Description: This article aims to delve into the rationale and calculation logic of the variable fee approach (VFA) which is applied to the insurance contracts with direct participation features under IFRS 17. In actual practice, the variable fee approach can be implemented in two methods, which are from fee income or total cash flows point of view. These two methods will achieve the same outcomes but are featured with different insights and varying degree of operational ease. Detailed roll-forward steps of contractual service margin (CSM) for these two methods are elaborated in the article, along with a numerical example by using a variable universal life product to help the readers comprehend the rationale behind the variable fee approach.

Description: There will be inflection points in the value of an instrument when interest rates change. These inflection points could materially impact the approximation of value change using ALM metrics. In this part of the seven-part series, I will highlight: • How to identify the inflection points; • the range of rate changes where ALM metrics may be relied upon i.e., the “validity” range, outside of which recalculation of the ALM metrics is required and the potential that one needs to rebalance the portfolio; • a technique to improve on the approximation of value change beyond the validity range; and • a technique to convert non-linear change on the yield curve to be used with duration and convexity.

Description: Presents a step-by-step methodology for calculating confidence intervals for IBNR estimates derived using the Averaqe PMPM method. It is a companion article to the January 2023 Health Watch article presenting the Average PMPM method for generating point estimates of IBNR with zero claims runout.

Description: What are insurance companies promoting in the market? How are they framing their products and services? What is their value proposition to producers? Members of the SOA Marketing and Distribution section receive an exclusive benefit that addresses these questions.

Description: Describing background of SOA Committee for Middle East, Africa &Pakistan (MAP) region, activities and future actions.

Description: We explore the question of how an actuary–artificial intelligence collaboration might look in the future and how actuaries should be trained to best leverage this technology. It felt fitting to accomplish this through a conversation with an AI system, as AI involvement is warranted to ground the analysis in the technology’s true capabilities.

Description: View resources for the SOA Societal Purpose program.

Description: The insurance industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by a rapidly evolving landscape that is reshaping the way insurers market and distribute their products. This article delves into the key trends and factors shaping the industry, exploring the implications for insurance companies as they adapt to the changing environment.

Description: This session is designed to inform you about the current state of mental health and mental health care in the United States, as well as future trajectories. By exploring topics such as plan design, provider network, provider reimbursement, and other relevant channels, this session aims to enlighten everyone on existing challenges and the strategies being employed to tackle them. Notably, this will include and highlight proposed changes to the mental health parity. Additionally, attendees will hear from a mental health provider/academic on these topics to gain a non-actuarial perspective.