02/11/1997.................      65,000        64,604
    5.30%, 04/22/1997.................     400,000       393,463
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,508,797
INDEPENDENT FINANCE -- 5.99%
  Associates Corp. -- North America
    5.31%, 01/14/1997.................     110,000       109,789
    5.38%, 01/23/1997.................     300,000       299,014
  General Electric Capital Corp.
    5.56%, 01/07/1997.................     200,000       199,815
    5.55%, 01/29/1997.................     350,000       348,530
    5.41%, 01/30/1997.................     105,000       104,541
    5.30%, 02/28/1997.................     200,000       198,291
    5.34%, 06/16/1997.................     120,000       117,045
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,377,025
INSURANCE -- 3.89%
  USAA Capital Corp.
    5.35%, 01/16/1997.................     250,000       249,443
    5.29%, 02/06/1997.................     400,000       397,884
    5.32%, 02/25/1997.................     250,000       247,968
                                                     -----------
                                                         895,295
MORTGAGE BANKING -- 4.88%
  Countrywide Corp.
    5.36%, 01/15/1997.................     150,000       149,687
    5.35%, 01/16/1997.................     750,000       748,328
    5.36%, 01/22/1997.................     225,000       224,297
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,122,312
OIL & GAS -- 6.45%
  Chevron UK Investment PLC, 5.30%,
    01/27/1997........................   1,000,000       996,172
  Consolidated Natural Gas Co.
    5.60%, 01/16/1997.................     220,000       219,487
    5.62%, 01/22/1997.................     270,000       269,115
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,484,774

<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMERCIAL PAPER (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
PACKAGING -- 1.86%
  Crown, Cork & Seal, Inc.
    5.78%, 01/15/1997.................  $  140,000   $   139,684
    5.70%, 01/28/1997.................     290,000       288,760
                                                     -----------
                                                         428,444
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 9.21%
  American Telephone & Telegraph Co.,
    5.40%, 04/07/1997.................     185,000       182,335
  Ameritech Corp.
    5.27%, 01/10/1997.................     140,000       139,816
    5.33%, 07/11/1997.................     732,000       711,300
  Bell South Telecommunications Corp.,
    5.50%, 02/13/1997.................     150,000       149,015
  GTE Corp.
    6.17%, 01/02/1997.................     270,000       269,954
    5.47%, 01/14/1997.................     165,000       164,674
    5.55%, 01/31/1997.................     360,000       358,335
    5.55%, 02/19/1997.................     145,000       143,905
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,119,334
UTILITIES -- 1.48%
  Florida Power Corp., 5.58%,
    01/08/1997........................     342,000       341,629
                                                     -----------
TOTAL COMMERCIAL PAPER
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $23,001,473)..................                23,001,473
                                                     -----------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 0.01%
- --------------------------------------
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%,(a) (cost $1,772)...........       1,772         1,772
                                                     -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $23,003,245)..................               $23,003,245
                                                     ===========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(a) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    shown is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       61
<PAGE>   231
 
                      PPM AMERICA/JNL VALUE EQUITY SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 96.17%
- ---------------------------------------
AEROSPACE -- 5.69%
  Lockheed Martin Corp. ...............     1,900   $   173,850
  Rockwell International Corp..........     4,400       267,850
  TRW, Inc. ...........................     7,100       351,450
  United Technologies Corp. ...........     3,800       250,800
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,043,950
AUTOMOTIVE -- 3.78%
  Ford Motor Co. ......................    11,100       353,812
  General Motors Corp. ................     6,100       340,075
                                                    -----------
                                                        693,887
BANKS -- 6.46%
  BankAmerica Corp. ...................     2,700       269,325
  Charter One Financial, Inc. .........     5,500       231,000
  KeyCorp..............................     6,800       343,400
  Mellon Bank Corp. ...................     4,800       340,800
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,184,525
CHEMICALS -- 4.38%
  Grace (W.R.) & Co. ..................     3,500       181,125
  PPG Industries, Inc. ................     6,300       353,587
  Rohm & Haas Co. .....................     3,300       269,363
                                                    -----------
                                                        804,075
COMPUTERS AND BUSINESS MACHINES --
  4.49%
  International Business Machines
    Corp. .............................     2,800       422,800
  Xerox Corp. .........................     7,600       399,950
                                                    -----------
                                                        822,750
DOMESTIC OIL -- 1.39%
  Ashland, Inc. .......................     5,800       254,475
DRUGS & HEALTH CARE -- 6.21%
  Baxter International, Inc. ..........     4,400       180,400
  Bristol Myers Squibb Co. ............     2,300       250,125
  Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp. .......     6,900       281,175
  Pharmacia & Upjohn Co. ..............     4,200       166,425
  Wellpoint Health Networks, Inc.(a)...     7,600       261,250
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,139,375
ELECTRIC UTILITIES -- 7.68%
  Edison International.................    17,900       355,763
  General Public Utilities Corp. ......    10,300       346,338
  Ohio Edison Co. .....................    15,500       352,625
  PECO Energy Co. .....................    14,000       353,500
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,408,226
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT -- 1.95%
  Cooper Industries, Inc. .............     8,500       358,062
ELECTRONICS & INSTRUMENTATION -- 2.02%
  Harris Corp. ........................     5,400       370,575
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 3.75%
  Beneficial Corp. ....................     5,500       348,562
  Chase Manhattan Corp New.............     3,800       339,150
                                                    -----------
                                                        687,712
FOOD, BEVERAGE, AND TOBACCO -- 7.45%
  American Brands, Inc. ...............     7,900       392,037
  Anheuser-Busch Cos., Inc. ...........     5,900       236,000
  Philip Morris Co., Inc. .............     3,300       371,663
  RJR Nabisco Holdings Corp. ..........    10,800       367,200
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,366,900
GAS EXPLORATION -- 1.91%
  Occidental Petroleum Corp. ..........    15,000       350,625

<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                          SHARES       VALUE
                                          ------      ------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
 
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- ---------------------------------------
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY -- 1.94%
  Parker Hannifin Corp.................     9,200   $   356,500
INSURANCE -- 10.67%
  Aetna, Inc. .........................     4,700       376,000
  American General Corp. ..............     6,500       265,687
  CIGNA Corp. .........................     2,600       355,225
  ITT Hartford Group, Inc. ............     5,100       344,250
  Providian Corp. .....................     6,900       354,488
  TransAmerica Corp. ..................     3,300       260,700
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,956,350
INTERNATIONAL OIL -- 3.84%
  Chevron Corp. .......................     5,400       351,000
  Exxon Corp. .........................     3,600       352,800
                                                    -----------
                                                        703,800
LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT -- 1.76%
  Hasbro, Inc. ........................     8,300       322,663
MERCHANDISING -- 3.64%
  Federated Department Stores,
    Inc.(a)............................     9,400       320,775
  Penney (J.C.) Co., Inc. .............     7,100       346,125
                                                    -----------
                                                        666,900
MINING -- 1.91%
  Phelps Dodge Corp. ..................     5,200       351,000
PAPER -- 1.93%
  Mead Corp. ..........................     6,100       354,562
PHOTOGRAPHY -- 1.66%
  Polaroid Corp. ......................     7,000       304,500
RAILROADS -- 3.06%
  Burlington Northern Sante Fe,
    Inc. ..............................     2,400       207,300
  CSX Corp. ...........................     8,400       354,900
                                                    -----------
                                                        562,200
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 6.69%
  AT&T.................................     9,200       400,200
  Sprint Corp. ........................    10,200       406,725
  US West, Inc. .......................    13,000       419,250
                                                    -----------
                                                      1,226,175
TEXTILES -- 1.91%
  VF Corporation.......................     5,200       351,000
                                                    -----------
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
- ---------------------------------------
  (cost $15,689,692)...................              17,640,787
                                                    -----------

                                         PRINCIPAL
                                          AMOUNT
                                         --------
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- 3.83%
- ---------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 3.83%
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%,(b) (cost $702,463)..........  $702,463       702,463
                                                    -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- ---------------------------------------
  (cost $16,392,155)...................             $18,343,250
                                                    ===========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
(b) Dividend yield change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       62
<PAGE>   232
 
