Annual Meeting Sessions
Monday, October 27
002 - Business Session & Forecasting in the Fog of Uncertainty - 2025-26 Economy and Markets
The CCA’s Business Session precedes the Monday General Session with the welcoming of attendees, announcement of new directors and officers, Treasurer’s Report and presentation of the CCA’s annual awards. Our keynote presentation from Rich Karlgaard on the 2025-26 economy and markets immediately follows. What is the likely outcome of President Trump’s tariffs, both in the coming months and for the remainder of his administration? Are investor fears overblown? Is a recession now likely, and if so, how long will it last? And which industries and regions will be hardest hit? Will lawsuits challenging the president’s tariff authority succeed? What strategies are smart companies using to grow and thrive amidst all this uncertainty? Will tariffs slow down – or accelerate – AI’s “shock-transformation” of business? How will the U.S. economy in 2025-26 shape the elections in 2026? From his vantage point as a former Forbes publisher and now futurist and American commentator for Forbes Asia, Rich Karlgaard has interviewed some of the top business and global leaders of our time. He shares his business and financial outlook for 2025 and beyond. Called “The Navigator to the Future” by the late Harvard Business School professor, Clayton Christensen, Rich charts the best course of action for your business and industry.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
101 - Penn and Exit: Making a Pension Plan Disappear
Every show has its finale and for some pension plans that time has come. In this session, we’ll explore the key steps, strategic considerations, and regulatory requirements involved in terminating a defined benefit pension plan. From preparing the stage with a review of the data and prepping the plan document, to managing the spotlight of compliance and participant communications, and lastly to lowering the curtain with an annuity purchase. You’ll gain insights to ensure a smooth plan termination.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
102 - Working With the PBGC
Join our panelists as they explore recent developments and the best practices for working with the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) in relation to single-employer plans. The discussion may cover key topics such as standard terminations, PBGC-initiated terminations, the Early Warning Program, 4062( e) liability and recent developments. Drawing from their own experiences, the speakers provide practical tips to help actuaries and plan sponsors navigate PBGC-related challenges effectively.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
103 - Jackpot Retirement: Reinventing the Golden Years
Come listen to members of the CPR Council, which is “breathing new life into retirement plans.” Learn what CPR stands for, why this council was formed, and what they have been up to since January 2025. Council members share an overview of the new retirement design developed by the council that addresses the shortcomings of our existing DB/DC framework in the US.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
104 - Quit Gambling on What's Driving Healthcare Costs
Health care trends are hovering around double digits with various reasons including the effect of provider contract negotiations, latent pandemic-related health issues, and the appeal of weight loss drugs. Panelists provide information from large-scale data analyses to offer attendees valuable insights for immediate application, preventing the need to gamble on you next health care claim projections.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
105 - Intersection of Network Discounts and Cost Transparency
The traditional reliance on network discount metrics is being challenged by a new wave of cost transparency regulations and machine-readable files (MRFs). Speakers explore how the public release of negotiated rate data is changing the way actuaries evaluate provider networks, assess plan competitiveness, and support pricing strategies. Presenters also discuss practical ways actuaries can incorporate MRF data into their work—highlighting use cases in benchmarking, provider contracting analysis, and strategic forecasting. We’ll also address the limitations and complexities of this emerging data source, and how actuaries can balance transparency-driven insights with actuarial rigor. Designed for health actuaries working in pricing, network analytics, or provider strategy, this session offers actionable perspectives on navigating a rapidly evolving reimbursement landscape.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
106 - Actuaries and AI: From Awareness to Action
Actuaries are increasingly curious about AI – but what are we actually using it for today? We’ll explore the results of the recent CCA member survey on AI awareness, usage, and goals, including what members said they wanted most: real-world use cases. Whether you’re exploring or already experimenting, this session offers a tactical, grounded look at where actuaries are with AI – and where they want to go next.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.00
EA Formal Credit: 1.00
107 - In the Line of Fire - Actuarial Consulting in the Public Sector
Public sector consulting is called public for a reason! Our work product and consulting advice is presented in public meetings in publicly accessible documents. This means our work may be challenged in high pressure forums that require professional and resolute responses. This session will explore real-world situations that involve such adversarial conditions as well as control of work product issues. Bring your favorite war stories and questions for discussion.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
108 - PBGC Update for ME and SE Pension Plans
A panel of PBGC representatives provides an update on the operations of their single‐employer and multiemployer programs. Topics include recent PBGC guidance, hints and tips about their programs, along with your questions.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
109 - Issues with Cash Balance Plans
Traditional cash balance plans may have been designed to be safe, secure and reliable sources of pension income. But in reality that is far from the case. Though stated account balances are indeed stable, expected lifetime income is anything but. On the other hand, benefits under cash balance plans with market-based formulas are likely to be much more stable. Another critical issue with these types of plans is funded status volatility. What hedging approaches are available to manage that?
