Chapter 17, Problem 17.11BE

Net gain

• LO17–6

The projected benefit obligation and plan assets were $80 million and $100 million, respectively, at the beginning of the year. Due primarily to favorable stock market performance in recent years, there also was a net gain of $30 million. On average, employees’ remaining service life with the company is 10 years. As a result of the net gain, what was the increase or decrease in pension expense for the year?