                    SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS -- 40.37%
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES -- 40.37%
- --------------------------------------
AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES -- 1.14%
  Talley Industries, 10.75%,
    10/15/2003........................  $  150,000   $   154,875
CAPITAL GOODS -- 1.15%
  Alvey Systems, 11.375%,
    01/31/2003........................     150,000       156,375
FINANCIAL -- 5.69%
  Foamex LP/ Foamex Capital Corp.,
    11.875%, 10/01/2004...............     250,000       266,250
  Mellon Financial, 9.75%,
    06/15/2001........................      50,000        55,584
  Paine Webber Group, Inc., 7.00%,
    03/01/2000........................     300,000       302,061
  Trump Atlantic City Associates,
    11.25%, 05/01/2006................     150,000       148,500
                                                     -----------
                                                         772,395
INDUSTRIAL -- 23.59%
  Clark-Schwebel, 10.50%,
    04/15/2006........................     250,000       266,250
  Cliffs Drilling, 10.25%,
    05/15/2003........................     150,000       159,563
  Dole Foods, Inc., 6.75%,
    07/15/2000........................     100,000        99,848
  Freedom Chemical Co., 10.625%,
    10/15/2006 (144a).................     150,000       157,500
  Iron Mountain, Inc., 10.125%,
    10/01/2006........................     150,000       159,000
  Jordan Industries, Inc.,
    10.375%, 08/01/2003...............     250,000       246,250
  NL Industries, (Step-Up), 13.00%,
    10/15/2005(a).....................     150,000       129,000
  National Energy Group, Inc., 10.75%,
    11/01/2006 (144a).................     150,000       158,250
  Norcal Waste System,
    13.00%, (Step-Up), 11/15/2005.....     150,000       165,750
  Parker Drilling Co.,
    9.75%, 11/15/2006.................     150,000       158,250
  Penn Traffic Co., 9.625%,
    04/15/2005........................     250,000       140,000
  Printpack, Inc., 10.625%, 08/15/2006
    (144a)............................     100,000       104,000
  Rayovac Corp., 10.25%, 11/01/2006...     150,000       153,750
  Remington Product Co., 11.00%,
    05/15/2006 (144a).................     150,000       128,250
  Renco Metals, Inc.,
    11.50%, 07/01/2003................     150,000       156,750
  Selmer Co., Inc., (144a), 11.00%,
    05/15/2005........................     250,000       270,000
  Southdown, Inc. Ser. B, 10.00%,
    03/01/2006........................     125,000       131,875
  Stroh Brewery Co., 11.10%,
    07/01/2006........................     150,000       156,375
  Twin Labs, Inc., (144a), 10.25%,
    05/15/2006........................     150,000       154,500
  Wyndham Hotel Corp., 10.50%,
    05/15/2006........................     100,000       106,500
                                                     -----------
                                                       3,201,661

<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
PUBLISHING -- 1.98%
  American Media Operations,
    11.625%, 11/15/2004...............  $  250,000   $   268,750
TELECOMMUNICATION -- 5.03%
  Adelphia Communications,
    12.50%, 05/15/2002................     150,000       153,750
  Diamond Cable Communications, Inc.,
    11.75%, 12/15/2005................     225,000       162,000
  People's Choice (Step-Up), 13.125%,
    06/01/2004(a).....................     200,000        84,000
  Telex Communications, Inc., 12.00%,
    07/15/2004........................     200,000       222,000
  Winstar Communications, Inc., (Step-
    Up), 14.00%, 10/15/2005(a)........     100,000        61,000
                                                     -----------
                                                         682,750
TRANSPORTATION -- 1.02%
  Airplanes Pass-through Trust,
    10.875%, 03/15/2019...............     125,000       137,664
UTILITIES -- 0.77%
  Arkla, Inc., 8.875%, 07/15/1999.....     100,000       105,044
                                                     -----------
    Total Corporate Bonds
      (Cost $5,455,638)...............                 5,479,514
                                                     -----------
GOVERNMENT BONDS -- 51.37%
- --------------------------------------
ARGENTINA -- 4.40%
- --------------------------------------
  Argentina Floating Rate Bond,
    6.625%, 03/31/2005(b).............     686,000       596,820
AUSTRALIA -- 0.11%
- --------------------------------------
  Australia Government Bond, 6.75%,
    11/15/2006........................      20,000        15,223
BRAZIL -- 3.16%
- --------------------------------------
  Brazil IDU Trust -- Merrill,
    6.6875%, 01/01/2001(b)............     227,500       220,106
  Brazil C Bond (payment-in-kind
    bond), 8.00%, 04/15/2014(c).......     275,343       208,990
                                                     -----------
                                                         429,096
CANADA -- 3.41%
- --------------------------------------
  Canadian Government Bond, 6.50%,
    08/01/1999........................     330,000       251,851
    7.50%, 09/01/2000.................     150,000       118,028
    7.00%, 09/01/2001.................     120,000        93,069
                                                     -----------
    Total Canada......................                   462,948
DENMARK -- 0.67%
- --------------------------------------
  Denmark Government Bond, 8.00%,
    11/15/2001........................     480,000        90,446
ECUADOR -- 0.86%
- --------------------------------------
  Ecuador Pars (Step-Up), 3.25%,
    02/28/2025(d).....................     250,000       116,250
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       63
<PAGE>   233
 
                    SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL GLOBAL BOND SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
GOVERNMENT BONDS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------

GERMANY -- 0.86%
- --------------------------------------
  Germany (Federal Republic),
    8.25%, 09/20/2001.................  $   40,000   $    29,761
    7.50%, 11/11/2004.................     120,000        87,177
                                                     -----------
    Total Germany.....................                   116,938
IRELAND -- 1.39%
- --------------------------------------
  Ireland Government Bond,
    6.25%, 04/01/1999.................      50,000        85,197
    6.50%, 10/18/2001.................      60,000       103,355
                                                     -----------
    Total Ireland.....................                   188,552
MEXICO -- 1.93%
- --------------------------------------
  Mexico Global Bond, 11.50%,
    05/15/2026........................     250,000       262,500
MOROCCO -- 2.72%
- --------------------------------------
  Morocco Loan Participation, 6.4375%,
    01/01/2009(b).....................     450,000       369,563
PANAMA -- 1.02%
- --------------------------------------
  Panama Government Bond, 3.50%,
    07/17/2014........................     200,000       139,000
PHILIPPINES -- 1.79%
- --------------------------------------
  Philippines Debt Conversion Bond,
    6.375%, 12/01/2009(b).............     250,000       243,125
SOUTH KOREA -- 1.62%
- --------------------------------------
  Korea Development Bank, 9.60%,
    12/01/2000........................     200,000       220,222
UNITED STATES -- 26.02%
- --------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES -- 7.50%
  Federal Home Loan Mortgage Company
    10.00%, 05/15/2020................      49,212        52,796
    6.50%, 10/01/2026(e)..............     300,000       286,779
  Federal National Mortgage
    Association
    13.00%, 11/01/2015................      12,339        14,571
    10.40%, 04/25/2019................      80,186        86,501
    7.00%, 03/01/2026(e)..............     300,000       293,343
    6.50%, 02/01/2026.................     297,604       283,839
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,017,829
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>           <C>
GOVERNMENT BONDS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. TREASURY NOTES -- 18.52%
  U.S. Treasury Note
    5.00%, 01/31/1998.................  $  300,000   $   297,890
    5.625%, 02/28/2001................     650,000       637,104
    6.25%, 04/30/2001.................     300,000       300,657
    6.50%, 08/31/2001.................     150,000       151,641
    5.875%, 11/15/2005................     275,000       265,161
    6.875%, 05/15/2006................     190,000       195,789
    7.00%, 07/15/2006.................      50,000        51,946
    6.75%, 08/15/2026.................      60,000        60,450
    6.50%, 10/15/2026.................     550,000       553,008
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,513,646
                                                     -----------
      Total United States.............                 3,531,475
                                                     -----------
VENEZUELA -- 1.41%
- --------------------------------------
  Republic of Venezuela-Par, 6.75%,
    03/31/2020........................     250,000       190,938
                                                     -----------
      Total Government Bonds
        (Cost $6,793,608).............                 6,973,096
                                                     -----------
WARRANTS -- 0.00%
- --------------------------------------
VENEZUELA -- 0.00%
  Republic of Venezuela Warrants (cost
    $0)...............................       1,250       --
                                                     -----------
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS -- 8.26%
- --------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 0.00%
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%(f)..........................         496           496
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS -- 8.26%
  Repurchase Agreement with J P
    Morgan, 6.60% (Collateralized by
    $933,000 U.S. Treasury Bond 8.50%
    due 02/15/20, market value --
    $1,179,661), acquired on 12/31/96,
    due 01/02/97......................   1,121,000     1,121,000
                                                     -----------
      Total Short Term Investments
        (Cost $1,121,496).............                 1,121,496
                                                     -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (Cost $13,370,742)..................               $13,574,106
                                                     ===========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Denotes deferred interest security that receives no coupon payments until a
    predetermined date at which time the stated coupon rate becomes effective.
 
(b) Coupon is indexed to 6 Month Libor. Rate stated is rate in effect on
    December 31, 1996.
 
(c) Currently a portion of this security's coupon payment is received in
    additional principal.
 
(d) Coupon payment periodically increases over the life of the security. Rate
    stated is in effect as of December 31, 1996.
 
(e) Investment purchased on a when-issued basis.
 
