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Pension Funds Insider brings the latest pensions news and industry insights; from investment and governance updates to new mandate appointments and pensions regulatory information.

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Opinions

Another month, another injustice

Friday, April 5, 2024

Why are our governments so unwilling to recognise a wrong and do something about it to ease the suffering of ordinary people? Why is justice so often delayed? What do they gain? If a private company gets it wrong, it is expected to fix it, but government departments seem to feel they are above such things.

Why Time is so Important for Our Economic Health

Friday, March 22, 2024

This article explains how the nature of money in an economy dramatically affects the time preference of both individuals and companies, which has huge implications for that country’s economic performance and health.

Governments and central banks are destroying the value of your money

Thursday, February 22, 2024

It is time we look at how the value of money is being destroyed, why it is happening, and what you can do about it.

Predators Stalking our Pensions

Friday, October 20, 2023

Margaret Snowdon argues that fraud prevention creates a net benefit for everyone, not just potential victims.

What would pensions and investments look like with sound money?

Friday, September 29, 2023

Sam Roberts of Cartwright muses about how the pension system could work under a different monetary system.

Shifting the paradigm – support the victims and pursue the scammers?

Thursday, August 31, 2023

Margaret Snowdon, Chair of PSIG, argues that putting the focus on perpetrators rather than victims is an essential step in the fight against pension scamming.

Dashboards: Technology is great but don’t forget the member!

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

The UK pension dashboard scene has witnessed significant developments, albeit facing its fair share of challenges and delays.

When is a penalty not a penalty?

Friday, April 28, 2023

No, I’m not talking about football, but that other kick-about sport: HMRC’s relentless pursuit of tax from scams victims. And yes, I’ve talked about it until I am hoarse, but I learned something in my research last week, which is rather Kafkaesque - and no I am not referring to the Raabster’s resignation diatribe in the Telegraph, but to a genuine injustice.

An evolving dashboard is better than none at all

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Following the announcement that the launch of the Pension Dashboard will experience further delays, Jaco Wasserfall argues that staggering its release could be beneficial.

And you thought equal pay was the issue?

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Karen Partridge discusses how important it is to change how and when the pensions industry engages with women

Key issues for trustees in 2022

Monday, February 7, 2022

With 2021 behind us, and an uncertain outlook for the year to come, we asked three PTL Client Directors for their views on the top issues facing pension trustees in 2022.

“The World’s Factory” Reopens

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Just as Chinese manufacturers are coming back online, the rest of the global economy is still struggling to contain the outbreak. With overseas demand for Chinese manufactured goods weakening, where does demand come from? How might this affect China’s economy? Ning Meng at Neuberger Berman, discusses his views with Patrick Liu, Head of China at Neuberger Berman.

A New Cold War

Monday, June 8, 2020

U.S.-China relations have been tested over the course of the pandemic. There are rising concerns that a potential decoupling of the two countries could usher in a new cold war, which may bring negative impacts to the overall global economy. How might this affect China? Watch this video where Ning Meng, Portfolio Manager – China Equity at Neuberger Berman, discusses his views with Patrick Liu, Head of China at Neuberger Berman, on the economic and equity market outlook for China.

When good comms go bad

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Leanne Taylor, AHC, discusses why it is important to consider the impact of campaign communications, as things can take a very different turn if not thought through...

Measure what matters, not what’s easy

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

Measure what matters, because what gets measured gets managed. This should be a new mantra for the pensions admin world.

Road signs and speed cameras - Member Emotions and Pension Communications

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

In this article form AHC, Francis Goss discusses the theory that emotions directly lead to behaviour, and how pension communication can learn from it.

Why is communication important?

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

In this interview with Roger Hattam, CEO of AHC, he explains why he feels tailored communications in a complex industry is vital.

Look Over There – Lessons from the Australian Superannuation market

Friday, March 29, 2019

Roger Hattam reflects on his time at the Australian Conference of Major Superannuation Funds and suggests that in the UK we could learn from the experiences of others and act before acted upon.

Don’t burn out on data, the real mileage is in comparison

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Richard Butcher explains why the the Cost Transparency Initiative is important but could be lost in translation without a comparative.

Come Together

Friday, December 14, 2018

DB schemes, Master Trusts and Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) schemes can take advantage of coming together, Ian Neale discusses the benefits.

Creating a savings habit

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Francis Goss looks at how we develop habitual behaviours and discusses how the industry can learn from this and help create a savings culture.

What are Regulators for?

Monday, November 5, 2018

Ian Neale looks at the recent joining of regulatory forces and asks; what has this achieved?

I want someone to help me

Friday, October 12, 2018

Peter Nicholas explains how important it is to receive quality guidance and assistant at the right time.

FOMO – and changing savings behaviour

Thursday, August 16, 2018

Peter Nicholas looks at interesting behaviours we all exhibit and discusses how we can use these in the retirement savings world.

“Are you talking to me?”

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Peter Nicholas draws comparison from the movie 'Taxi Driver ' to highlight communication problems within the pensions industry. In this insightful piece Peter asks how the industry can translate important messages more effectively to all members.

The deadline has passed

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Are trustees compliant?

Clearer, quicker, tougher

Monday, May 21, 2018

Clearer, quicker, tougher - why TPR's new mantra matters to you

Pension freedoms: sounds great, but is it working?

Friday, May 4, 2018

Ian Neale debates the ideas proposed by the WPC when it comes to deciding what to do with your pension pot.

What does bowel cancer screening have to do with my pension?

Thursday, April 19, 2018

It’s all a matter of communication.

Retirement planning: challenges for pension providers and retirees alike

Friday, April 13, 2018

Today, pension providers like insurers and pension funds, face multiple challenges regarding pensions communication.

PPF Levy – Do you know the score?

Thursday, April 12, 2018

Ahead of the PPF levy deadline Robert Palmer explains how checking your data is correct could save more than just money.

“You’re fired”

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Alan Sugar has it easy.

