Optimal Management of the Pension Contribution Rate Using the H∞-Control Theory

In this paper, we construct a general model for a pension fund when there are time delays in the valuation process. Actually, we use the standard structure of the basic reserve equation in order to rebuild a more sophisticated approach based on the theory of H∞ control. Our model evaluates the incomplete information from the delayed fund valuations—due to the oscillatory pattern for benefit claims and investment experience of the past years—within the context of uncertainty additionally to the randomness which certainly exists. So, we construct estimations for the optimal proposed contribution rates based on a feedback mechanism which is a robust stabilization controller, using typical linear matrix inequalities. Finally, a numerical application is fully investigated to obtain further insight into the problem.

The Market Reaction to the Pronouncements Related to International Accounting Standards （IAS） 19R

This paper examines whether and how investors reacted to the pronouncements related to International Accounting Standards （IAS） 19R. Using a sample of 401 European firms reporting pension and retirement expense during the period of 2006-2011, this paper finds negative abnormal returns around the pension project initiation by the International Accounting Standards Board （IASB）. More importantly, the abnormal returns are more negative for firms with higher financial leverage and lower ratios of net periodic pension cost to net income, but less negative for firms in countries with weak creditor rights （CR） and infrequent use of the corridor approach under IAS 19. Additionally, the effects of financial leverage and the ratio of net periodic pension cost to net income on the abnormal returns are more pronounced for smaller firms. Overall, the results are consistent with the view that recognition of previously disclosed off-balance-sheet pension liabilities as required by IAS 19R increases debt contracting costs, and highlight the importance of considering firm size and CR in international tests of debt contracting theory.

Optimal Investment Strategy of Target Benefit Pension Plan Based on Random Inflation and Intergenerational Risk

In this paper,based on the stochastic optimal control method,the intergenerational risk and inflation risk,the optimal investment strategy of the target benefit pension plan is investigated on the basis of measuring the random wage rate under the random mortality and inflation risk of the personnel in the plan and the correlation between the wage change and the fluctuation of the financial market.The research shows that the financial market parameters and wage rate have a great influence on the optimal investment strategy,and gives the optimal investment strategy and the optimal income adjustment strategy of the target benefit pension.The research of this paper provides a reference for the policy formulation and implementation of the Target Benefit Pension Plan in our country.