Description: The article discusses the innovative integration of the SOA Research Challenge into the actuarial curriculum at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). This integration, part of the capstone course "Actuarial Theory and Practices," transforms the educational experience by focusing on hands-on problem-solving and mirroring professional actuarial work. Key topics covered include setting assumptions, understanding external environments, the modeling process, data quality, and risk management.

Description: How does mortality experience impact earnings under the new GAAP financial framework? This article discusses how to isolate key components from financial models related to decrements, as well as how to handle the changes in the financial reporting landscape including: the aggregation of insurance policies into cohorts, dynamic reserving, and the limitations imposed by caps and floors. Looking at the components of earnings, such as the present value of benefits, expenses, and premiums, and how these elements interact is critical to form a comprehensive earnings story.