This paper describes alternative approaches to estimate the Value at Risk (VaR) of a position. Four methods are compared: the unconditional case, the model with time varying drift (modeled as an AR(l) process), the model with time varying drift and time varying volatility (modeled as a...

In an editorial in ASTIN Bulletin, Hans Bühlmann (2002) suggests it is time to change the teaching of life insurance theory towards the real life challenges of that industry. The following note is a response to this editorial

Under a guaranteed annuity option, an insurer guarantees to convert a policyholder`s accumulated funds to a life annuity at a fixed rate when the policy matures. If the annuity rates provided under the guarantee are more beneficial to the policyholder than the prevailing rates in the market the...

We consider a risk process modelled as a compound Poisson process. We find the optimal dynamic unlimited excess of loss reinsurance strategy to minimize infinite time ruin probability, and prove the existence of a smooth solution of the corresponding Hamilton- Jacobi- Bellmann equation as well...

We consider a financial market driven by a continuous time homogeneous Markov chain. Conditions for absence of arbitrage and for completeness are spelled out, non-arbitrage pricing of derivatives is discussed, and details are worked out for some cases.

An assumption concerning the long-term rate of return on assets is made by actuaries when they value defined-benefit pension plans.