Description: A discussion of the recently revised Society of Actuaries Global Initiatives Policy, which covers a variety of issues including relationships with other actuarial associations, professional development issues, and education issues.

Description: A review of a webcast on Sarbanes-Oxley including a brief update on Sarbanes requirements, including some practical aspects of the Sarbanes “life cycle,” including living with Sarbanes beyond implementation.

Description: Living beyond ones life expectancy poses many challenges. Among them are financial issues. Though there are products and strategies available that retirees could use to mitigate this financial risk they are seldom used. Reasons range from high cost, lack of awareness of the available options, and general underestimation of longevity risk. This paper poses the question as to whether the federal government can provide a solution to this potential problem in a fair and cost efficient manner. Ideas are presented as well as a discussion of the pros and cons of such a program concept.

Description: Report on the second in a series of studies conducted jointly by LIMRA International and the SOA Long-Term Care Experience Committee. The study examines longterm care insurance LTCI industry persistency experience by reporting on changes in both voluntary lapse and total termination activity for all participating companies during calendar years 2002 through 2004. Overall, the results indicate that LTCI persistency continues to increase. However, recent increases have occurred on the group side of the business more than the individual side.

Description: The SOA is shining a spotlight on its research activities as it migrates into the areas of public policy and other relevant topics.

Description: This paper responds to the comments on the Total Career Benchmark Model, consistent with Retirement 20/20 principles, focuses on reconstructing and maintaining a consistent and reasonable sharing of risks and rewards amongst the four stakeholders: Individuals, Society, Employers and the Markets. Modern technology provides the necessary tools. A series of benchmarks are used for tax limits, target pensions, accrual to date etc. The self adjusting, consistent benchmarks under the TCB Model, means that all stakeholders speak the same language. Individuals and Employers can easily compare what they have to what they need – and more importantly can see how to accrue what is needed. An individual’s ability to tax shelter income over a career is not dependent on the design of any employer pension plan. All funds allocated to an individual remain the individual’s and are not used to subsidize another person – except for the inherent risk sharing of an annuity – by hidden transfers of value.

Description: Discussion about career events for an actuary working on health care reform

Description: A discussion about the increasing risks associated with the National Flood Insurance Program in the U.S., including discussion of its history as well as key issues associated with its continuation in its present form.

Description: Ideas to improve claim practices, thereby improving public perception of the LTCI industry.

Description: This document is intended for reporters and editors seeking information and thought leaders on how to clarify the complexities of retirement planning and the associated risks for the individual consumer. It provides tips and a summary of considerations and risks involved with transitioning into retirement, and includes bios for expert actuaries specializing in retirement, who are available for interviews or comment, and contact information for the Society.