Description: This presentation proposes a solution to the student actuarial paradox “I mastered the syllabus but failed the exam,” by utilizing the two-dimensional syllabus vehicle which pedagogically focuses on the two dimensions of content and problem difficulty. This presentation advocates the PMR characterization of three levels of problems difficulty: Plug-ins (easy), Monkey-wrench (intermediate), and Research-type(hard) questions. PMR was developed by examining difficulty levels in SOA exams, and problems of various software vendors. The author's students routinely score high on the SOA FM exam; it is hoped that these methods will assist other instructors in their quest for good pedagogy. Very briefly: “Plug-ins,” refer to multi-part problems, for example, calculating the price of an annuity that is first increasing and then level; “Monkey-wrench” problems specifically refer to plug-in multi-part problems where one component is a monkey-wrench, an issue the candidate has not previously encountered. It might be a non-typical modeling or it might be a non-typical algebraic simplification or it might be an unexpected integration of distinct modules in a manner that the candidate has not yet seen. “Research-type questions” refer to problems requiring some type of experimentation for example, looking at initial cases, seeing a pattern and then applying methods

Description: The Tidbit discuss a Revenue Ruling IRS issued to update its position on sales of Life Insurance Contracts

Description: One major feature of the OECD's two-pillar regime is that MNEs would base the calculation of taxes due on book-based financial statements. The article provides a summary of how these rules operate along with suggested actions insurers can take today to prepare for timely compliance.

Description: In this webinar, the presenters will give a behind the scenes look at how the NAIC ESG was parameterized. They will also share the results of its most recent calibration.

Description: Leveraging advanced technologies like Generative AI is essential for insurers looking to compete and drive business growth. In this high-level webcast, we discuss the transformative potential of Generative AI in actuarial work and how it empowers actuaries to become more efficient and effective.

Description: Suited for students, newly minted ASAs/FSAs, or those venturing into the realm of reserving, as well as seasoned actuaries in need of a recap, this session is a gateway to the mysteries of IBNR reserving, unraveling various methods and assumptions. Embark on a journey through the construction of claims triangles and the crafting of completion factors, delving into the enigmatic realms of seasonality, trend analysis, and outlier claims. Harness the principles unveiled to dissect a myriad of case studies spanning diverse products like major medical inpatient, outpatient, pharmacy, Medicare Supplement, dental, and critical illness. This session is your guide through the intricate world of reserving!

Description: This article provides a brief description of the changes in the financial mathematics exam beginning in 2007.

Description: LTC insurers are beginning to implement population health programs to improve the lives of their policyholders before and during a claim. Measuring the financial impact of these programs can be difficult for a variety of reasons and multiple methodologies are used to evaluate treatments or programs. This article proposes two different methods of randomized control trials to evaluate the impact of these programs through a case study approach, along with additional potential considerations when evaluating effectiveness.

Description: The article and guidebook of the same name use a stochastic simulation model to examine potential impacts of public pension plan risk-sharing policies on government employers and plan members. Policies examined include simple policies such as COLAs and employee contributions that are contingent upon investment returns or funded ratios, and more-complex policies similar to those used in the Wisconsin Retirement System.

Description: This article analyzes, understands, and discusses the impact of the upcoming Principle-Based Reserving (PBR) on non-variable deferred annuities.