Actuarial gains and losses

An actuarial gain (loss) appears when actual experience is more (less) favourable than the actuary´s estimate. For example in computing the provision for pensions, the actuarial methods used are essentially based on parameters calling for forecasted values (e.g. future wage or public pension levels). Actuarial gains and losses are the result of the adjustments in these assumptions that are made necessary from time to time.