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32 J. Ins. Regul. [i] (2013)

handle is hein.journals/jloins32 and id is 1 raw text is: Editors Perspective We are pleased to take on the role of co-editors of the Journal of Insurance Regulation, as the study of regulatory issues and the ways in which regulation impacts insurers, consumers and the economy has been an important part of our research agenda from the start of our careers. The JIR provides a way to reach an audience of not only academics, but policymakers struggling to create regulations that will impact the insurance industry and policyholders for years to come. The coming year presents a wide variety of opportunities for researchers wanting to make a contribution to the growing volume of literature involving insurance regulation. A review of the topics discussed at recent NAIC meetings illustrates the diversity of the pressing issues faced by insurance regulators. In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, there have been increased discussions about whether insurers present systemic risk to the U.S. economy. As we approach 2014, issues related to the health insurance marketplace, specifically health insurance exchanges and the individual mandate, are receiving a great deal of attention. Other pertinent issues relevant to a wide audience include principle-based reserving, issues related to natural disasters, consumer protection matters, and the influence of global interests on regulation of insurance markets in the U.S. These are just a few of the issues on the regulatory horizon. With new risks constantly emerging, it is likely that new regulatory concerns will surface in the near future. Also, topics such as automobile insurance regulation and catastrophes remain salient issues. Since becoming co-editors of the JIR in May 2013, we have taken on the responsibility of following through on the 10 research papers that were currently under review, as well as initiate the review process for 14 new submissions. These papers cover a number of topics, including insurer investments, financial disclosure, financial accreditation standards, and automobile insurance regulation. Additionally, we have issued a Call for Papers for research relating to insurance fraud and regulation, slated to appear in the 2014 edition, and we look forward to receiving a number of articles on this subject. We are grateful for the work of the previous editors and those who have served on the editorial board and as reviewers. We are looking forward to the coming year and hope to continue the tradition of publishing quality research covering topics of interest to a wide audience, including the academic community, regulators and practitioners.