Description: This paper was published as chapter II of the 1987 Valuation Actuary Handbook. The authors discuss basic tools for analyzing cash flows, including duration, scenario testing and accumulation vs. present value approach. Discounting of cash flows is discussed including the limitations of using a level interest rate. The final section discusses discounting of interest sensitive cash flows, including a discussion of the disadvantages and advantages of duration analysis. The paper concludes that “duration analysis cannot replace traditional simulations analysis but should be seen by the valuation actuary as a valuable adjunct.”

Description: This article discusses calculating the present value given a set of non-level interest rates and a stream of cash flow emerging from that context. This is the nub of a problem that surfaces in determining the adequacy of a reserve in a manner which fully takes into account both the assets and liabilities involved.