Description: The article summarizes 2013 survey results of company assumptions for term products in the post-level period. The focus is on product design, shock lapse assumptions, and mortality deterioration assumptions. This article features highlights from the larger SOA-sponsored research project on this topic published in 2013 that compiled end-of-2012 assumption data from 41 companies. This content may prove useful to product development actuaries as they consider their current post-level term assumptions.

Description: In this article, we discuss the future of wearable technology in life insurance. Evidence from recent research shows that low levels of physical activity, as measured by steps per day indicate much higher mortality risk while higher levels of activity correspond with lower risk. The article shares insights of how insurers can use wearables to innovate by improving the customer journey, expanding insurability, engaging customers, promoting healthy lifestyles and improving risk assessment. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and considerations when using new data and technology to ensure success.

Description: The current coronavirus pandemic has caused a number of challenges for life insurers and this article summarizes the operational challenges, namely in two areas. First, the article will discuss the challenges companies are facing to collect traditional underwriting evidence and potential short-term solutions used to overcome these limitations. Second, the actions companies are taking to alleviate the financial difficulties customers may have paying premiums will be addressed.

Description: Long-term guarantees place unanticipated burdens on companies because of the degree to which the environment can change. These risks are compounded when combined with estimation of policyholder behavior, especially when solid experience data is not available. When risks are properly reflected, long-term guarantees do not always provide value to the customer in excess of the manufacturing cost. The product development actuary is challenged to compare customer value to company cost and use that measurement to identify novel ways to design products to better serve customers.

Description: This article delves into the transformative realm of Business Intelligence (BI) tools. We explore the fundamental functionality and structure of these tools, and through case studies illustrate how they offer valuable insights into carrier experience and underwriting dynamics. From real-time data visualization to in-depth data analysis, discover the essential features that empower businesses to make better informed decisions.

Description: Part 2 of the article continues providing data on why IUL income streams need to be managed and suggests techniques that insurance companies could provide to policyholders and advisors to do so. The author also offers his research data free of charge to any actuary who contacts him to request it.

Description: Discussion of the dangers of a product development process which places too much emphasis on the mathematical contribution of actuaries to the process.