Description: The traditional defined-benefit (DB) plan is a type of plan structured to provide the greatest degree of retirement income security, designed to pay out a guaranteed retirement income for the life of the retiree (and, when applicable, a beneficiary). However, over the last several decades, the number of private-sector employees covered under these traditional plans has decreased dramatically and been replaced by defined contribution (DC) plans. In contrast, public-sector retirement plans, which are exempt from ERISA, have seen a much smaller decline in DB plans. There are many differences in the private and public sector that likely contributed to this phenomenon, but ERISA and the many amendments to it has been a major factor.

Description: In this video Steve Siegel, a Senior Practice Research Actuary at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, discusses a study focusing on the retirement planning of 35 to 45 year olds. The study explores how income, family dynamics, and other factors influence retirement decisions. Despite the importance of retirement, many participants hadn’t deeply considered it, and obstacles such as financial stress and uncertainty hindered their saving efforts. The report offers recommendations for future research and tools to help individuals better envision their retirement lifestyles. Contributors: Steve Siegel, ASA, MAAA; Rose Northon; Jon Forster ASA, MAAA

Description: In this video, Steve Siegel, a Senior Practice Research Actuary at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, introduces a report titled “What Retirement Plan Features Do Employees Really Want?” He discusses the methodology behind the research, which involved a survey and around 25,000 adults in the US using Conjoint Analysis. Siegel highlights key findings from the report, including preferences relating to retirement planning, availability of retirement plans, accessing benefits, risk tolerance, and leaving a legacy. He also mentions the Choice Simulator Tool, an Excel dashboard developed to explore benefit preferences further, and available for download. Contributors: Steve Siegel, ASA, MAAA; Rose Northon; Jon Forster ASA, MAAA

Description: In this video, Steve Siegel, introduces a report titled “Megatrends Impacting the Future of Retirement Plans.” He explains how to access the report on the SOA website and discusses its initiation during the COVID pandemic, aiming to inspire creative thinking about retirement. Siegel outlines key concepts from the reporting, including “Templosion” and “Non-Linear Life Trajectories”, which signify rapid changes and evolving life stages impacting retirement planning. He also discusses trends like “Diamonding” and “Gerontopogy” highlighting their implications for retirement and business opportunities. Finally, Steven emphasizes the ongoing nature of the conversation around retirement planning and invites viewers to explore the report for deeper insights. Contributors: Steve Siegel, ASA, MAAA; Rose Northon; Jon Forster ASA, MAAA

Description: This video features Sherry Chan a C – level executive and SOA board member. This video provides an overview of retirement plans, focusing on Defined Contribution (DC) and Defined Benefit (DB) plans. DC plans operate like personal savings accounts, with contributions from employee, employer, or both, while DB plans promise a fixed monthly benefit upon retirement. The script also discusses various retirement plan sponsors, including employers, government entities, and self-sponsors, highlighting their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, it discusses strategies for plan sponsors, such as choosing between lump sum payments and annuities, considering workforce demographics, managing administrative complexities, and staying compliant with regulations. Overall, it emphasizes the importance of understanding plan differences and making strategic decisions to ensure retirement for employees. Contributors: Sherry Chan, FSA, EA< MAAA; Faith Wilson, FSA, CERA; Susan Boyle, FSA, EA, MAAA, FCA; Robert Shriver FSA, EA, MAAA, FCAS; Jon Forster ASA, MAAA.

Description: In this video, Sherry Chan, an experienced actuary, provides insights into key aspects of retirement planning. She emphasizes the importance of understanding defined benefit plans and highlights three main categories: Single Employer Plans, Multiemployer Plans (MEPs), and Public Plans. Chan discusses the significance of ERISA regulations, crucial assumptions used in actuarial calculations, and contemporary events impacting retirement planning, such as legislative acts like the Social Act and Secure 2.0 Act. She stresses the importance of adhering to Actuarial Standards of Practice and encourages exploration of emerging trends in Retire Tech, which integrates Fin Tech and Insure Tech advancements. Chan concludes by recommending further resources for in depth knowledge enhancement. Contributors: Sherry Chan, FSA, EA< MAAA; Faith Wilson, FSA, CERA; Susan Boyle, FSA, EA, MAAA, FCA; Robert Shriver FSA, EA, MAAA, FCAS; Rebecca Janus, ASA; Jon Forster ASA, MAAA.