Your choice: over and out

Friday, March 16, 2018

Minimum employer pension contributions to double and employee contributions treble but it still isn't enough. Ian Neale looks at the tough decisions members are facing in the coming months.

Peter Nicholas asks: who is the audience?

Thursday, February 22, 2018

When it comes to the Chair's statement, to whom is it aimed and what is the purpose?

Engaging DC schemes with ESG factors

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Stuart O’Brien explains what ESG might look like in practice as part of a scheme’s asset portfolio

Funding for later life

Thursday, January 18, 2018

Aries Director Ian Neale insists the pensions industry must support the fight for financing later life

Life is what happens while you are busy doing other things

Friday, January 5, 2018

Peter Nicholas urges us not to let time pass us by and to grab the opportunity to learn, develop and be prepared for now and for the future.

Spotlight on transaction cost disclosure

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

Donny Hay discusses the impact and reasons for transparency on transaction costs

Pension proud

Friday, November 3, 2017

"I'm proud to work in pensions, but I'm jealous of the NHS" - Peter Nicholas

Enhancing decision making through cyclicality and dynamic asset allocation

Monday, October 23, 2017

Hens Steehouwer discusses how investors can use their understanding of cyclicality to enhance investment decision making.

Good governance?

Friday, October 6, 2017

The new TPR campaign will drive pension scheme engagement on governance

GDPR juggernaut

Thursday, September 28, 2017

Richard Butcher speaks of the importance of the new GDPR regulations but also of his fear of getting it wrong.

The good, the bad and the ugly

Friday, September 22, 2017

Ian Neale discusses the alternative to simply banning foul behaviours and looks at more successful preventions.

2018: The Year of Deferred

Friday, September 15, 2017

Geraldine Bassett of PASA discusses the administrative challenges of deferred DB members and 2018 is the "time to bite the bullet"

I want holes not power drills

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Peter Nicholas interestingly draws comparison between the necessary yet neglected drill in the cupboard and pension savings.

What's next for the war on scammers?

Friday, September 1, 2017

Following the news that the government has stepped up its measures to prevent pension scams by including emails and text messages in its impending cold-calling ban, Robert Palmer, welcomes this decision and says it's about time firm action was taken.

Developing the digital journey

Friday, August 25, 2017

Daniel Taylor explains that administrators should be doing more for members online.

Seeing the right people

Monday, August 21, 2017

Lucas Vermeulen discusses the importance of understanding the basic needs and requirements of a pension fund before seeking unsuitable advice.

Administration Standards for Master Trusts – why are they needed?

Friday, August 11, 2017

PASA's Lorraine Harper discusses why administration standards are important for Master trusts

A perfect savings storm for the youngsters

Friday, August 4, 2017

Richard Butcher explains how the pensions model needs drastic change to avoid a bleak and expensive future for young savers

Treasury thinking colonises the DWP

Friday, July 28, 2017

Ian Neale discusses the challenges facing the latest Pensions Minister, Guy Opperman.

The Transfer Conundrum - solving new problems for old processes?

Friday, July 21, 2017

PASA's Kim Gubler discusses making DB transfers simpler for all involved by working together as an industry.

Opportunity points!

Friday, July 14, 2017

Peter Nicholas describes how getting the right message, to the right person, at the right time is vital in order to make a material difference to a member's retirement outcome.

The next big thing or the latest gimmick – Cashflow Driven Investment

Friday, July 7, 2017

Robert Palmer discusses using a combination of cashflow driven investment and liability driven investment to buy some time for trustees.

Cybersecurity is not just an IT Problem

Friday, June 30, 2017

Daniel Taylor urges the pension industry to take cyber security seriously with rigorous training and testing.

On pension planning and the capacity to bear losses

Friday, June 23, 2017

The nature of pension planning has clearly changed as active working people today are building up smaller pensions. As a result people, are now more often confronted with the outlook of having insufficient income for all their intended future expenses.

AMNT preliminary survey results: what are we seeing?

Friday, June 16, 2017

Each year, The Association of Member Nominated Trustees conducts a survey of the views of its members.

Transaction cost debate: where to next?

Friday, June 9, 2017

The asset management industry is not used to having the spotlight shone on it, however it has come as a result of the debate on costs and charges. Donny Hay looks at the importance of transparency when dealing with costs.

Two Regulators Rampant

Friday, June 2, 2017

Ian Neale discusses how one size does not always fit all.

The Pensions Dashboard: yet another positive reason to clean your data

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Girish Menezes asks do we need any more reasons to improve data quality?

It doesn't matter, until it matters!

Thursday, May 18, 2017

Peter Nicholas urges the pension industry to act ahead of time and shape member behaviours before it's too late.

Long live pick n' mix

Friday, May 12, 2017

Clear fees for clear services: Phil Farrell reflects on a simpler time and suggests we take note for the future

First Time Outsourcing

Friday, May 5, 2017

Gillian Hickey warns that first-time outsourcing projects are not the same as third-party transitions.

What might the government's consultation mean for the future of DB

Friday, April 28, 2017

The Government's Green Paper "Security and sustainability in defined benefit pension schemes" is currently out for consultation.

How to live forever

Thursday, April 20, 2017

Karen Partridge suggests that pensions are about financing life, not just retirement.

Costs, charges and the highest quality.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

PTL's Colin Richardson discusses the importance of quality and getting value for money.

On Westminster Bridge

Friday, April 7, 2017

Ian Neale reflects on last week's events and discusses the need for us to focus on what is important.

Raising the Game

Friday, March 31, 2017

Fergus Clarkes suggests that proper administration is crucial and standards need to be raised.

Daylight savings and retirement savings

Friday, March 24, 2017

Peter Nicholas discusses the importance of communications and the importance of working together to find the right way to save for the future.

Paying for Mum and Dad's pension

Friday, March 17, 2017

Stuart Price discusses how we could manage the intergenerational pension gap more effectively.

To transition or to transform?

