Description: We devise an approach, using tobit models for modeling annuity lapse rates. The approach is based on data provided by the Society of Actuaries’ Risk Management Task Force. Kim [2005a] models annuity lapse rates using a logit model and the same US data (he also used Korean data separately). We find that the tobit model is a more than suitable approach for all levels of the explanatory variables including interest rates, unemployment rates, and GDP growth rates. Specifically, policyholder behavior in the tail of the distribution of lapse rates is explained as well as it is in the normal range of lapse rates.

Description: This is a research report that highlights the characteristics of combination plans that serve to reduce the risks to insurers issuing life or annuity products linked to long-term care insurance. Observations are provided to assist in the understanding of the factors that explain the profit change sensitivity results and the natural hedging against major risks that inherently is present within the linked products.

Description: This report is jointly sponsored by LIMRA International and the Society of Actuaries in collaboration with Ernst & Young. It describes Substandard Annuities and discusses the market opportunity for them, underwriting, the associated risk management issues, and the issues companies need to address when competing in the substandard annuity market. It discusses the single premium immediate annuity, SPIA, in relation to substandard annuities and the differences between the products.