This paper develops an analytical framework for the design of pension systems, taking the functions of the pension system as the guiding principle. It discusses the economic principles underlying these functions and their implementation in practice. In particular, it distinguishes three...

This paper takes stock of the evolution in pension systems and the challenges that remain for the future. It derives a typology of pension systems and uses this to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of alternative systems. After describing how pension systems in the industrial world have been...

Many European countries have begun (or have announced) programs intended to reduce the growth of entitlement programs, in particular of public pensions. Current costs are high, and the pressures will increase due to population aging and negative incentive effects. This paper focuses on the...

We stress that the demographic changes that Europe will face in the coming decades will have profound consequences not only for the sustainability but also for the adequacy of social security schemes, including pensions. Our paper aims at assessing the consequences of the Ageing Working Group...

Longevity risk — the risk of outliving one's retirement savings — is probably the greatest risk facing current and future retirees in the United States. As life expectancy increases, government programs, private pensions, and various financial products will all be needed to provide...