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Pensionmetrics 2: stochastic pension plan design during the distribution phase

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  • Blake, David
  • Cairns, Andrew J. G.
  • Dowd, Kevin

Abstract

We consider the choices available to a defined contribution (DC) pension plan member at the time of retirement for conversion of his pension fund into a stream of retirement income. In particular, we compare the purchase at retirement age of a conventional life annuity (i.e., a bond-based investment) with distribution programmes involving differing exposures to equities during retirement. The residual fund at the time of the plan member's death can either be bequested to his estate or revert to the life office in exchange for the payment of survival credits while alive. The most important decision, in terms of cost to the plan member, is the level of equity investment. We also find that the optimal age to annuitise depends on the bequest utility and the investment performance of the fund during retirement.

Suggested Citation

  • Blake, David & Cairns, Andrew J. G. & Dowd, Kevin, 2003. "Pensionmetrics 2: stochastic pension plan design during the distribution phase," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 24830, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:24830
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    stochastic pension plan design; defined contribution; discounted utility; life annuity; income drawdown; asset allocation; optimal annuitisation age;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors

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