(f) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       64
<PAGE>   234
 
                              SALOMON BROTHERS/JNL
                     U.S. GOVERNMENT & QUALITY BOND SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES -- 73.58%
- --------------------------------------
U.S. TREASURY NOTES -- 35.22%
  U.S. Treasury Note
    5.75%, 12/31/1998.................  $1,000,000   $   998,203
    5.625%, 02/28/2001................     500,000       490,080
    6.50%, 05/31/2001.................     100,000       101,094
    6.625%, 07/31/2001................     300,000       304,782
    6.50%, 08/31/2001.................     500,000       505,470
    6.50%, 08/15/2005.................      80,000        80,513
    5.875%, 11/15/2005................     185,000       178,381
    6.875%, 05/15/2006................     250,000       257,616
    7.00%, 07/15/2006.................     725,000       753,210
    6.50%, 10/15/2006.................     525,000       527,872
                                                     -----------
                                                       4,197,221
U.S. TREASURY BONDS -- 5.80%
    8.125%, 08/15/2019................     140,000       161,941
    6.75%, 08/15/2026.................     525,000       528,937
                                                     -----------
                                                         690,878
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY & AGENCY BACKED
  ISSUES -- 32.56%
  Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
    5.94%, 06/13/2000.................     300,000       297,141
    6.00%, 09/01/2010.................       4,465         4,333
    11.75%, 01/01/2011................       5,802         6,396
    7.00%, 07/01/2011.................     127,812       127,732
    8.25%, 04/01/2017.................     496,983       513,950
  Federal National Mortgage
    Association
    14.50%, 11/01/2014................      11,225        13,845
    12.50%, 08/01/2015................       7,833         9,201
    12.50%, 09/01/2015................      28,513        33,494
    13.00%, 11/15/2015................      26,078        30,797
    12.00%, 01/01/2016................      26,999        31,209
    11.50%, 04/01/2019................       8,665         9,880
    11.50%, 02/01/2020................      39,814        45,401
    10.50%, 08/01/2020................     160,644       176,709
    7.00%, 08/01/2025(a)..............     100,000        97,781
    6.50%, 03/01/2026.................     440,611       420,783
    7.00%, 05/01/2026.................     342,833       335,225
    7.00%, 10/01/2026(a)..............     800,000       782,248
  Government National Mortgage
    Association
    13.50%, 07/15/2010................     196,013       235,996
    7.00%, 12/25/2025(a)..............     300,000       293,436
  Student Loan Marketing Association
    7.50%, 03/08/2000.................     400,000       414,436
                                                     -----------
                                                       3,879,993
                                                     -----------
      Total U.S. Government Securities
        (cost $8,708,609).............                 8,768,092  
</TABLE>                                             -----------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
CORPORATE BONDS -- 2.00%
- --------------------------------------
FINANCIAL -- 2.00%
  Associate Corp.
    5.60%, 01/15/2001.................  $  100,000   $    96,399
  Ford Motor Credit Co.
    6.25%, 12/08/2005.................     150,000       142,122
                                                     -----------
      Total Corporate Bonds
        (cost $248,223)...............                   238,521
                                                     -----------
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS -- 24.42%
- --------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 0.01%
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%,(b).........................         788           788
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS -- 24.41%
  Repurchase agreement with J.P.
    Morgan, 6.60% (Collateralized by
    $2,787,000 U.S. Treasury Bond
    7.125% due 02/15/23, market value
    -- $2,931,419), acquired on
    12/31/1996, due 01/02/1997........   2,909,000     2,909,000
                                                     -----------
      Total Short Term Investments
        (cost $2,909,788).............                 2,909,788
                                                     -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $11,866,620)..................               $11,916,401
</TABLE>                                             ===========
- -------------------------
(a) Investment purchased on a when-issued basis.
 
(b) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       65
<PAGE>   235
 
                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                       <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 93.81%
- --------------------------------------
FRANCE -- 0.53%
- --------------------------------------
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 0.53%
  LVMH (Louis Vuitton
  Moet-Hennessy)......................         630   $   175,941
HONG KONG -- 0.88%
- --------------------------------------
FINANCE COMPANIES -- 0.88%
  Hutchinson Whampoa Ltd..............      37,000       290,613
ITALY -- 0.87%
- --------------------------------------
FINANCE COMPANIES -- 0.51%
  Banca Fideuram SPA..................      77,200       169,718
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.36%
  Telecom Italia SPA..................      18,600        36,293
  Telecom Italia Mobile (a)...........      32,000        80,897
                                                     -----------
                                                         117,190
                                                     -----------
    Total Italy.......................                   286,908
MALAYSIA -- 0.90%
- --------------------------------------
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.90%
  United Engineers (Malaysia) Ltd. ...      32,900       297,018
MEXICO -- 0.61%
- --------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.61%
  Kimberly-Clark De Mexico, SA de
  CV..................................      10,200       201,486
NETHERLANDS -- 2.39%
- --------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 1.65%
  Elsevier NV.........................      12,700       214,793
  Hagemeyer NV........................       1,650       131,981
  Ver Ned Uitgevers...................       9,400       196,548
                                                     -----------
                                                         543,322
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY -- 0.74%
  Getronic NV.........................       9,000       244,483
                                                     -----------
    Total Netherlands.................                   787,805
PORTUGAL -- 1.16%
- --------------------------------------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 1.16%
  Telecel -- Communicacoes Pessoais,
    SA, (a)...........................       6,000       383,102
SOUTH AFRICA -- 0.38%
- --------------------------------------
METALS & MINING -- 0.38%
  Rustenburg Platinum Holdings........       9,100       124,484
SWEDEN -- 3.18%
- --------------------------------------
DRUGS -- 2.25%
  Astra AB -- Class B.................       4,700       226,734
  Novartis AG (a).....................         450       515,390
                                                     -----------
                                                         742,124
FINANCE COMPANIES -- 0.43%
  Kinnevik AB -- Class B..............       5,100       140,589
RETAIL -- 0.50%
  Hennes & Mauritz -- Class B.........       1,200       166,102
                                                     -----------
    Total Sweden......................                 1,048,815
SWITZERLAND -- 0.35%
- --------------------------------------
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY -- 0.35%
  Sig Schweizerische Industrie........          45       113,970
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                       <C>        <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED KINGDOM -- 3.34%
- --------------------------------------
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 1.21%
  Rentokil Group PLC..................      52,700   $   397,259
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 1.63%
  Tomkins PLC.........................     116,300       537,965
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.50%
  Vodafone Group PLC..................      39,000       165,033
                                                     -----------
    Total United Kingdom..............                 1,100,257
UNITED STATES -- 79.22%
- --------------------------------------
AUTOMOBILE & PARTS -- 0.59%
  Exide Corp. ........................       8,500       195,500
BROADCAST & COMMUNICATIONS -- 1.52%
  Walt Disney Co. ....................       7,200       501,300
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 2.00%
  CUC International (a)...............       8,600       204,250
  Gaylord Entertainment Co. ..........      15,035       343,926
  Sabre Group Holdings, Inc., (a).....       4,000       111,500
                                                     -----------
                                                         659,676
CHEMICALS -- 0.45%
  Great Lakes Chemical Corp. .........       3,200       149,600
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 7.53%
  Automatic Data Processing, Inc......       8,600       368,725
  Cisco Systems, Inc. (a).............       8,600       547,175
  Ceridian Corp. (a)..................       3,200       129,600
  First Data Corp. ...................       9,502       346,823
  Microsoft Corp. (a).................       4,200       347,025
  Oracle Systems Corp. (a)............       7,150       298,513
  3Com Corp. (a)......................       6,100       447,588
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,485,449
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 5.26%
  Anheuser-Busch Cos., Inc. ..........       6,800       272,000
  Coca-Cola Co. ......................      18,200       957,775
  Pepsico, Inc. ......................      17,300       506,025
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,735,800
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 4.65%
  Crown Cork & Seal, Inc. ............       4,900       266,437
  Nike, Inc. Class B..................       3,500       209,125
  Philip Morris Cos., Inc. ...........       2,500       281,562
  Pioneer HI Bred International,
    Inc. .............................       5,400       378,000
  Proctor & Gamble Co. ...............       3,700       397,750
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,532,874
DIVERSIFIED -- 1.14%
  Tyco International, Ltd. ...........       7,100       375,412
DRUGS -- 4.52%
  Amgen, Inc. (a).....................       7,300       396,937
  Biogen, Inc. (a)....................       6,800       263,500
  Cardinal Health, Inc. ..............       6,900       401,925
  Merck & Co., Inc. ..................       5,400       427,950
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,490,312
</TABLE>   
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       66
<PAGE>   236
 
