Description: Whole life insurance nonforfeiture options may be actuarially equivalent at the time premium payments end. When the entire remaining lifetime of the policy is fully considered; however, significant differences emerge in expenses between paying the cash surrender value, converting to reduced paid-up, or converting to extended term insurance. This article explores how a company might manage its existing nonforfeiture options and consider what to continue to offer after a product refiling with that entire lifetime in mind.

Description: The article discusses ACLI's comment letters submitted to Treasury and the IRS in response to the proposed regulations on the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR)'s discussion draft of the Protecting Proper Life Insurance From Abuse Act, that would impact the taxation of some to private placement life insurance.

Description: The rapid economic development of Asia has ushered in profound lifestyle changes, particularly in urban centers. Increased disposable income, urbanization, and the proliferation of convenient food services have contributed to dietary habits associated with elevated health risks. Among these, insulin resistance (IR)—a metabolic condition linked to diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases—has emerged as a critical yet underrecognized threat. IR is also strongly associated with an increased risk of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. For life and health insurers operating in markets such as Greater China and Southeast Asia, traditional underwriting methods face significant challenges in accurately assessing these evolving risks. This article investigates the limitations of conventional approaches and explores the potential of continuous underwriting methodologies to better align risk assessment with dynamic lifestyle factors.

Description: The article discusses court decisions on the tax basis and taxable gain in life insurance contracts.

Description: Description of general tax consequences of purchasing an insurance company, either through buying the assets or buying the stock.

Description: A historical perspective on the Japanese life insurance industry and the significant changes it was expected to undergo.

Description: Describes a new tax approach in Ireland and the interest it is attracting.

Description: This article discusses the implications of a groundbreaking test that can help people determine how long they have left to live.

Description: This article summarizes the key changes to VM-31 requirements in the 2020 version of the Valuation Manual for both life and variable annuities, and compares and contrasts the requirements for each. In addition, the article offers insights into common issues and recommendations for VM-31 reports from the viewpoints of a regulator, consultant, and company actuary.

Description: Read the February 2020 issue of Product Matters! published by the Product Development Section. Newsletters provide practical information for the working actuary, articles on trends that impact sections and news about section activities.