Description: This article is about variable annuity products in Japan. Topics covered are the history of variable annuities, product and risk management, distribution, the regulatory environment and the market outlook.

Description: The Actuary recently asked Bob Smyth of Gant Travel Management some questions regarding international travel. Smyth says if you plan well and are up to date on new regulations and passport requirements, traveling abroad is smooth sailing.

Description: This article discusses the changes in the marketing and distribution of lindividual life and annuity products. It highlights new distribution channels including banks, broker dealers, wirehouses and the Internet as well as fee-for-service financial planning.

Description: This is an interview with Shane Chalke, FSA, MAAA, who has started three businesses since 1983. Chalke, the youngest person ever to be elected to the SOA Board of Governors, has a knack for making the right business decisions. He tells how his actuarial background has played a role in his success, and what makes him a winner.

Description: The viability and future outlook for the individual disability industry has dramatically improved from where it was 10 years ago. Evidence of this turn–around can be found in the industry's current profitability and its development of new markets. This article discusses where the market stands today.

Description: This is an interview with Steve Vernon, FSA, MAAA, who runs his own business for helping people live long and prosper–financially, emotionally and with respect to their health. His contribution to society is to use his actuarial expertise and communication skills to help the baby boom generation face these challenges.

Description: This article summarizes a roundtable discussion moderated by Anna Rappaport. The purpose of the roundtable was to discuss a model of personal investing known as the Life–Cycle Model of Investing and Saving. This model is concerned with how individuals can find ways to smooth their consumption so that they have a roughly similar standard of living across different periods of time.

Description: An actuary reflects on her own career path and has suggestions on what the actuarial profession can do to support students who are seeking actuarial careers. From The Actuary, April 2011.

Description: This article gives a brief overview about the interview process of presidential candidates for The Actuary. From The Actuary Vol. 24, No. 7

Description: A discussion about regulators, lawmakers, actuaries and insurers working together to keep health insurance costs affordable to the consumer but also profitable enough for insurers to continue to offer the product.