                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
 
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
ELECTRONICS -- 8.38%
  Electronic Data Systems Corp. ......       6,800   $   294,100
  General Electric Co. ...............      10,800     1,067,850
  Hewlett Packard Co. ................       6,300       316,575
  Intel Corp. ........................       6,300       824,907
  Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
    (a)...............................       2,900       125,425
  Xilinx, Inc. (a)....................       3,700       136,206
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,765,063
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 6.98%
  Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. ...       9,900     1,090,238
  Federal National Mortgage
    Association.......................      25,400       946,150
  Green Tree Financial Corp. .........       6,900       266,513
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,302,901
FOOD SERVICE -- 0.75%
  McDonald's Corp. ...................       5,500       248,875
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 5.49%
  Johnson & Johnson...................      12,500       621,875
  Pfizer, Inc. .......................       6,200       513,825
  Warner-Lambert Co. .................       9,000       675,000
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,810,700
INSURANCE -- 6.77%
  Ace Limited.........................       5,400       324,675
  Fairfax Financial Holding...........         850       180,019
  Partner Re Holdings Limited.........      13,700       465,800
  Traveler's/Aetna Property Casualty
    Corp. ............................      19,400       686,275
  UNUM Corp. .........................       8,000       578,000
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,234,769
MEDICAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES -- 5.69%
  Boston Scientific Corp. (a).........       2,600       156,000
  Columbia / HCA Health Corp. ........       9,200       374,900
  Genentech, Inc. (a).................       8,900       477,262
  Medtronic, Inc. ....................       3,500       238,000
  Tag Heuer International, SA (a).....      39,100       630,488
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,876,650
MERCHANDISING -- 1.01%
  Tupperware Corp. ...................       6,200       332,475
METALS & MINING -- 1.09%
  Barrick Gold Corp...................       9,100       261,625
  Pohang Iron & Steel Co. -- ADR......         800        16,200
  Rustenburg Platinum Holdings........       6,008        82,204
                                                     -----------
                                                         360,029
OIL & GAS -- 2.00%
  Royal Dutch Petroleum Co. -- ADR....       1,700       290,275
  Western Atlas, Inc. (a).............       5,200       368,550
                                                     -----------
                                                         658,825
PACKAGED FOOD -- 0.95%
  Heinz H J Co. ......................       8,800       314,600
PRINTING & PUBLISHING -- 0.93%
  Reuters Holdings PLC -- ADR.........       4,000       306,000
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                          SHARES        VALUE
                                          ------       ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
RETAIL -- 6.66%
  American Stores Co..................       5,000   $   204,375
  Circuit City Stores, Inc. ..........      11,000       331,375
  Gucci Group N V.....................       1,700       108,587
  Hasbro, Inc. .......................       6,900       268,238
  Home Depot, Inc. ...................       6,400       320,800
  Revco D.S., Inc. (a)................      17,800       658,600
  Walmart Stores, Inc. ...............      13,300       304,237
                                                     -----------
                                                       2,196,212
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 3.15%
  Compania Anon Nacional Telecom De
    Venezuela -- ADR (a)..............       7,100       199,688
  Grupo Iusacell S.A. -- ADR (a)......       1,900        14,488
  Grupo Iusacell S.A. DE CV (a).......      36,300       208,725
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras
    Telebras SA -- ADR................       3,400       260,100
  Vodafone Group PLC -- ADR...........       8,600       355,825
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,038,826
TRANSPORTATION -- 0.86%
  Tranz Rail Holdings -- ADR (a)......      16,100       284,769
WHOLESALE -- 0.85%
  Alco Standard Corp. (a).............       5,400       278,775
                                                     -----------
    Total United States...............                26,135,392
                                                     -----------
      Total Common Stock
        (cost $26,952,849)............                30,945,791
                                                     -----------
<CAPTION>
                                       PRINCIPAL
                                          AMOUNT
                                        ----------
<S>                                    <C>           <C> 
CORPORATE BONDS -- 0.19%
- --------------------------------------
INDUSTRIAL -- 0.19%
  Reliance Industries Ltd. Convertible
  B, 3.50%, 11/03/1999, convertible 
  until 10/03/1999....................  $   60,000        63,381
                                                      ----------
    Total Corporate Bonds
      (cost $61,666)..................                    63,381
                                                      ----------
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- 6.00%
- --------------------------------------
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- 5.22%
  Abbott Laboratories
    6.15%, 01/03/1997.................   1,260,000     1,259,569
  Ciesco L P
    5.45%, 02/06/1997.................     100,000        99,455
  Dillard Investment Company
    5.52%, 01/10/1997.................     181,000       180,750
  Kellogg Company
    5.38%, 02/07/1997.................     185,000       183,977
                                                     -----------
                                                       1,723,751
FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE NOTES -- 0.60%
  5.50%, 01/09/1997...................     197,000       196,759
 </TABLE>

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       67
<PAGE>   237
 
                  T. ROWE PRICE/JNL ESTABLISHED GROWTH SERIES
 
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
 
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 0.00%
  State Street Global Advisor Fund
    5.38% (b).........................  $      386   $       386
U.S. TREASURY BILLS -- 0.18%
    4.98%, 01/23/1997.................      59,000        58,820
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PRINCIPAL      MARKET
                                          AMOUNT        VALUE
                                        ---------      ------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
 
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------
  Total Short Term Investments
    (cost $1,979,716).................               $ 1,979,716
                                                     -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- --------------------------------------
  (cost $28,994,231)..................               $32,988,888
                                                     ===========

</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(a) Non-income producing.
 
(b) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       68
<PAGE>   238
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                           ------       ------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 93.73%
- ---------------------------------------
ARGENTINA -- 0.23%
- ----------------
ENERGY -- 0.21%
  Naviera Perez Compano -- Class B.....      13,430   $    94,432
  Sociedad Comercial Del Plata.........       2,790         7,144
                                                      -----------
                                                          101,576
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.02%
  Telecom Argentina STET...............       1,630         6,717
                                                      -----------
    Total Argentina....................                   108,293
AUSTRALIA -- 1.64%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.59%
  Broken Hill Properties Co............       8,043       114,562
  Lend Lease Corp......................       2,365        45,868
  Smith (Howard) Ltd...................       3,113        25,610
  Tab Corp. Holdings Ltd...............      12,000        57,229
  Western Mining Corp. Holdings Ltd....       6,000        37,819
                                                      -----------
                                                          281,088
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.27%
  Coca-Cola Amatil.....................         971        10,381
  News Corp............................      16,330        86,186
  Publishing & Broadcasting Ltd........       7,000        34,051
                                                      -----------
                                                          130,618
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.41%
  Australia & New Zealand Bank Group
    Ltd................................       7,000        44,122
  Commonwealth Installment Receipts....       7,300        45,433
  National Australia Bank..............       3,113        36,621
  Westpac Banking Corp.................      12,000        68,293
                                                      -----------
                                                          194,469
ENERGY -- 0.32%
  Australia Gas Light Co...............      14,237        81,024
  Woodside Petroleum Ltd...............      10,000        73,047
                                                      -----------
                                                          154,071
INSURANCE -- 0.05%
  National Mutual Holdings.............      15,000        22,415
                                                      -----------
    Total Australia....................                   782,661
AUSTRIA -- 0.04%
- ---------------------------------------
ENERGY -- 0.02%
  EVN-Energie Versorgung Niedr.........          60         9,032
TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE -- 0.02%
  Flughafen Wien AG....................         190         9,686
                                                      -----------
    Total Austria......................                    18,718
BELGIUM -- 0.99%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.18%
  UCB..................................          33        86,017
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.81%
  Credit Communal Holding Dexia(a).....         241        21,990
  Generale Banque......................         356       127,634
  Kredietbank..........................         730       239,288
                                                      -----------
                                                          388,912
                                                      -----------
    Total Belgium......................                   474,929
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                           ------     --------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
BRAZIL -- 0.47%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.08%
  Sider Nacional.......................     706,000   $    20,043
  White Martins SA.....................  11,320,000        16,341
                                                      -----------
                                                           36,384
ENERGY -- 0.23%
  Electrobras..........................      42,330        15,154
  Gruma SA De CV(a)....................      11,531        70,311
  Gruma SA De CV -- ADR (144a).........       1,047        25,180
                                                      -----------
                                                          110,645
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.16%
  Telebras.............................     755,750        54,185
  Companhia Brasileira De Dist.........       1,390        24,747
                                                      -----------
                                                           78,932
                                                      -----------
    Total Brazil.......................                   225,961
CANADA -- 0.29%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.21%
  Alcan Aluminium......................       3,040       103,235
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.08%
  Royal Bank of Canada.................         570        20,023
  Royal Bank of Canada.................         740        16,397
                                                      -----------
                                                           36,420
                                                      -----------
    Total Canada.......................                   139,655
CZECH REPUBLIC -- 0.03%
- ---------------------------------------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.03%
  SPT Telecommunications AS............         130        16,185
DENMARK -- 0.23%
- ---------------------------------------
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.21%
  Den Danske Bank AB...................         800        64,507
  Unidanmark...........................         670        34,690
                                                      -----------
                                                           99,197
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.02%
  Teledanmark -- Class B...............         200        11,034
                                                      -----------
    Total Denmark......................                   110,231
FINLAND -- 0.21%
- ---------------------------------------
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.21%
  Nokia (AB) OY........................       1,770       102,660
FRANCE -- 8.53%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.67%
  Cie De Saint Gobain..................       1,350       190,980
  GTM Entrepose........................         410        18,965
  Lapeyre..............................         880        50,543
  Pathe(a).............................         250        60,229
                                                      -----------
                                                          320,717
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.49%
  Chargeurs............................         250        12,383
  Legrand..............................         359        61,165
  Rexel................................         220        66,782
  Schneider............................       1,980        91,549
                                                      -----------
                                                          231,879
</TABLE> 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       69
<PAGE>   239
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
FRANCE (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 4.44%
  Accor................................         435   $    55,082
  Canal Plus...........................         420        92,767
  Carrefour Super Marche...............         705       458,722
  Castorama Dubois Investissment.......         212        36,488
  Guilbert SA..........................         598       116,984
  Havas................................         400        28,062
  L'Oreal..............................         162        61,010
  LVMH Louis Vuitton Moet-Hennessy.....       1,240       346,297
  Pinault Printemps Redoute............         893       354,205
  Sanofi...............................       1,467       145,894
  Sodexho..............................         480       267,361
  Television Francais..................       1,660       158,689
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,121,561
ENERGY -- 1.15%
  Elf Aquitaine........................       1,790       162,941
  Primagaz (Cie Des Gaz Petrole).......         755        88,909
  Total SA -- Class B..................       3,667       298,251
                                                      -----------
                                                          550,101
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.11%
  CLF Dexia............................         160        13,939
  Credit Local De France...............         244        21,256
  Societe Generale.....................         180        19,462
                                                      -----------
                                                           54,657
INSURANCE -- 0.18%
  AXA..................................         815        51,836
  Assurances Generales.................       1,086        35,059
                                                      -----------
                                                           86,895
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.19%
  Alcatel Alsthom......................       1,110        89,168
UTILITIES -- 1.30%
  Eaux (Cie Generale Des)..............       4,990       618,400
                                                      -----------
    Total France.......................                 4,073,378
GERMANY -- 3.55%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 1.62%
  Bayer AG.............................       9,116       372,033
  Bilfinger & Berger Bauag.............       1,100        40,389
  Hoechst AG...........................       1,110        52,442
  Schering AG..........................         434        36,637
  Veba AG..............................       4,685       270,968
                                                      -----------
                                                          772,469
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.30%
  Buderus AG...........................          78        38,524
  Mannesmann AG........................         238       103,162
                                                      -----------
                                                          141,686
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.91%
  Altana AG............................          31        24,134
  Gehe AG..............................       5,604       358,717
  Hornbach Baumarkt AG.................         200         6,343
  Praktiker Bau-und Heimwerkemaekte....         629        12,590
  Volkswagen AG........................          80        33,273
                                                      -----------
                                                          435,057
<CAPTION>
 
