Description: Feature article discussing the current International Accounting Standards Board IASB Exposure Draft ED. A model of 10 year level term life insurance is use to demonstrate the amortization of residual margin. Residual margin is to be set at issue as the amount which offsets any gain at issue that would otherwise be recorded after accounting for fulfillment cash flowd and an explicit risk adjustment.

Description: Results of an SOA survey regarding the expectation for 2015 accruals for 3Rs and cost sharing reduction payments.

Description: Summary of the SOA research project on PBR Simplified Methods. Describes the multi-risk scenario generator, central estimate assumptions, assumption objectivity measures, and regulatory demonstrations per VM-20.

Description: This article lays conceptual foundations associated with projecting investment-related discretionary elements of various life insurance and annuity products. It outlines potential implementation approaches that may be appropriate when calculations are performed in a risk-neutral setting. The article concludes that crediting rates in risk-neutral models can be projected as in real-world models, except that the modeled provision for expected credit losses should be modified to equal real-world expected losses initially, but over the projection reflect management’s evolving expectation, moving ultimately to risk neutral expected losses.

Description: The Delphi Method is discussed in detail. The method attempts to filter out the consensus bias that can result from societal forces by employing a technique whereby an anonymous collection of opinions is used, supplemented by feedback loops that can be used to influence outcomes.

Description: This article provides a brief introduction to forecasting methods that are potentially relevant to actuarial work.

Description: The author reviews the book, The Perfect Swarm: The Science of Complexity in Everyday Life, by Len Fisher. He provides his own interpretation of the power of the swarm and touts the book as a straightforward and informative introduction to various aspects of complexity science.

Description: Article explores why many integrated delivery systems are struggling and what actions they need to take to succeed.

Description: The CMS Risk adjustment model allows actuaries to apply our analytical skills and business knowledge to solve risk and revenue challenges within Health Plans.

Description: Update on Affordable Care Act topics, including Section 1332 waivers, Association Health Plans, silver loading and cost sharing reductions.