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

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

Description: An interesting article demonstrating how life insurance premiums are treated differently around the world.

Description: How including the intent and rationale of the tax law in system specifications can lead to better software system designs.

Description: This paper will examine why CSR defunding produces pricing uncertainty and how regulators can alleviate these risks when insurers price 2020 premiums.

Description: The international presence of SOA-designated actuaries is on the increase, and the International Section will be aligning many of its activities to complement those of the SOA’s International Committee while continuing current successful activities and initiatives.

Description: In the winning article in the International Section’s annual country feature article competition, the author recounts his experience of living in Zurich, Switzerland, and compares U.S. and Swiss cultural influences on health care.

Description: A brief summary of the AAE and its activities

Description: An overview of reinsurance training class provided to the Bermuda Monetary Authority (Authority) and Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (Central Bank) covering all aspects of reinsurance. Article also provides an overview of initiatives that the two regulators (Authority and Central Bank) are involved with.