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
GERMANY (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 0.08%
  Sap AG...............................         280   $    38,121
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.45%
  Allianz AG Holdings..................          94       171,042
  Deutsche Bank AG.....................         923        43,127
                                                      -----------
                                                          214,169
MEDICAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES -- 0.19%
  Rhon-Klinikum AG.....................         900        94,164
                                                      -----------
    Total Germany......................                 1,695,666
HONG KONG -- 3.58%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.15%
  Cathay Pacific Air...................      47,000        74,135
CHEMICALS -- 0.19%
  Shanghai Petrochemical Co. Ltd.......     180,000        54,690
  Yizheng Chemical Fiber Co. Ltd.......     144,000        35,002
                                                      -----------
                                                           89,692
FINANCE COMPANIES -- 3.24%
  Dao Heng Bank Group Ltd..............      23,000       110,324
  Guangdong Investments Ltd............      94,000        90,542
  Guangzhou Investments................     194,000        92,805
  Hopewell Holdings....................     251,000       162,260
  Hutchison Whampoa Ltd................      36,000       282,759
  New World International..............      50,205       339,157
  Swire Pacific Co.....................      21,000       200,239
  Wharf Holdings.......................      54,000       269,494
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,547,580
                                                      -----------
    Total Hong Kong....................                 1,711,407
ITALY -- 1.70%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.28%
  Ente Nazionale Idrocarburi Spa
    (ENI)..............................      24,000       123,164
  Finanziaria Autogrill Spa(a).........       3,031         2,937
  Unicem (Union-Cem-March Emil)........       1,400         9,136
                                                      -----------
                                                          135,237
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.04%
  Rinascente (La)......................       3,000        17,403
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.32%
  Banca Fideuram.......................      21,040        46,255
  IMI Spa..............................       7,040        60,330
  Istituto National Assicurazioni......       8,000        10,421
  Mediolanum(a)........................       3,950        37,391
                                                      -----------
                                                          154,397
UTILITIES -- 0.09%
  Italgas (Societa Italiana II Gas)
    Spa................................      10,000        41,760
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.97%
  STET.................................      38,000       172,841
  STET Di Risp.........................      13,000        43,919
  Telecom Italia Di Risp...............      26,979        70,071
  Telecom Italia Mobile(a).............      63,601       160,784
  Telecom Italia Spa...................      10,797        15,409
                                                      -----------
                                                          463,024
                                                      -----------
    Total Italy........................                   811,821
 

</TABLE>

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       70
<PAGE>   240
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
JAPAN -- 20.85%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 5.12%
  Daiwa House Industry Co..............      16,000   $   205,854
  Denso Corp...........................      17,000       409,550
  Inax.................................       5,000        37,043
  Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha...............       6,000        14,507
  Kawada Industries....................       1,000         6,131
  Kumagai Gumi.........................      10,000        24,782
  Kuraray Co. Ltd......................      16,000       147,828
  Mitsubishi Paper Mills Ltd...........       8,000        31,293
  National House Industry..............       3,000        39,893
  Nippon Hodo..........................       3,000        34,712
  Nippon Steel Corp....................      74,000       218,530
  Sangetsu Co. Ltd.....................       1,000        20,896
  Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd.............      19,000       191,952
  Sekisui House........................      14,000       142,647
  Shinetsu Chemical Co. Ltd............      11,000       200,414
  Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.....      26,000       363,699
  Sumitomo Forestry Co. Ltd............       7,000        85,226
  Teijin...............................      36,000       157,292
  Tokyo Steel Manufacturing............       6,000        85,485
  Yurtec Corp..........................       2,100        28,469
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,446,203
CAPITAL GOODS -- 7.55%
  Advantest............................       1,100        51,576
  Alps Electric Co.....................       6,000        65,279
  Amada Co. Ltd........................      12,000        93,256
  Canon, Inc...........................      19,000       419,998
  Citizen Watch Co.....................       7,000        50,168
  DDI Corp.............................          19       125,671
  Dai Nippon Screen Manufacturing......      11,000        81,211
  Daifuku Co. Ltd......................       2,000        25,214
  Fanuc Co. Ltd........................       3,000        96,106
  Hitachi Ltd..........................      21,000       195,838
  Hitachi Zosen Corp...................      18,000        69,942
  Kokuyo Co............................       7,000       172,869
  Komatsu Ltd..........................      18,000       147,656
  Komori Corp..........................       5,000       106,208
  Kyocera Corp.........................       6,000       374,061
  Makita Corp..........................      10,000       139,884
  Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd......      54,000       428,978
  Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd.........       7,000       232,709
  NEC Corp.............................      36,000       435,196
  Nippon Telephone & Telegraph Corp....          18       136,465
  SEGA Enterprises.....................       2,000        67,352
  Tokyo Electron Ltd...................       3,000        91,961
                                                      -----------
                                                        3,607,598
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 6.44%
  Daiichi Pharmaceutical...............      13,000       208,790
  Honda Motor Co.......................       2,000        57,163
  Ito-Yokado Co........................       5,000       217,598
  Kao Corp.............................       6,000        69,942
  Marui Co. Ltd........................      12,000       216,562
  Matsushita Electric Industrial Co....      18,000       293,757
  Mitsubishi Corp......................       8,000        82,894
  Pioneer Electronic Corp..............       9,000       171,747
  Sankyo...............................      12,000       339,867

<CAPTION>
 
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
JAPAN (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
  Seven Eleven Japan Co. Ltd...........       2,000   $   117,088
  Sharp Corp...........................      15,000       213,712
  Shiseido Co..........................       4,000        46,283
  Sony Corp............................       4,500       294,923
  Sumitomo Corp........................      24,000       189,206
  TDK Corp.............................       4,000       260,772
  Toppan Printing......................      12,000       150,246
  UNY Co...............................       8,000       146,447
                                                      -----------
                                                        3,076,997
ENERGY -- 0.05%
  Mitsui Petrochemical Industries......       5,000        25,904
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 1.29%
  Mitsui Fudosan.......................      29,000       290,476
  Nomura Securities Co. Ltd............      18,000       270,443
  Tokio Marine & Fire Insurance Co.....       6,000        56,472
                                                      -----------
                                                          617,391
TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE -- 0.40%
  East Japan Railway...................          41       184,449
                                                      -----------
    Total Japan........................                 9,958,542
MALAYSIA -- 3.24%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 1.25%
  Berjaya Sports Toto Berhad...........      34,000       169,630
  Technology Resources Industries(a)...      29,000        57,185
  Time Engineering.....................      23,000        42,621
  United Engineers Berhad..............      36,000       325,005
                                                      -----------
                                                          594,441
ENTERTAINMENT -- 0.47%
  Resorts World Berhad.................      16,000        72,857
  Tanjong..............................      38,000       151,970
                                                      -----------
                                                          224,827
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.36%
  Renong Berhad........................      97,000       172,069
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 1.16%
  Affin Holdings Berhad................      71,000       195,387
  Commerce Asset Holdings..............      13,000        97,802
  MBF Capital Berhad...................      59,000        95,783
  Multi-Purpose Holding................      86,000       166,858
                                                      -----------
                                                          555,830
                                                      -----------
    Total Malaysia.....................                 1,547,167
MEXICO -- 0.43%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.13%
  Cemex SA.............................      12,063        43,443
  Cemex SA -- Class B..................       4,950        19,493
                                                      -----------
                                                           62,936
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.23%
  Fomento Ecomomico Ser B..............       4,629        15,877
  Grupo Industrial Maseca SA De Cv --
    Class B............................      28,800        36,512
  Grupo Modelo SA -- Class C...........       4,844        28,121
  Kimberly-Clark Mexicano -- Class A...       1,532        30,262
                                                      -----------
                                                          110,772
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       71
<PAGE>   241
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
 
