Certainty of Lifestyle : Contrasting a Simulation Over a Fixed Period versus Multiple Period Models

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the differences between the commonly used Monte Carlo simulations that assume a static withdrawal based on a fixed mortality period and initial capital, versus the use of Monte Carlo simulations that re-estimate withdrawal amounts utilizing period life tables for longevity, in addition to the variable remaining capital of each simulation, both for each individual year within the model. Such models may be called Conditionally Adjusted Sequential Retirement Periods models (CASRP). The model approach demonstrates that, although a fixed period simulation has a failure rate at some future age, the multiple period model doesn't run out of funds unless catastrophically spent. This paper explains why funds are available at superannuated ages and demonstrates methods that remove the fear of failure (running out of money before life) to give more control and insight to retirees over the future of their funds. The authors find there is a difference between a single fixed period Monte Carlo simulation, and a model made up of a series of connected simulations.The model approach results in a series of solutions at each age, rather than a series of computations that result in a single solution from a traditional fixed period Monte Carlo simulation