Friday, March 10, 2017

Jenny Monger discusses the value of proper transitioning in a pension scheme transformation process.

Pension trustees have had their say

Friday, March 3, 2017

David Weeks discusses key questions following the Pensions Ministers' address at the quarterly AMNT conference.

Intergenerational Fairness

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

What can be done to restore intergenerational fairness within pensions provision?

The day I used the Chair's casting vote

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Richard Butcher explains the importance of making a decision correctly.

Brexit Blight

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Under the shadow of Brexit, Ian Neale urges the pensions industry not to wait for things to change before they act.

Pensions Dashboard – what's not to like?

Friday, February 3, 2017

Margaret Snowdon explains how the dashboard can restore trust from members.

Lost in translation

Monday, January 30, 2017

Peter Nicholas stresses the importance of clear communication to pension members and their families.

Binning Recycling

Friday, January 20, 2017

Tim Middleton calls for Government to stop 'tinkering' with Pension Policy.

Changing for the best, preparing for the worst

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Toby Clark warns that changing administrators could be costly if you're not prepared.

2016 - What a year!

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

History will look back on 2016 as the year when politics became predictably unpredictable.

Trustees: who are we supposed to consult on investments?

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Richard Butcher explains consultation isn't as complex as it seems.

The Times They Are A-Changin'

Friday, December 9, 2016

Ian Neale insists that in a time of change the pensions industry must work together.

Ban on cold calling

Friday, December 2, 2016

Margaret Snowdon discusses the impact of the Autumn Statement announcement.

Christmas comes earlier and earlier each year, but never early enough

Friday, November 25, 2016

Peter Nicholas uses the festive spirit to inspire new ways to engage with employees.

Brexit pursued by a Trump

Friday, November 18, 2016

Expect the unexpected in post Brexit Britain says Tim Middleton, PMI.

Protecting your greatest asset

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Daniel Taylor explains 6 key steps to keeping your data safe.

Are you environmentally and socially irresponsible?

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Nigel Wildman discusses new guidelines aimed to help trustees stay ahead of the investment game.

Innovations in Defined Contribution Investment Structure

Friday, October 28, 2016

Stuart Breyer looks at how to make sophisticated illiquid investing possible for the average UK saver.

Transaction costs – what must trustees actually do?

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Richard Butcher explains what is expected of funds following the FCAs consultation on disclosing investment transaction.

What price advice?

Thursday, October 13, 2016

Ian Neale discusses the difference between advice and guidance in light of the announcement of a new pensions guidance body.

Pension administration is a wise investment

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Girish Menezes discusses the importance of supporting pension administrators.

Where does your pension sit in your priorities?

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Peter Nicholas suggests pensions should be in your top 5 priorities.

Do the benefits outweigh the risks?

Friday, September 23, 2016

Tim Middleton discusses the pros and cons of the new Pensions Dashboard.

Finding the perfect home

Friday, September 16, 2016

Joe Anderson discusses the essential considerations of change

How can we make pensions and investments as inspiring as the Olympics

Friday, September 9, 2016

KBPRs Joanne Macklin discusses the importance of financial education for the next generation.

The Welfare State & Bankrupt Pensions

Friday, September 2, 2016

Stuart Breyer calls for us to take action now in order to quell future retirement disasters.

The Olympics, marginal gains and your pension deficit

Friday, August 26, 2016

How did Team GB go from post-colonial also-rans to global sporting superpower?

Investing in a future

Friday, August 19, 2016

Ian Neale discusses the importance of looking to the future in a time when short-term thinking presides.

Pensions Dashboard and the Administrator's Role

Friday, August 12, 2016

Margaret Snowdon discusses the importance of the Dashboard and what Administrators can do in preparation.

Congratulations. Your inheritance is waiting for you.

Friday, August 5, 2016

Peter Nicholas suggests a simple pensions rebrand could alter attitudes to retirement savings.

Being Absurdly Ambitious: Let's Solve the Pensions and Savings Crisis

Thursday, July 28, 2016

Stuart Breyer urges that education and collaboration is more important than ever in these financial times.

The end is nigh, but when?

Friday, July 22, 2016

DB may be in decline but there are still millions of members to consider.

Is your pension glass empty?

Friday, July 15, 2016

Alan Collins sees interesting times ahead but looks to the future with positivity.

GMP Reconciliations – how to achieve value for money?

Thursday, July 7, 2016

Dennis Mincher explains it's important to shop around to get the best deal for your scheme.

The Wolf of Threadneedle Street

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Colin Musgreaves tackles the issues of transparency within the investment industry.

No referendum for old pensions

Friday, June 24, 2016

Ian Neale asks does the government have the authority to impose further costs on the pension industry?

Engaging with your investment consultant

Friday, June 17, 2016

Simon Cohen highlights an area of the market that he thinks is unnecessarily neglected

The British Steel Pension Problem

Thursday, June 2, 2016

Tim Middleton discusses some of the options that the Government could consider to overcome the British Steel pensions crisis

Left Waiting

Friday, May 27, 2016

Taylor Smith looks at how to engage with members in the modern age – no one-size fits all

Who really knows how long we are going to live?

Friday, May 20, 2016

Hugh Nolan considers whether the latest mortality projections can be trusted enough to allow employers with Defined Benefit (DB) schemes to cut their contributions.

How will the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) impact your business?

Friday, May 13, 2016

Roisin McKeever explains what effect the GDPR may have with an 8 step explanation.

The increased focus on master trusts

Friday, May 6, 2016

Matt Pridding discusses new plans by the pensions regulator to secure master trusts.

Thirty grand

Friday, April 29, 2016

Ian Neale explains just what to expect from the average pension pot.

A generation in the pensions driving seat

Friday, April 15, 2016

Daniel Barrow gives 'a millennial's perspective' on pensions

Advice and Guidance - how much is it worth?

Friday, April 8, 2016

Mike Crowe takes a moment to look at the Financial Advice Market Review.

