by Paul Sweeting | Apr 6, 2010 | All, Pensions
The CBI produced an interesting and timely report on public sector pensions today. It raises a number of important issues, but the solutions suggested could cause as many problems as they solve. One very good point is that pension accrual should be recognised as part...
by Paul Sweeting | Mar 25, 2010 | All, Longevity
There has been some discussion in the FT over the last week regarding the issue of longevity bonds. David Blake proposed that the Government could raise capital by issuing longevity bonds whilst Paul Dare proposed that these bonds could be sold direct to individuals....
by Paul Sweeting | Mar 16, 2010 | All, Pensions
Hot on the heels of the NAPF, the Association of Consulting Actuaries (ACA) has launched its own 6-point manifesto to save defined benefit pension schemes in the UK. There are some good points here, and I want to concentrate on two in particular:...
by Paul Sweeting | Mar 13, 2010 | All, Events
The 2010 International Congress of Actuaries in Cape Town is over. It has been, I think, a great success. Over 1,500 delegates – more than ever before – came to the congress from Europe, Australasia, North and South America, Asia and, of course Africa....
by Paul Sweeting | Mar 10, 2010 | All, Events, Learning, Longevity
I’m currently at the International Congress of Actuaries in Cape Town, and it’s amazing what you learn. For example, today I learnt that whilst mammals have X and Y chromosomes, with women having two X’s and men having an X and a Y, birds have W and...
by Paul Sweeting | Mar 10, 2010 | All, Industry News, Investment
Whilst at the International Congress of Actuaries, I took the opportunity to visit the University of Cape Town. This has a large and successful actuarial science program, and a lot of very bright students (and staff!). I spent my time at the university talking about...
by Paul Sweeting | Mar 10, 2010 | All, Pensions
The NAPF’s new investment council chairman Ray Martin has announced six changes he believes are needed to save private-sector defined benefit pensions. Reverse the Government’s decision to withdraw higher rate tax relief on pension contributions. Simplify the...
