RD172 - Virginia College Savings Plan Annual Financial Report for the Period Ended June 30, 2004
Executive Summary: The Virginia College Savings Plan's Management Discussion and Analysis is required supplemental information under the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) reporting model. It is designed to assist the reader in focusing on significant financial issues and provides an overview of financial activity. This discussion includes an analysis of the Plan's financial condition and results of operations for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2004. Since this presentation includes summarized data, it should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements and notes. The Virginia College Savings Plan (the Plan) operates the Commonwealth's Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 529 qualified tuition program, which offers three options, the Virginia Prepaid Education Program (VPEP), the Virginia Education Savings Trust (VEST), and College America. VPEP is considered a defined benefit plan which offers contracts, for actuarially determined amounts, guaranteeing full future tuition and mandatory fee payments at the Commonwealth's higher education institutions and differing payouts at private or out-of-state institutions. Annually, the Plan's actuary determines the actuarial soundness of VPEP. Key factors used in the soundness analysis include potential tuition increases (both short and long-term) as well as anticipated investment performance. VEST is a defined contribution program which allows participants to make contributions into their selected investment portfolio(s). VEST accounts are subject to market investment risk, including the possible loss of principal. College America is also a defined contribution plan which offers 21 different American Funds mutual fund products as investment options. College America participants also bear all market risk for their investment, including the potential loss of principal. The American Funds acts as program manager for this program and provides all back office and operational activities for the program. |