Reports of the demise of the administrator are greatly exaggerated

Friday, April 1, 2016

Joe Anderson explores the possibilities of a technology take-over.

Should young people choose a LISA over a workplace pension?

Thursday, March 24, 2016

Richard Smith asks is the UK just one generation away from the death of pensions?

A contracted-out reconciliation checklist

Friday, March 18, 2016

Veratta's Tom Nimmo introduces an individually tailored GMP reconciliation service for pension schemes.

De-Coding Small Lump Sum Exercises

Friday, March 11, 2016

Alison Bostock looks at the benefits of the revised Code for Incentive Exercises.

Hurdles, fences and stable doors

Friday, March 4, 2016

Has the High Court opened a door for potential scammers? Ian Neale looks why.

Hedging – What should you be doing to control your pension scheme's investment risk?

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Simon Cohen of Spence & Partners discusses the benefits of reviewing interest rate hedging policies

Physics and retirement savings

Friday, February 19, 2016

AHC's Peter Nicholas discusses how 'you don't get something out of nothing'.

Knowledge is key

Friday, February 12, 2016

Vince Linnane from the PMI announces developments to the Certificate in Pension Scheme Member Guidance and pushes the importance of tailored advice.

In the shoes of a member

Friday, February 5, 2016

Joe Anderson discusses the importance of audience when it comes to explaining pension options.

Collapsing global oil prices

Friday, January 29, 2016

What does this mean for pension funds?

How can technology help to make better investment risk decisions?

Friday, January 22, 2016

Tom Nimmo discusses a new Investment Risk Management module and how it has 'seriously improved upon the inadequacies of previous technologies', allowing pension scheme trustees and sponsors to actively monitor their schemes' funding strategies.

Do less, get more

Friday, January 15, 2016

PTL's Candace Benger asks; is there a better way to get what you need?

Legacies

Friday, January 8, 2016

Ian Neale looks at what legacies mean for the pensions industry.

Keep your longevity risk SAIFE

Friday, December 18, 2015

David Bogle lays out an 'easy guide to longevity risk'

All I want for Christmas is smarter members

Thursday, December 10, 2015

"If a bat and ball cost $1.10 and the bat costs $1 more than the ball, then how much does the ball cost?"

Are we going insane?

Friday, December 4, 2015

Richard Dowell looks at how some pension schemes may be repeating past mistakes.

Second Mover Advantage

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Kevin Gundle discusses the advantages of being a latecomer to the market as Aurum launch an Alternative UCITS Fund.

Pensions Freedoms – have you implemented your 7 Point Plan?

Friday, November 20, 2015

DB savers want the same freedoms as DC savers; Richard Smith explains how to prepare for this.

Are we in the midst of the next data quality disaster?

Friday, November 13, 2015

Dennis Mincher looks at potential problems for pension administration caused by new legislative developments.

Is the pensions industry ready for the future?

Friday, November 6, 2015

Matthew Binnington delves in to the possibilities of the technological future.

The distant horizon

Friday, October 30, 2015

Ian Neale explains that exponential growth is not sustainable in a finite world.

Beware: pension scams are on the increase

Thursday, October 22, 2015

As new figures published by City of London police disclose that £9.1 million worth of scams have been reported in the period April to August 2015, what steps can individuals take to avoid the scammers?

I'm a Candy Crush addict

Monday, October 19, 2015

AHC's Peter Nicholas looks at how we react to gamification and how we retain information through different stimuli.

Raising the game

Monday, October 12, 2015

Garry Wake comments on how Freedom and Choice in pensions has affected the administration sector.

Why being conventional can be more risky

Friday, October 9, 2015

Helen Prior looks at how using an alternative approach to de-risking is a safer way to reduce liabilities.

What's in store for PPF levies?

Friday, September 25, 2015

Alan Collins reminds trustees and employers that PPF levy management is an all year round activity.

What's your Fraud Prevention Strategy?

Friday, September 18, 2015

Monica Cope highlights the importance of being safeguarded against fraud

Value for Money

Friday, September 11, 2015

PTL's Alison Bostock draws on her experiences to address the topic of Value for Money in pensions

The cost of fragmentation

Friday, September 4, 2015

Ian Neale discusses negative results of undue changes to the pension system

Charities and LGPS – a toxic mix?

Thursday, August 27, 2015

David Davison sheds light on the relationship between Charities and LGPS

Leroy is on his last legs

Friday, August 21, 2015

Peter Nicholas asks trustees to think about ways to engage with pension clients

De-risking in the good times and the bad

Friday, August 14, 2015

Do de-risking strategies actually lead to greater risk?

Transaction Cost Car Crash

Friday, August 7, 2015

Colin Musgreaves raises concerns over the complexities of new regulations and asks, who will explain?

The Importance of the 'E' in ESG

Friday, August 7, 2015

Aurum's Adam Sweidan calls for the investment industry to help preserve the environment

To tax or not to tax? That is the question

Friday, July 31, 2015

Angela Burns notes the concerns and benefits of scrapping tax relief on pension contributions

Summer Blues Budget

Friday, July 10, 2015

Pensions under the cosh again: anything new? Ian Neale looks at the next round of budget changes for pensions.

The Power of Automation

Friday, July 3, 2015

Christopher Shortt of Spence & Partners details the process of automating DB pension schemes.

A failure of logic

Friday, June 26, 2015

Peter Nicholas seeks to understand why it's always about the nail...

Helping your pension grow old gracefully

Friday, June 19, 2015

Andrew Stewart explains how longevity swaps could help manage the risk of running a pension fund

How to save time and money when keeping track of deferred members

Friday, June 12, 2015

Paul Lalwan calls for the UK to emulate other countries and track our pension benefits, co-operation from pensions administrators is much needed.

What drives your Employer Covenant?

Thursday, June 4, 2015

Monitoring the performance of a company is a full time job for many investors; Richard Smith outlines a few keys issues for Trustees to consider.

Who is looking after your information securi-tea?

