This series takes a fresh, sometimes challenging, look at some of the issues facing the actuarial profession and society
The ‘think’ series aims to promote debate on topics across the spectrum of actuarial work and beyond. It looks to provide a platform for members and stakeholders to share views that may differ from the IFoA’s ‘house’ view.
Through this, we hope to challenge the status quo within the profession, question orthodoxy, and shine a light on complex or under-examined issues. At its heart, the series is about stimulating discussion and dialogue to help tackle issues from a different perspective.
The twelfth edition in our ‘think’ series has been authored by IFoA Fellows Jake Iveson and Sarah Iveson. Jake is a London-based Chartered Actuary who works for the management consulting firm Oliver Wyman. He volunteers as Chair of the IFoA’s General Insurance Research and Thought Leadership Committee and Deputy Chair of its General Insurance Board. Sarah is the sole reserving actuary at Berkley Re, a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Insurers (WCI) and serves as a committee member for the WCI’s young members section iEngage.
In this article, Jake and Sarah argue that residential Stamp Duty Land Tax (rSDLT) poses a significant barrier to mobility in the UK, substantially increasing the upfront cost of moving house.
Read the full piece to learn more about their proposed solution: restructuring rSDLT to allow homeowners to apply previously paid stamp duty towards the amount owed on subsequent property purchases.
To deepen the discussion, we invite you to join the authors at a live Q&A session at 12:00 BST (UTC + 1) on 4 September 2025. This is your opportunity to engage directly with Jake and Sarah, ask questions, and reflect on how actuarial insights can help shape a fairer and more dynamic housing market.
If you have any questions or would like to contribute to a future ‘think’ piece, please contact the IFoA Policy Team.