MEXICO (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.07%
  Grupo Financiero Banamex -- Class
    A..................................      14,288   $    30,166
  Grupo Financiero Banamex -- Class
    L..................................         465           916
                                                      -----------
                                                           31,082
                                                      -----------
    Total Mexico.......................                   204,790
NETHERLANDS -- 10.20%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.21%
  Akzo Nobel NV........................         238        32,533
  Kon Pitt Nederland...................       1,407        53,705
  Otra NV..............................         670        11,526
                                                      -----------
                                                           97,764
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 6.27%
  Ahold (Kon) NV.......................       3,249       203,239
  CSM NV...............................       3,666       203,844
  Elsevier NV..........................      55,704       942,112
  Hagemeyer NV.........................         780        62,391
  Nutricia (Verenigde Bedrijven).......         550        83,623
  Polygram NV..........................       5,187       264,382
  Unilever NV..........................       1,510       267,278
  Wolters Kluwer NV....................       7,290       969,044
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,995,913
ENERGY -- 2.10%
  Royal Dutch Petroleum Co.............       5,710     1,001,772
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 1.62%
  ABN AMRO Holdings NV.................       3,528       229,683
  Fortis AMEV NV.......................       3,835       134,386
  Internationale Nederlanden Groep
    NV.................................      11,400       410,704
                                                      -----------
                                                          774,773
                                                      -----------
    Total Netherlands..................                 4,870,222
NEW ZEALAND -- 0.61%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.30%
  Carter Holt Harvey...................      13,000        29,502
  Fernz Corp...........................       5,000        17,144
  Fletcher Challenge Building(a).......       9,750        29,984
  Fletcher Challenge Energy............       1,750         5,072
  Fletcher Challenge Forest Division...      32,993        55,280
  Fletcher Challenge Paper(a)..........       3,500         7,200
                                                      -----------
                                                          144,182
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.26%
  New Zealand Telecom..................      24,000       122,503
TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE -- 0.05%
  Air New Zealand -- Class B...........       8,909        24,186
                                                      -----------
    Total New Zealand..................                   290,871
NORWAY -- 1.53%
- ---------------------------------------
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.69%
  Orkla AS.............................       4,780       330,136
ENERGY -- 0.81%
  Norsk Hydro..........................       6,890       368,930
  Saga Petroleum -- Class B............       1,190        18,469
                                                      -----------
                                                          387,399
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)                
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>          <C> 
NORWAY (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE -- 0.03%
  Bergesen D-Y AS......................         650   $    15,738
                                                      -----------
    Total Norway.......................                   733,273
PHILLIPPINES -- 0.17%
- ---------------------------------------
FINANCIAL -- 0.17%
  Phillippine National Bank............       6,900        81,987
PORTUGAL -- 0.43%
- ---------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.43%
  Jeronimo Martins SGPS................       2,000       103,154
  Jeronimo Martins.....................       2,000        33,705
  Jeronimo Martins.....................       1,333        68,752
                                                      -----------
    Total Portugal.....................                   205,611
SINGAPORE -- 2.21%
- ---------------------------------------
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.13%
  City Developments....................       4,000        36,018
  Far East-Levingston Shipbuilding.....       5,000        26,084
                                                      -----------
                                                           62,102
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.55%
  Fraser & Neave Ltd...................       7,400        76,152
  Singapore Press Holdings.............       9,400       185,407
                                                      -----------
                                                          261,559
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 1.43%
  DBS Land.............................      15,000        55,206
  Development Bank of Singapore........       6,000        81,041
  Overseas Union Bank..................      26,000       200,672
  Singapore Land.......................      21,000       116,308
  United Industrial Corp...............      22,000        18,552
  United Overseas Bank.................      19,000       211,820
                                                      -----------
                                                          683,599
TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE -- 0.10%
  Keppel Corp..........................       5,000        38,948
  Singapore Airlines Ltd...............       1,000         9,076
                                                      -----------
                                                           48,024
                                                      -----------
    Total Singapore....................                 1,055,284
SOUTH KOREA -- 0.67%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.20%
  Pohang Iron & Steel..................         700        30,237
  Samsung Electronics..................       1,000        53,846
  Yukong Ltd...........................         688        13,027
                                                      -----------
                                                           97,110
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.31%
  Cho Hung Bank........................       4,800        37,491
  Hanil Bank...........................       2,900        19,905
  Hanil Securities.....................       2,200        15,986
  Kook Min Bank........................       2,000        27,692
  Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance......          10         3,669
  Seoul Bank...........................       1,100         5,533
  Shin Han Bank........................       2,840        38,651
                                                      -----------
                                                          148,927
</TABLE>  
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       72
<PAGE>   242
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
SOUTH KOREA (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
UTILITIES -- 0.16%
  Korea Electric Power Corp............       2,600   $    75,692
                                                      -----------
    Total South Korea..................                   321,729
SPAIN -- 2.58%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.03%
  Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas
    SA.................................         144        13,421
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.09%
  Centros Comerciales Pryca............       1,524        32,282
  Centros Commercial...................         610        12,498
                                                      -----------
                                                           44,780
ENERGY -- 0.40%
  Repsol SA............................       5,022       192,641
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.67%
  Argentaria Corp......................       1,205        53,927
  Banco De Santander SA................       2,024       129,555
  Banco Popular Espanol................         684       134,350
                                                      -----------
                                                          317,832
UTILITIES -- 1.39%
  Aguas De Barcelona...................         408        16,971
  Empresa Nacional De Elec (Endesa)....       3,785       269,389
  Gas Natural Sdg SA...................         778       180,979
  Iberdrola I SA.......................      10,268       145,528
  Telefonica De Espana.................       2,160        50,163
                                                      -----------
                                                          663,030
                                                      -----------
    Total Spain........................                 1,231,704
SWEDEN -- 2.66%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.07%
  Stora Kopparbergs Bergsl AB..........       2,500        34,091
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.54%
  Atlas Copco AB -- Class B............       4,770       116,104
  Sandvik AB -- Class A................         560        15,109
  Sandvik AB -- Class B................       4,290       116,373
  Scribona AB..........................         750         8,413
                                                      -----------
                                                          255,999
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 1.86%
  Astra AB.............................      10,800       521,005
  Electrolux Co. AB -- Class B.........       3,000       174,195
  Esselte -- Class B...................         560        12,399
  Hennes & Mauritz AB -- Class B.......       1,310       181,328
                                                      -----------
                                                          888,927
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT -- 0.19%
  ABB AB...............................         830        93,711
                                                      -----------
    Total Sweden.......................                 1,272,728
SWITZERLAND -- 4.34%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.72%
  ABB AG...............................         277       344,569
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 0.38%
  Adecco SA(a).........................         723       181,493

<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
SWITZERLAND (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 2.82%
  Nestle SA............................         360   $   386,492
  Novartis AG(a).......................         433       495,139
  Roche Holdings AG....................          60       466,866
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,348,497
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.42%
  Credit Suisse Group..................         610        62,663
  Schweizerischer Bankverein...........         720       136,900
                                                      -----------
                                                          199,563
                                                      -----------
    Total Switzerland..................                 2,074,122
THAILAND -- 0.39%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 0.02%
  Siam Cement Public Co................         300         9,405
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.04%
  Advanced Information Service PLC.....       2,540        21,195
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 0.30%
  Bangkok Bank.........................       8,700        84,130
  Siam Commercial Bank Public Co.......       4,080        29,591
  Thai Farmers Bank Public.............       4,200        26,203
                                                      -----------
                                                          139,924
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 0.03%
  Total Access Communications..........       2,000        13,800
                                                      -----------
    Total Thailand.....................                   184,324
UNITED KINGDOM -- 16.61%
- ---------------------------------------
BASIC INDUSTRY -- 1.21%
  Caradon PLC..........................      42,000       172,691
  Electrocomponents PLC................      15,000       118,468
  Heywood Williams Grp.................       3,000        12,232
  Laing (John).........................       7,000        33,339
  RTZ Corp.............................      15,000       241,048
                                                      -----------
                                                          577,778
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.65%
  Rolls-Royce..........................       7,000        30,821
  Tomkins..............................      61,000       282,166
                                                      -----------
                                                          312,987
CONSUMER GOODS -- 9.63%
  ASDA Group...........................      84,000       177,009
  Argos................................      18,200       239,154
  Cadbury Schweppes....................      23,000       194,261
  Coats Viyella........................      12,000        27,548
  Compass Group........................      14,000       148,707
  GKN PLC..............................       2,000        34,298
  Glaxo Wellcome.......................      24,000       390,612
  Grand Metropolitan...................      38,000       298,167
  Guiness..............................      30,000       235,909
  Hillsdown Holdings...................      11,000        37,691
  Kingfisher...........................      33,000       356,176
  Ladbroke Group.......................      16,000        63,594
  Rank Group...........................       4,000        30,015
  Rank Organisation....................      21,000       157,581
  Reed International...................      31,000       583,142
  Safeway..............................      31,000       214,031
 