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Monica Cope discusses the importance of protecting pension member data from cybercrime.

Investment governance – what a dog's dinner

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Richard Butcher faces the challenges of a trustee and provides a helpful aide to ensure the answer is always at hand

Welcome Dr Altmann!

Friday, May 15, 2015

Ian Neale placates the unease towards a new pensions minister

All Change For Pension Scheme Accounts

Friday, May 8, 2015

Craig Coulter disusses the three significant changes brought by the revised SORP.

You can't cram for your retirement

Friday, May 1, 2015

AHC's Peter Nicholas asks why is it we need to learn some lessons the hard way?

Batten down the hatches, it's election time

Monday, April 27, 2015

Cardano's Emma Adair lays out the possibilities of the upcoming election and what this may mean for UK pensions.

Freedom, choice and transaction costs

Monday, April 27, 2015

Richard Butcher highlights the overlooked issues and costs of April's changes.

Dude, where's my yield?

Friday, April 17, 2015

Iain North of Aurum Funds asks whether it is right (or logical) to make investors pay for lending their money

Online daily valuation system, So what?

Friday, April 10, 2015

Alan Collins looks at how daily updates could improve scheme efficiency.

Cyber Security – Who's hiding in plain sight?

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Veratta's Monica Cope urges all to check how they protect their information from cyber crime.

Not in the Public Interest

Friday, March 20, 2015

Ian Neale looks at the cons of selling annuities in return for a lump sum

One size doesn't fit all

Friday, March 13, 2015

Neil Copeland of Spence & Partners looks at the barriers of DB Mastertrusts and seeks to find an alternative.

Anyone for Ping Pong?

Friday, March 6, 2015

Peter Nicholas realises the scope of online communications and how the pensions industry could benefit.

Defined Benefit: Where do we go next?

Friday, February 27, 2015

Cardano's Steve Berkovi looks at the options for Trustees when faced with the question: to buy-in or to buy-out?

Control freaks versus pensions flexibilities

Friday, February 20, 2015

Debbie White highlights the concerns raised by fellow director at PASA asking: Are we ready for April?

Governance is key

Friday, February 13, 2015

Richard Smith of Spence and Partners reflects on the issues discussed at the recent ACA conference and discusses the road ahead for pensions.

14 Months and Counting, It's Time to Act!

Friday, February 6, 2015

Veratta's Dennis Mincher calls on Scheme advisors to take action regarding the impending contracting-out deadline.

LGPS Governance puzzle

Friday, January 30, 2015

PTL's Colin Richardson looks at the difficulties all LGPS administrators will face before April

Freedom of Movement

Friday, January 23, 2015

Ian Neale debates the issues surrounding flexi-access between schemes. Are transfer restrictions beneficial or a hindrance?

It's the End! (Of Contracting Out)

Friday, January 16, 2015

Catrina Browne of Spence & Partners discusses the imminent separation of HMRC from GMPS.

Is it really 2015 already?

Friday, January 9, 2015

AHC's Peter Nicholas urges pension funds to inform members of the impact of Budget2014.

Christmas is coming – was 2014 what you expected?

Friday, December 19, 2014

Emma Adair of Cardano looks back on another big year for pensions

Are all Christmas Sandwiches the Same?

Friday, December 12, 2014

Iain North of Aurum Funds makes a case for hedge funds as a risk reducer, arguing that some critical analysis easily separates the bad apples from the rest of the bunch.

The implications of the potential Aviva / Friends Life tie up

Friday, December 5, 2014

Mike Spink of Spence and Partners reflects on the announcement of the potential mega deal between Aviva and Friends Life.

Managing risk in the digital fridge

Friday, November 28, 2014

Roisin McKeever of Veratta discusses the digital challenges facing companies in the modern information age.

Debunking the myth around small pension pots

Friday, November 21, 2014

Girish Menezes argues that transferring small pension pots from employer to employer is not always the most efficient action

What divides us

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Ian Neale reflects that the removal of age discrimination in pensions is still an ongoing process.

Ever had one of those days? I wonder how many I have left.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Despite having spent more than 25 years in the business Peter Nicholas realises it was time to consider his own retirement.

Code of Practice 3 – Funding plans made to measure

Friday, November 7, 2014

The Pensions Regulator implemented a revised version of Code of Practice 3 for funding defined benefit pension schemes.

We need more transparency around fiduciary management

Monday, October 27, 2014

Cardano's Richard Dowell calls for fiduciary managers to provide a proof statement for Trustees

Data cleansing: the dullest topic or the most vital?

Friday, October 17, 2014

PTL's Colin Richardson argues the benefits of cleansing data and what can be improved by doing so.

Welcome news from the PPF

Friday, October 10, 2014

Alan Collins discusses the benefits of the reduction in next years PPF levy, but warns that this is not cause for complacency.

Breaking the Pain Barrier

Friday, October 3, 2014

Tom Nimmo compares the challenge of implementing "good process" to the tough grind of a half marathon. But the results of achieving both are worthwhile.

KPIs – Key Performance Indicators or Know People's Intentions?

Friday, September 26, 2014

Premiers' John Reeve tackles the issue of KPIs in relation to the evolving DC landscape. He asks which KPIs are appropriate and how should they be dealt with?

Getting it wrong can be costly

Friday, September 19, 2014

Recently HMRC announced scheme administrators must prove to be ''fit and proper'' before registration is approved, but what does this mean? Aries' Ian Neale finds out.

PPF panels: a big leap forward

Friday, September 12, 2014

Spence & Partners' Alan Collins says that communication has been key to improving service and having the panels and the PPF work together allowed issues to be dealt with immediately.

Digital addiction

Friday, September 5, 2014

"Digital dependence is here to stay," says AHC's Peter Nicholas, but how is the pensions industry reacting to this?

Keep your eye on the ball and follow through

Thursday, August 28, 2014

KBPR's Adam Sewell discusses how pension professionals can complete a successful PR exercise to help them stand out in a crowded industry.

