A method of valuation of large groups of assets using an iterative and adaptive statistical evaluation to generate asset values is described. Individual asset values are developed and listed so that individual asset values can be rapidly taken and quickly grouped in any desired or prescribed manner for bidding purposes. One method of automated underwriting includes defining clusters of financial instruments by common attributes, receiving an expert opinion of value from selected samples of the clusters, checking values for combinations of attributes and reconciling the values. A collective valuation of the assets is established by cumulating the individual valuations.