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
Leadership Development Community Luncheon
The CCA Leadership Development Community meets to discuss current issues, outlooks, and news. Neither CCA nor community membership is required to attend.
Credits:
201 - Late Breaking Developments
Expert speakers discuss the latest developments in the private pension sector. Recent rulings and regulations will be discussed in addition to pending retirement plan legislation and litigation activity.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 0.75
EA Non-Core Credit: 0.75
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
202 - Betting on the Future: Impact of Legislation and Innovation on DC Plans
In this session, speakers will explore the evolution of the defined contribution landscape focusing on how legislative changes to defined contribution plans have influenced retirement savings and outcomes over the past two decades. Speakers will also discuss how recent legislation and market advancements are poised to further transform the defined contribution industry including pooled arrangements and lifetime income products and solutions.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.00
EA Formal Credit: 1.00
203 - High Stakes and Straight Talk: Playing Your AI Cards Right
AI is the talk of the town but have you adopted it in your work? Use of chat bots to streamline winning communications is perhaps the safest bet in getting started with AI. This session dives into how actuaries can harness AI tools to improve efficiency and communication quality while staying aligned with professional guidance of ASOPs. Our goal is to have some hands-on demonstration of some publicly available tools. This session is appropriate for people of any experience with AI tools.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 0.75
EA Non-Core Credit: 0.75
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
204 - Shaping US Healthcare: Key Legal and Regulatory Updates
This session will dive into the most recent updates and key shifts in US healthcare policy, laws, and regulations. We will explore the implications for providers, insurers, consumers, and employers. Topics will include changes in healthcare coverage and compliance requirements, the ongoing evolution of the ACA, as well as emerging trends in telehealth, data privacy, and insurance reform. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how these changes impact the healthcare system, and actionable insights for staying ahead in an increasingly complex environment.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
205 - ROI on DM:CM Point Solutions
Employer groups are looking for programs and a delivery model that addresses various conditions including cancer and diabetes. Since chronic conditions make up 85% of overall healthcare costs, employer groups want to ensure that programs result in savings and improved population health. Determining Return on Investment on Case Management and Disease Management programs are top of mind. You will find out more in this session.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
206 - What do your Clients Think About You?
Do you know what is important to your clients and how they value/leverage their outside advisors? If you don’t you will after attending this session. Our panelists will be a combination of CHROs and CFOs.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
207 - Rolling the Dice: How do we Deal with Alternative Assets?