Reckless conservatism

Friday, August 22, 2014

"The lasting impact of certain events of 2008, as well as the tsunami of subsequent regulation, have pushed investors into a state of almost reckless conservatism," says Aurum Funds' Kevin Gundle.

Promotion or relegation?

Friday, August 15, 2014

Likening pensions to football, Spence & Partners' Kevin Burge explores which of the recent pensions initiatives will be promoted and which will be relegated next May.

Beware a wounded Regulator

Friday, August 1, 2014

"My fear is that a wounded Regulator is a dangerous thing," says Premier's John Reeve as the Regulator recently revealed it failed in its target of improving the management of DC arrangements.

Re-framing pensions

Friday, July 25, 2014

The Government has re-framed pensions as long-term savings plans, rather than as a package that pensioners swap for their salaries, says Aries' Ian Neale.

Pensions turned upside down?

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Spence and Partners' Kevin Burge looks at the changing pensions landscape in the UK and Australia and asks who is right?

The school report – value for money?

Friday, July 11, 2014

"Just like high school students, not all pension members are the same," says AHC's Peter Nicholas as he talks about member communications.

Suspect defence and volatile strikers...

Friday, July 4, 2014

"A core principle that remains constant between football teams and portfolio management is the ability to evolve, while applying consistent philosophies and integrity," says Aurum Funds' Iain North.

ETFs - Every Trustee's Future?

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

PTL's Simon Riviere takes a closer look at the pros and cons of exchange traded funds and asks if trustees should be considering them.

World Cup fever

Friday, June 20, 2014

"Experts abound in the pensions world and, like football experts, they too are never shy of an opinion," says Spence & Partners' Kevin Burge as he discusses conflicting specialist advice.

Deflation: we fear you not

Friday, June 13, 2014

"Deflation is misunderstood, particularly by economists and, by extension, investors who subject themselves to the vagaries of economic advice," says Payden & Rygel's Jeffrey Cleveland.

Child's play?

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Investment, technology and retirement – how can the three be combined to encourage the younger generation to save, asks RisCura's Andrew Slater.

Guns don't kill people...

Friday, May 30, 2014

"Freedom of choice is appropriate, even if this includes the freedom to make mistakes," says Premier's John Reeve as he discusses how the Budget has changed the pensions industry in the UK.

Pension Comfort?

Friday, May 23, 2014

Spence & Partners' Kevin Burge discusses the National Employment Savings Trust's (NEST) latest study on comfortable pension levels.

News on annuity sales illustrates two-state pension landscape

Friday, May 9, 2014

"People like choice and people like people who give them choice," says Spence & Partners' Alan Collins as he discusses annuities.

Not just another Bond story...

Friday, May 2, 2014

"Like baseball, the playing field going forward will be based more upon hard work rather than artificial forces," says Aurum Funds' Iain North as he discusses the global bond market.

Conference season for pensions

Monday, April 28, 2014

Spence & Partner's Kevin Burge talks about the start of the conference season for pensions, and how quickly the agendas had to be changed in light of the Chancellor's Budget.

Emerging Markets Fixed Income in 2014 – A Constructive View for the Discriminating Eye

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Payden & Rygel's Ehsan Iraniparast weighs up the pros and cons of emerging markets fixed income in 2014.

Longevity on the rise

Thursday, April 10, 2014

"The subject of longevity has unduly taxed the actuarial profession," says RisCura's Andrew Slater as he asks why forecasting mortality has been so difficult.

Pension liberation made legal?

Monday, April 7, 2014

"It might look like a juicy bone the Government has tossed us, but is it as simple as presented?" asks Aries' Ian Neale as he dissects the Budget.

Shaping the outcome of the pensions revolution

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Spence & Partner's Neil Copeland discusses the ramifications of George Osborne's pensions revolution and says that the most difficult part of the process is yet to come.

The mortgage/pension conundrum

Friday, March 21, 2014

Pensions should be seen as a tool for wealth creation, says AHC's managing director Peter Nicholas as he breaks down the mortgage/pension conundrum that savers face.

A 'do' and a 'don't' for Mr Osborne

Monday, March 17, 2014

Ahead of Wednesday's Budget, Spence & Partners' Alan Collins sets out his suggestions for Chancellor George Osborne regarding pensions.

I love annuities!

Friday, March 7, 2014

"Before we kill the annuity market let's consider that it's not the annuity that is wrong," says Premier's John Reeve as he rebuffs the negative press coverage of annuities.

The auto enrolled, defined ambition, small pot, collective design pension scheme?

Monday, March 3, 2014

"It is very hard to accept that the industry in which I work is a mess, but it is and unless there is a concerted effort by us all it will not get any better," says Spence & Partners' Kevin Burge.

Go easy on Bank of England Governor Mark Carney

Friday, February 21, 2014

"The press loves stories of forecast failures – especially at the expense of central banks. But dwelling on soothsaying errancy misses the point," says Payden & Rygel's Jeffrey Cleveland.

Less is more

Friday, February 14, 2014

"Too much choice is not a good thing," says RisCura's Petri Greeff as he discusses the dangers of being spoilt for choice in defined contribution (DC) schemes.

Independence and Bust?

Friday, February 7, 2014

"When it comes to pensions, Scotland might be better off outside the EU," says Aries' Ian Neale as he considers Scotland's possible independence.

Staying on course with your journey plan

Friday, January 31, 2014

Designing your funding plan is like setting off on a transatlantic voyage by boat, says Spence & Partners' Marian Elliott.

Auto-enrolment: investing in engagement

Friday, January 24, 2014

"As a smaller employer, I see engagement as an investment, rather than an expense," says AHC's Peter Nicholas as he discusses this year's focus for SMEs: auto-enrolment.

Making retirement work

Friday, January 10, 2014

"The capability to meet people's needs is not there", says Aries' Ian Neale as he discusses the current state of the annuity market.

