Description: Exploration of sources of volatility in retiree health valuations, noting how volatility arises and might be mitigated, with discussion of valuation parameters more problematic for retiree health benefits than for pensions. Three significant influences on retiree health valuation volatility are covered-- changes in benefit level, fluctuations in cost level, and alterations in eligibility for, or duration of, benefit – and attention focused on the last two. Specific conclusions result in recommendations, which are supported by practical examples contrasting volatile measurement results with those likely from the recommended practices. Theoretical discussion includes health claim variation, health trend usage, financial economics, option pricing, discount rates, and deterministic vs. stochastic modeling.

Description: This session discussion is about the impact of Financial Accounting Standards Board FASB exposure draft, current regulatory environment, tax implications, techniques for estimating potential liabilities, design techniques for controlling liability. From Record of the Society of Actuaries Vol. 12, No. 1.

Description: This paper discusses whether the use of relatively risk-free discount rates are appropriate under assumptions of substantial continuation of plan design and greatly increasing per capita payments, when the plan sponsor can dramatically change future cash flows. From Current Pension Actuarial Practice in Light of Financial Economics Symposium, M-RS04-1.