In today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, pension plans are increasingly turning to alternative assets to enhance returns, manage risk, and diversify their portfolio. This session will explore the variety of investments such as private equity, real estate, hedge funds, infrastructure, private debt, and crypto, including how to evaluate them and the investment return assumptions.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
208 - Dueling Actuaries
In this Monday multiemployer tradition, panelists present opposing views of various topics including multiemployer pension (split or employer double down?) and variable vs immunization, and you get to decide who's most correct.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 0.75
EA Non-Core Credit: 0.75
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
209 - Impact of Global Economy on Transactions
This session will focus on M&A through the lens of rewards and how current global issues shape and influence the transaction. As multinational companies pursue inorganic growth, the impact from the deal can either maximize or minimize value, depending on how they mitigate people-related roles. Join us for an engaging discussion in navigating the complexities of M&A in today’s dynamic global environment.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
301 - From Formula to Funding - Navigating Cash Balance Plan Design
This session will provide an in-depth look at the design of cash balance plans, focusing on plan structure, interest crediting rates, contribution formulas, and integration with existing retirement programs. Attendees will learn how plan design choices impact participant outcomes while also reviewing the actuarial and regulatory implications of funding these plans under current IRS and PBGC rules.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
302 - ERISA Battle Royale Trivia
ERISA Trivia in a classic tradition but in a “high stakes setting here in Vegas. Think you have what it takes to walk away with the ERISA jackpot? If you’re unsure, roll the dice guaranteed to win some new knowledge.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
303 - Cashing Out - Design Considerations for Early Retirement Programs and Reductions in Force
When it comes to workforce planning, sometimes plan sponsors need to know when to hold ‘em and when to offer an early exit. This session explores considerations and options for designing early retirement programs as well as ways to utilize retirement plans to support a reduction in force. We’ll cover eligibility, incentive structures, potential use of phased retirement arrangements, legal and compliance considerations, and the communication strategies needed to support a smooth transition.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
304 - Navigating the Future of Employer Sponsored Health Insurance
As healthcare costs continue to rise and the landscape evolves, employer provided health insurance is at a crossroads. This session will explore the future of employer sponsored insurance, focusing on everyday trends, continued challenges and innovative solutions. We will examine how employers are adapting to changing regulations, advancements in technology and expectations of a multi-generational workforce. Key topics will include enhancements to the current group health model, and the accelerated adoption of individual coverage health reimbursement agreements.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
305 - Current Topics in MAPD, Zero Premium, Plans and Trends
Speakers highlight current topics in Medicare Advantage, Part D, and changes to the programs due to the Inflation Reduction Act. Topics will include Medicare Advantage, Part D, employer sponsored Medicare plans and OPEB valuation issues.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
306 - The Choices Facing Aging Societies
The fiscal, economic, and social challenges posed by population aging are by now reasonably well understood. Speakers explore the different ways in which today’s major developed countries are responding—or could potentially respond. They focus on four key strategies: reducing the cost of old-age benefit systems, encouraging higher birthrates, increasing immigration, and extending work lives. While the panelists pay particular attention to the choices facing the United States, they draw heavily on lessons from abroad.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
307 - Balancing the Stakes: How Public Pensions Share Risk with Members
Las Vegas - the city of risk and reward! That’s a perfect setting for a discussion on sharing risk in public pension plans. After hearing about DB and DC combinations last year, we continue our risk sharing series by hearing from administrators of plans with variable employee contributions and learn about sharing risk with plan members.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Non-Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
308 - The Art of Constructing an Expected Rate of Return Discount Rate
Multiemployer plan actuaries select the discount rates used to calculate minimum funding standards based on expected rates of return on plan assets. Speakers examine the various factors and considerations that influence the selection process. They also address practical approaches to sourcing data, evaluating assumptions, and balancing actuarial judgment with regulatory and financial reporting requirements. Come to gain a deeper understanding of the nuances and strategic implications of discount rate construction.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50
EA Core Credit: 1.50
EA Formal Credit: 1.50
309 - Emerging Use of Captives for Benefits: A US and Non-US Perspective
As organizations seek innovative ways to manage employee benefits, the use of captives is gaining traction. This session will delve into the emerging trends and strategic application of captives for employee benefits from both US and non-US perspectives. Participants will explore the regulatory landscapes, risk management strategies, and innovative uses of captives in providing employee benefits across different regions.
Credits:
CPD Credit: 1.50