Quality data should be the foundation of the pensions industry

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

"Without good quality data, the industry cannot seek to improve accuracy and efficiency in any area of work carried out," says Spence & Partners' Mark Johnson.

"So here it is merry Christmas, Everybody's having fun"

Monday, December 16, 2013

Slade's Christmas hit in 1973 prompts Payden & Rygel's Jeffrey Cleveland to think about how we will remember 2013 from an investment perspective.

Comms aren't a tickbox – they need measuring too

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

AHC's managing director Peter Nicholas challenges trustees to give as much attention to the measurement of communication as they give to the measurement of investment performance. Top tips will follow next time, so watch this space!

Turning on the Christmas lights

Friday, December 6, 2013

A passing thought of Christmas leads RisCura's Andrew Slater to think about what UK pension schemes can learn from further afield.

I wouldn't start from here

Friday, November 29, 2013

Aries' Ian Neale compares the UK pension system to the one in Australia and ponders what we can learn from 'down under'.

What end of year grade would you give auto enrolment?

Friday, November 22, 2013

It has been a year since auto enrolment has been launched, but after examining the facts what grade has Spence & Partners' Kevin Burge given the project?

Do you have enough global macro in your portfolio?

Friday, November 22, 2013

"It is surprising how few (if any) traditional pension funds allocate to 'discretionary global macro' funds," says Cardano's James Balcombe.

Fundamentally flawed?

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Automatically thinking about asset-only performance as a metric for assessing how well a scheme is doing seems fundamentally flawed, says Cardano's Emma Adair.

Courage and commitment

Friday, November 1, 2013

Long-term investment takes courage and a willingness to hold one's nerve, says Aries' Ian Neale as he discusses pension fund commitments.

Pensions: a contrast in attitudes

Friday, October 25, 2013

HRH Prince Charles and teachers expressed their views on pensions last week. Spence & Partners' John Griffin discusses who appeared to have a better understanding of the problems within the system.

To taper or not to taper

Friday, October 18, 2013

"Keep your eye on the data," says Payden & Rygel's Mark Stanley as he tackles the question: "To taper or not to taper?"

Marabou off the rocks

Friday, October 11, 2013

Pensions are somewhat less developed in Uganda compared to neighbouring countries, but that is all about to change, says RisCura's Andrew Slater.

Choice cuts

Friday, October 4, 2013

"Choice adds complexity, which adds to cost," says Aries' Ian Neale as he looks at the connection between cost, complexity and choice in pension schemes.

Back to the Future

Monday, September 30, 2013

Spence & Partners' Ian Shand looks back at pension schemes in the 40s and 50s, he then contemplates how auto-enrolment can re-boot pensions saving in the future.

We can't unlearn

Friday, September 20, 2013

"We may not be able to unlearn what we know, but there's still time to relearn," says AHC's Peter Nicholas as he discusses member communication in the world of pensions.

Are you trying to drive forward whilst looking through the rear view mirror?

Friday, September 13, 2013

"It's time to plan for the winding road ahead, rather than driving using the rear view mirror," says Cardano's James Balcombe as he discusses a new way of thinking about portfolio construction for pension funds.

Annuity blues

Friday, September 6, 2013

"The future looks grim indeed," says Aries' Ian Neale as he discusses annuity rates.

Scheme sponsors need to get with the times...

Friday, August 30, 2013

"Getting with the times will ensure sponsors and trustees don't miss out," says Spence & Partners' Alan Collins as he discusses pension scheme valuation dates.

I'm Late, I'm Late!

Friday, August 23, 2013

While automatic enrolment dominates the agenda of pensions managers, Premier's Hazel Bloomfield says there is a danger that other deadlines could be marginalised, or may not even be discussed at all.

Turn left, or right, to avoid the hazards and bumps

Friday, August 16, 2013

Zambian pension funds are facing the same challenges as UK schemes, says RisCura's Andrew Slater as he discusses how they are responding to them.

Reverse the charges

Friday, August 9, 2013

"Maybe it's time for the industry to counter-attack, and demonstrate just how much of the charges it imposes on pension savers arises from government and regulatory diktats?" says Aries' Ian Neale.

Charity investments – the lessons from the Wonga story

Monday, August 5, 2013

What lessons can be learnt from the Church of England/Wonga episode? Premier's John Reeve outlines the moral of the story for the charity sector.

Californian jam and pension scheme investments

Friday, August 2, 2013

"It seems that too much choice can be demotivating," says Spence & Partners' Marian Elliott as she discusses the variety of pension scheme investment options that are available.

Professional advisers – securing value for money

Friday, July 26, 2013

"Where does it all go wrong? Advisers who are heroes of happy clients can morph into unworthy villains seemingly overnight," says Muse Advisory's Mark Hodgkinson.

A-reelin' an' a-rockin'

Thursday, July 11, 2013

"Give us a break. Stop rocking the boat and making us all sick. Leave pensions alone," says Aries' Ian Neale as he talks about politicians' constant 'adjustments' of the pensions system.

When I'm 64...

Thursday, July 4, 2013

"Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I'm 64?" sings Spence & Partner's Kevin Burge as he reflects on pensions.

Geezers in the pub talk pensions...

Thursday, June 27, 2013

... and unwittingly highlight the challenge of the drive for more effective pensions communications and greater member engagement, writes Muse Advisory's Mark Hodgkinson.

A modern tale of two cities

Friday, June 21, 2013

"Lagos today looks very different from just five years ago, and it will look very different again in five year's time; ignore it at your peril," says RisCura's Andrew Slater as he discusses investment opportunities in Nigeria.

What kind of protection?

Friday, June 14, 2013

"As an industry, we put a lot of effort into assuring fair Government treatment for high earners. But what about the rest?" asks Aries' Ian Neale as he looks at Individual Protection (IP).

TPR's 2013 funding statement – use the tools at your disposal

Friday, June 7, 2013

Spence & Partners' Alan Collins dissects The Pensions Regulator's (TPR) latest funding statement, and encourages trustees to use the tools at their disposal.

