Description: Leading enterprise risk management ERM actuaries identified the top 11 areas of risk of 2011 and will provide monthly insight on how ERM programs can be used to hedge against those systemic risks. 'A realistic outlook on the probability of impending natural disasters and their associated risks will help businesses and individuals better prepare, helping to lessen the severity of impact on the global economy while also seizing opportunities to help those in need.' From the Bubble Risk Bulletin-June 2011.

Description: Chairperson’s column discussing systemic risk.

Description: A redesign of the FSA track and the CERA credential have been underway to ensure the SOA provides a relevant and rich program of education. A final syllabus for the ERM is expected to be published in the spring, 2012 and for the FSA track in the spring, 2013. The SOA website contains more information on the pathway changes and transition rules. From The Actuary, February 2012, Volume 9, Issue 1.

Description: SOA's Continuing Professional Development requirement (March 2009).

Description: The observations and methodologies demonstrated in this article can help actuaries further analyze population mortality trends by causes of death and by socioeconomic status.

Description: This article discusses the SOA’s CPD requirements and how to attest compliance.

Description: Two responses to 'Predictive Modeling with Consumer Data' article in the Oct/Nov 2011 issue of The Actuary are critical of the proposal for using consumer data as a health insurance marketing tool.

Description: In this book review of ‘Analytics at Work: Smarter Decisions, Better Results,’ by Thomas Davenport, Jeanne Harris and Robert Morison, the reviewer notes it has attracted the attention of senior managers and executives who are interested in developing a culture of fact based vs. “gut based” decision making. The book describes the value of transitioning to an analytic based culture and how to do it. From ‘The Stepping Stone’ issue number 43.

Description: Article discussing the differences in various types of reinsurance business.

Description: Column discussing the SOA’s addition of the Decision Making and Communication Module to its exam process.