</TABLE>

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       73
<PAGE>   243
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
UNITED KINGDOM (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
  Sears Holdings.......................       8,000   $    12,883
  Smith (David S)......................      19,000       101,558
  SmithKline Beecham...................      56,000       775,193
  T&N PLC..............................      21,000        62,601
  Tesco PLC............................      23,000       139,489
  United Newspapers & Media............      27,000       322,409
                                                      -----------
                                                        4,602,028
ENERGY -- 1.55%
  British Gas..........................      14,000        53,726
  British Petroleum....................      16,000       191,879
  Shell Transport and Trading Co.......      28,500       494,124
                                                      -----------
                                                          739,729
FINANCIAL COMPANIES -- 2.59%
  Abbey National.......................      36,000       471,201
  National Westminster Bank............      65,000       763,920
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,235,121
UTILITIES -- 0.98%
  Cable & Wireless.....................      31,000       259,173
  East Midland Electricity.............       5,000        56,707
  London Electricity...................      12,857       149,892
                                                      -----------
                                                          465,772
                                                      -----------
    Total United Kingdom...............                 7,933,415
UNITED STATES -- 5.32%
- ---------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.21%
  Banco De Galicia Buenos Aires --
    ADR................................       1,581        38,339
  Banco Frances Del Rio De La Plata --
    ADR................................       1,327        36,495
  Banco Latinoamericano De
    Exportaciones SA...................         477        24,208
                                                      -----------
                                                           99,042
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION -- 0.20%
  Cemex SA -- ADR......................      13,410        96,248
CONFECTIONS & BEVERAGES -- 0.26%
  Compania Cervecerias Unidas -- ADR...         530         8,546
  Panamerican Beverages, Inc...........       2,420       113,437
                                                      -----------
                                                          121,983
DURABLE GOODS -- 0.39%
  First Pacific Co.....................     111,315       144,640
  Industrie Natuzzi -- ADR.............       1,810        41,630
                                                      -----------
                                                          186,270
ELECTRIC UTILITIES -- 0.73%
  Cemig Cia Energetica Minas Gerais --
    ADR................................       2,595        88,405
  Centrais Electricas Brasileiras --
    ADR................................       3,000        53,701
  Cesp Cia Energetica De Sao Paolo --
    ADR................................       1,050        12,075
  Chilgener SA -- ADR..................         604        12,608
  Empresa National Electric -- ADR.....       1,860        28,830
  Enersis SA -- ADR....................       1,180        32,745
  Huaneng Power International, Inc. --
    ADR(a).............................       5,400       121,500
                                                      -----------
                                                          349,864
<CAPTION>
 
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
ELECTRONICS -- 0.17%
  Grupo Televisa GDR...................         531        13,607
  Samsung Electronics Ltd.(144a).......       1,650        68,269
                                                      -----------
                                                           81,876
FINANCIAL SERVICES -- 0.62%
  AFP Provida -- ADR...................         178   $     3,338
  Brazil Fund, Inc.....................         870        19,358
  Chile Fund, Inc......................       1,320        27,555
  Cifra SA De CV -- ADR................      53,603        65,503
  Guoco Group(a).......................      32,000       179,145
  Korea Fund, Inc......................         213         3,195
                                                      -----------
                                                          298,094
METALS & MINING -- 0.26%
  USINAS -- ADR........................      12,080       123,229
OIL & GAS -- 0.22%
  Enron Global Power & Pipeline
    Partnership........................         260         7,020
  Chilectra SA -- ADR..................         560        28,901
  Repsol SA -- ADR.....................         130         4,956
  Sociedad Comercial Del Plata(144a)...         500        12,802
  Transportadora De Gas Del Sur --
    ADR................................         600         7,350
  YPF Sociedad Anonima -- ADR..........       1,696        42,824
                                                      -----------
                                                          103,853
REAL ESTATE -- 0.64%
  Hong Kong Land Holdings..............     109,908       305,544
RETAIL -- 0.04%
  Gucci Group NV.......................         328        20,951
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 1.58%
  Compania Anon Nacional Telefonos De
    Vez -- ADR.........................         960        27,000
  Compania De Telecomunicaciones Chile
    -- ADR.............................         320        32,360
  Telecom Argentina STET -- ADR........         180         7,268
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras Telebras
    SA -- ADR..........................       5,422       417,443
  Telefonica De Argentina -- ADR.......       2,790        72,191
  Telefonica De Mexico -- ADR..........       5,615       185,295
  Telefonica Del Peru -- ADR...........         591        11,155
                                                      -----------
                                                          752,712
                                                      -----------
      Total United States..............                 2,539,666
                                                      -----------
      Total Common Stock
        (cost $39,621,098).............                44,777,000
                                                      -----------
RIGHTS & WARRANTS -- 0.06%
- ---------------------------------------
BELGIUM -- 0.00%
- ---------------------------------------
BANK -- 0.00%
  Generale De Banque(a)................          26            15
FRANCE -- 0.00%
- ---------------------------------------
ENERGY -- 0.00%
  Primagaz (Cie Des Gaz Petrole)
    Warrants(a)........................          15           373
 
</TABLE>

                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       74
<PAGE>   244
 
            T. ROWE PRICE/JNL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY INVESTMENT SERIES
                      SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
RIGHTS & WARRANTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
ITALY -- 0.00%
- ---------------------------------------
BANKS -- 0.00%
  Rinascente SPA Warrants(a)...........         150   $        66
MALAYSIA -- 0.01%
- ---------------------------------------
FINANCIAL -- 0.01%
  Multi Purpose Holdings Rights(a).....      86,000   $        --
  Renong Berhad Warrants(a)............       5,125         2,516
                                                      -----------
                                                            2,516
PORTUGAL -- 0.03%
- ---------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 0.03%
  Jeronimo Martins Bond Warrants(a)....         333        17,175
SINGAPORE -- 0.02%
- ---------------------------------------
FINANCIAL -- 0.02%
  United Overseas Bank Warrants(a).....       3,000        10,591
SPAIN -- 0.00%
- ---------------------------------------
UTILITIES -- 0.00%
  Aguas De Barcelona(a)................           5           208
THAILAND -- 0.00%
- ---------------------------------------
FINANCIAL -- 0.00%
  Thai Farmers Bank Warrants(a)........         525           415
                                                      -----------
    Total Rights & Warrants
      (cost $34,956)...................                    31,359
                                                      -----------
PREFERRED STOCKS -- 1.80%
- ---------------------------------------
AUSTRALIA -- 0.06%
- ---------------------------------------
  Sydney Harbour Casino................      18,000        27,756
BRAZIL -- 1.43%
- ---------------------------------------
  Banco Bradesco SA....................  10,648,890        77,169
  Banco Itau SA........................      46,000        19,921
  Brahma...............................     127,043        69,445
  Brasmotor SA.........................      82,150        22,808
  Cemig CIA Energy.....................   1,321,597        45,024
  CIM Port Itau CIA....................      73,000        25,640
  Coteminas-CIA Tec....................      55,000        17,552
  Lojas Americanas.....................     815,665        10,754
  Petrol Brasileiros...................     355,745        56,660
  Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras SA......   1,078,910        83,065
<CAPTION>
 
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                         ----------   -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
PREFERRED STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
BRAZIL (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
  Telecommunicacoes de Rio de Janiero
    SA.................................     148,000   $    18,728
  Telecommunicacoes De Minas Gerais --
    Telemig............................     158,000        19,539
  Telesp -- Tel Sao Pau Pref...........     482,405       104,457
  Unibanco Uniiao Banco................   2,036,333        66,434
  Usinas...............................  44,146,000        45,034
                                                      -----------
    Total Brazil.......................                   682,230
GERMANY -- 0.22%
- ---------------------------------------
  Fielmann AG..........................         336        10,481
  Hornbach Holdings AG.................         510        36,457
  Krones AG............................          70        25,383
  Sap AG...............................         257        35,908
                                                      -----------
    Total Germany......................                   108,229
UNITED STATES -- 0.09%
- ---------------------------------------
  Uniao Sid Minas -- ADS...............       4,150        41,915
                                                      -----------
    Total Preferred Stocks
      (cost $878,721)..................                   860,130
                                                      -----------
                                         PRINCIPAL
                                           AMOUNT
                                         ----------
BONDS -- 0.01%
- ---------------------------------------
CAPITAL GOODS -- 0.01%
    Renong Berhad......................   $   8,200         3,442
                                                      -----------
    Total Bonds
      (cost $3,288)....................                     3,442
                                                      -----------
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS -- 4.40%
- ---------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 4.40%
    State Street Global Advisor Fund,
      5.38%,(b) (cost $2,098,660)......   2,098,660     2,098,660
                                                      -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- ---------------------------------------
    (cost $42,636,723).................               $47,770,591
                                                      ===========
 
</TABLE>


- -------------------------
 
(a) Non-income producing.
 
