Description: The author highlights the unappreciated social challenge looming, the significant number of widows from the baby Boom generation. There are financial vehicles that address these risks but no easy answers to the added risks and expenses that women bear by having longer life expectancies.

Description: This article is the second in a two part series that summarizes a longer paper that can be downloaded from the website of the Social Insurance and Public Finance Section. Both articles take the form of a point-counterpoint dialogue addressing important aspects of social insurance programs. The first part discussed their nature, desirability and advantages, as well as whether they can form a framework to achieve sustainable inter-generational equity. This article focuses on whether pre-funding of a social insurance program can occur and can contribute to the financial security of the participants. Fundamental differences of opinion exist regarding these programs, not only due to different personal and political values, but also as a result of the viewpoint taken (for example, assessment of the program in isolation, consideration of the sponsoring government's financial situation, or the overall national economy).

Description: A discussion of the Brazilian Health Industry

Description: Discussion of the development of the Russian insurance industry and market opportunities

Description: Discussion of Ley 100/Law 100 in Colombia, which was ratified in 1993 and linked the government pension plan with a government-sponsored and controlled yet, privatized health plan.

Description: Hubert Mueller describes why unit-linked products are increasingly popular in Europe and provides his outlook for continued growth.