Description: Feature article discussing the changes IFRS 4 Phase II will have on reinsurance contracts.

Description: Review of modeling of impact of proposed GAAP changes and commentary on preparedness based on company survey.

Description: This paper demonstrates that using a conditional probability approach to analyzing investment data yields investment forecast and stock option pricing models which more closely match actual market data, and it demonstrates the impact that conditional probabilities could have on CAPM beta and risk premia calculations. Reprinted from: Journal of Financial and Economic Practice, Vol. 6 No. 2 Spring 2006.

Description: From a session at the 2001 Valuation Actuary Symposium, held in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, November 29-30, 2001 Panel discussion overview of current risk-based capital RBC requirements of life insurers, as well as insight into topical issues and potential changes to RBC. Items covered include: • Recap of RBC law and RBC calculation rules • Tax impact on the factors • Common stock issue • C-3 testing • Proposed C-3 testing for Variable Annuity Guaranteed Living Benefits VAGLB • Liquidity risk issue

Description: This presentation is from session number 4, presented at the 1999 Valuation Actuary Symposium, held September 23-24 in Los Angeles. Noting that under U.S. GAAP, setting assumptions and accounting practices can have a significant impact on the earnings process [i.e., actual results, sources of earnings, and the earnings analysis process], the panelists address options available to the actuary for setting assumptions and defining practices for specific product types [both FAS60 and FAS97], the advantages, disadvantages, and practical considerations associated with each approach, and specific examples of the effect of the different approaches on earnings. Discussion from participants is included.

Description: This essay advocates that the transition from DB to DC plans won't be complete until plan sponsors offer programs of retirement income in their DC plans. The essay discusses the relevant actuarial and behavioral issues.

Description: Panelists: [1] describe the goals, purposes, and current status of the Society of Actuaries' research into the credit risk of commercial mortgages and private-placement bonds, [2] describe the theory behind the new AVR and IMR and how they function, [3] describe their use from the valuation actuary’s perspective, and [4] discuss the potential impact the AVR/IMR may have on investing and accounting decisions. Session 11 of the 1992 Valuation Actuary Symposium.

Description: Description of results from a survey of 35 insurance companies on the impact of proposed principle-based reserves for life insurance products.

Description: New Zealand is about to launch its first variable annuity with guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits. The product design is mindful of the lessons from the financial crisis in the United States, Europe and Japan.

Description: The article explores options for defined-benefit retirement plan sponsors to transfer pension risk, focusing on recent trends in the United Kingdom.