(b) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       75
<PAGE>   245
 
                    T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
 
                            SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                           ------       ------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS -- 89.36%
- -----------------------------------------
SOUTH AFRICA -- 0.14%
- -----------------------------------------
MINING -- 0.14%
  Rustenburg Platinum Holdings...........    5,029    $    68,795
UNITED STATES -- 89.22%
- -----------------------------------------
AEROSPACE & AIRCRAFT -- 2.82%
  BE Aerospace, Inc., (a)................   18,500        501,813
  OEA, Inc. .............................   18,500        846,375
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,348,188
APPAREL -- 2.40%
  Tommy Hilfiger Corp.(a)................    4,500        216,000
  Warnaco Group, Inc. ...................   31,500        933,188
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,149,188
BROADCAST & COMMUNICATIONS -- 3.62%
  Aerial Communications, Inc., (a).......   34,700        281,937
  Catalina Marketing Corp.(a)............    7,000        385,875
  Comcast Corp. .........................   30,000        534,375
  Cox Communications -- Class A(a).......   23,000        531,875
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,734,062
BUSINESS SERVICES -- 4.40%
  ADVO, Inc. ............................   10,000        140,000
  CUC International, Inc.................   16,000        380,000
  Gymboree Corp., (a)....................   23,000        526,125
  Interim Services, Inc., (a)............   20,100        713,550
  National Data Corp. ...................    8,000        348,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,107,675
CHEMICALS -- 1.13%
  Airgas, Inc. (a).......................    5,900        129,800
  Great Lakes Chemical Corp. ............    7,000        327,250
  Petrolite Corp. .......................    1,800         86,400
                                                      -----------
                                                          543,450
COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE -- 8.84%
  Adobe Systems, Inc. ...................    5,800        216,775
  BDM International, Inc. ...............    7,000        379,750
  BMC Software, Inc. (a).................   11,000        455,125
  Ceridian Corp. ........................    6,000        243,000
  Checkfree Corp., (a)...................   14,000        239,750
  DST Systems, Inc., (a).................    5,400        169,425
  Fore Systems, Inc., (a)................    7,000        230,125
  Intuit, Inc. (a).......................    9,000        283,500
  Network General Group, (a).............   12,000        363,000
  Platinum Technology, Inc. (a)..........   21,000        286,125
  Shiva Corp.(a).........................    8,000        279,000
  Sterling Communications, Inc. .........    7,000        246,750
  SunGuard Data Systems..................   13,000        513,500
  Synopsys, Inc.(a)......................    7,000        323,750
                                                      -----------
                                                        4,229,575
CONSUMER PRODUCTS -- 1.93%
  American Pad & Paper Co.(a)............   31,000        701,375
  Polymer Group, Inc., (a)...............   16,000        222,000
                                                      -----------
                                                          923,375


<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                           ------       ------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
DRUGS -- 2.59%
  Biogen, Inc. ..........................   14,000    $   542,500
  Cardinal Health, Inc. .................   12,000        699,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,241,500
DURABLE GOODS -- 3.80%
  Alco Standard Corp. ...................   19,000        980,875
  Danaher Corp. .........................   18,000        839,250
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,820,125
ELECTRONICS -- 5.72%
  ADT, Ltd...............................   38,000        869,250
  Analog Devices, Inc., (a)..............   12,000        406,500
  Dentsply International, Inc. ..........    2,100         99,750
  Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. (a)....   12,000        519,000
  Teleflex, Inc. ........................    9,500        495,187
  Xilinx, Inc.(a)........................    9,500        349,719
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,739,406
ENVIRONMENT -- 1.36%
  Philip Environmental, Inc. (a).........   45,000        652,500
FINANCE COMPANIES -- 5.61%
  Corporate Express, Inc., (a)...........   28,000        824,250
  Franklin Resources, Inc. ..............    8,000        547,000
  Mercury Finance Co.....................   62,000        759,500
  Money Store, Inc. .....................   20,100        555,262
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,686,012
HEALTH PRODUCTS & CARE -- 7.16%
  Apria Healthcare Group, Inc. (a).......   21,500        403,125
  General Nutrition Cos., Inc., (a)......   41,000        691,875
  Gilead Sciences, Inc., (a).............   12,000        300,000
  Pacificare Health Systems, Inc. --
    Class B(a)...........................    6,000        511,500
  Quorum Health Group, Inc. (a)..........   30,000        892,500
  Sybron International Corp.(a)..........   19,000        627,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        3,426,000
HOTEL & MOTEL -- 2.52%
  Hospitality Franchise Systems, Inc. ...    9,000        537,750
  La Quinta Inns, Inc. ..................   35,000        669,375
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,207,125
INSURANCE -- 4.86%
  Ace Limited............................   16,000        962,000
  Partner Re Limited.....................   19,000        646,000
  PMI Group, Inc. .......................   13,000        719,875
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,327,875
MERCHANDISING -- 1.34%
  Tupperware Corp. ......................   12,000        643,500
MINING -- 3.28%
  Cambior, Inc. .........................   30,000        438,750
  Oxford Res Corp -- Class A, (a)........   21,000        648,375
  TVX Gold, Inc. (a).....................   62,300        482,825
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,569,950
 
</TABLE>


                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       76
<PAGE>   246
 
                    T. ROWE PRICE/JNL MID-CAP GROWTH SERIES
 
                     SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                           SHARES        VALUE
                                          ---------   -----------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
COMMON STOCKS (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES (CONTINUED)
- -----------------------------------------
OIL & GAS -- 6.08%
  Camco International, Inc...............   17,000    $   784,125
  Cooper Cameron Corp....................    9,000        688,500
  Smith International, Inc.(a)...........   18,000        807,750
  Weatherford Enterra, Inc...............   21,000        630,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,910,375
RESTAURANTS -- 4.30%
  Boston Chicken, Inc.(a)................   17,000        609,875
  JP Foodservice, Inc.(a)................   30,000        836,250
  Outback Steakhouse, Inc.(a)............   23,000        615,250
                                                      -----------
                                                        2,061,375
RETAIL -- 7.21%
  Circuit City Stores, Inc. .............   19,000        572,375
  Eckerd Corp., (a)......................    3,555        113,760
  Kohls Corp.(a).........................   13,000        510,250
  MSC Industrial Direct, Inc.............   12,000        444,000
  Price/Costco, Inc.(a)..................   29,000        728,625
  Revco DS, Inc.(a)......................   18,400        680,800
  Scholastic Corp., (a)..................    6,000        403,500
                                                      -----------
                                                        3,453,310
STEEL -- 1.55%
  Trimas Corp.(a)........................   31,000        740,125
TELECOMMUNICATIONS -- 3.04%
  Palmer Wireless, Inc. Class A(a).......   21,800        228,900
  Telephone & Data Systems, Inc. ........    6,900        250,125
  360 Communications Co. ................   20,900        483,312
  US Cellular Corp.(a)...................    7,000        195,125
  Vanguard Cellular Systems -- Class
    A(a).................................   19,000        299,250
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,456,712
TOBACCO -- 1.15%
  Consolidated Cigar Holdings, Inc.(a)...   22,200        549,450
WASTE DISPOSAL -- 2.51%
  Republic Industries, Inc., (a).........   14,000        436,625
  USA Waste Services, Inc.(a)............   24,000        765,000
                                                      -----------
                                                        1,201,625
                                                      -----------
    Total United States..................              42,722,478
                                                      -----------
      Total Common Stock
        (cost $37,680,609)...............              42,791,273
                                                      -----------

<CAPTION>
                                          PRINCIPAL    MARKET
                                           AMOUNT       VALUE
                                          ---------   -----------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS -- 10.64%
- -----------------------------------------
U.S. TREASURY BILLS -- 9.75%
  U.S. Treasury Bill
    4.85%, 01/02/1997.................... $221,000    $   220,970
    5.00%, 01/09/1997....................  488,000        487,458
    4.98%, 01/23/1997....................  133,000        132,595
    5.01%, 01/30/1997....................  375,000        373,486
    4.84%, 02/06/1997....................  331,000        329,398
    5.015%, 02/06/1997...................  465,000        462,668
    5.06%, 02/06/1997....................  293,000        291,517
    5.02%, 02/13/1997....................  165,000        164,011
    5.045%, 02/13/1997...................  185,000        183,885
    4.82%, 03/06/1997....................  240,000        237,922
    4.835%, 03/06/1997...................   56,000         55,515
    4.90%, 03/06/1997....................  365,000        361,820
    4.91%, 03/06/1997....................  255,000        252,792
    4.885%, 03/13/1997...................  327,000        323,850
    4.86%, 03/20/1997....................  448,000        443,381
    5.02%, 05/01/1997....................  351,000        345,152
                                                      -----------
                                                        4,666,420
U.S. GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES -- 0.89%
  Federal Home Loan Mortgage Notes
    5.50%, 01/09/1997....................  185,000        184,774
    5.51%, 01/14/1997....................  241,000        240,520
                                                      -----------
                                                          425,294
MONEY MARKET FUNDS -- 0.00%
  State Street Global Advisor Fund,
    5.38%,(b)............................      633            633
                                                      -----------
      Total Short Term Investments
        (cost $5,092,232)................               5,092,347
                                                      -----------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS -- 100%
- -----------------------------------------
  (cost $42,772,841).....................             $47,883,620
                                                      ===========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(a) Non-income producing.
 
(b) Dividend yields change daily to reflect current market conditions. Rate
    stated is the quoted yield as of December 31, 1996.
 
                     See notes to the financial statements.
 
                                       77


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