The long-awaited arrival of contract-based governance

Friday, May 31, 2013

"Proper governance of schemes is an essential piece of the puzzle," says Pitmans Trustees' Steve Carrodus as he talks about the emergence of contract-based governance.

Pausing and reflecting on real estate investment strategies for pension funds

Friday, May 24, 2013

Cardano's Richard Urban uses the story of Huckleberry Finn to encourage real estate investors to pause and reflect on their own decision making instead of blindly following "the wisdom of the crowd".

Lack of discretion

Friday, May 17, 2013

"We are now seeing more and more illustrations of the merits of what we have lost," says Aries Pension & Insurance Systems' Ian Neale as he examines pension tax rules.

What's in a name?

Thursday, May 9, 2013

"If you didn't know what Pension Liberation was, it might sound like a good thing," says Spence and Partners' Neil Copeland.

Was Robert Maxwell's timing sub-optimal?

Friday, May 3, 2013

If the Goode Committee were convened today, would it reach the same conclusions about pension scheme governance?

How wrong can Google be?

Friday, April 26, 2013

RisCura's Andrew Slater gives his first-hand experience of Africa, and reflects on the investment opportunities there.

Two Cultures

Thursday, April 18, 2013

The Pensions Regulator (TPR) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) both recognise that they need to work together, but Ian Neale from Aries Pension & Insurance Systems asks how well will the two cultures mesh.

How to drive in India?

Friday, April 12, 2013

If you have ever been to India or watched The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel film sequence where their bus drives straight at the oncoming traffic, you will know that 'driving rules' are few and far between.

Auto-enrolment: can it succeed?

Friday, April 5, 2013

Are we up for the challenges ahead as we move through the auto-enrolment implementation period, asks the Pensions Management Institute's Tim Middleton.

The case for 'smoothing'

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

"Fortunately there is a way for pension funds to smooth their funding levels without having to resort to averaging historical values or other dubious techniques," says Cardano's Helen Prior.

The Budget: what lies beneath

Friday, March 22, 2013

"This was not a pensions-free Budget," says Ian Neale from Aries Pension & Insurance Systems as he gives us some insight into Budget 2013.

5 steps to a better valuation experience

Friday, March 15, 2013

Actuarial valuation. "If the very mention of this sends shivers down your spine then read on," says Spence & Partner's Marian Elliott.

An Affinity with Scale

Monday, March 11, 2013

"How can scale be achieved? And how big is big enough?" asks Muse Advisory's director Mark Hodgkinson.

Auto-enrolment: trust builder or the final nail in the coffin?

Friday, March 1, 2013

"When trust in pensions is at an all time low, one has to ponder about what could happen if auto-enrolment goes wrong," says Atkin & Co.'s Chris Atkin.

Arresting pension dissipation

Friday, February 22, 2013

More and more people are becoming attracted to the idea of breaking open their pension piggy bank as the way out of debt.

Turn left at Robert Mugabe

Friday, February 15, 2013

RisCura's Andrew Slater travels to Namibia to see a pension fund client, and poses the question: "Have we gone wrong in the UK to see pensions through such a distorted lens?"

Planning for accountability

Friday, February 8, 2013

Just when you have a good idea for your next blog, someone steps in and pulls the rug from under you. At least, that's how I felt last week when last week's Pensions Week appeared on my screen.

The unnecessary search for the genuine all-rounder

Monday, February 4, 2013

"Genuine all-rounders are rare," states Cardano's Steve Catchpole as he likens pension fund assets to cricket players.

The 'death spiral' of QE on pensions

Monday, February 4, 2013

The Pension Investment Academy (PIA) summaries points made by Dr Ros Altmann, SAGA director general, at its seminar last week on the effects of quantitative easing (QE) on pension funds.

Controlling pension transfers

Friday, January 25, 2013

The draft Pensions Bill is not entirely about state pension reform.

The more you spin it, the less we trust you, Mr Webb

Friday, January 25, 2013

The Government needs a clear communications policy to cut through the pensions spin.

Talking DC Governance (at the pearly gates)

Friday, January 11, 2013

Mark Hodgkinson, director at Muse Advisory, uses an alternative tale to encourage trustees to think about how they can improve DC governance, before it's too late...

Moving away from unrealistic pension projections

Friday, January 4, 2013

Time to get the soap box out. Why do we persist in making pension projections to age 65? As life expectancy increases, these projections produce ever increasing contribution rates, required to provide what is deemed as a reasonable level of income.

Incentives to save

Thursday, January 3, 2013

In my previous article I looked at the single positive commitment in the DWP paper "Reinvigorating Workplace Pensions" (aka 'defined ambition', or 'DA'). The rest of it read like a summary research paper of what might be done. Absent throughout was any recognition of the general rule that people will only do more than they have to do if there is an incentive.

Master trusts – the way to grey

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Remember when pink was the new black? No? I don't either – but fashions and fashion statements come and go (thank goodness – no more kipper tiers) and we give them the attention they deserve – which is very little. My contention for 2013 is that "Grey is the new grey."

Advising on Advisers

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

One of the 'must do' and 'must get right' activities for pension fund trustees is the selection, appointment and review of professional advisers and other service providers. Mark Hodgkinson, director at Muse Advisory sets out the best approach.

Golf and trusteeship: the basics

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Richard Butcher, managing director at Pitmans Trustees, gives us the top 5 assonances for DB governance.

Beware the false security of a flight path, improve your current strategy

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Hardly a week goes by without me receiving marketing material aimed at helping trustees to put in place some form of 'dynamic de-risking' flight path. The theory is simple enough; trustees want to take less risk, just not now. My fear is that these plans rely on mankind's natural optimistic tendencies and in the end boil down to making us feel better about doing nothing.

The road to engagement

Friday, November 30, 2012

The DWP's red tape review identified the Disclosure of Information Regs as the sole information item that needs serious reviewing, but, even if this is the case, Aries director Ian Neale asks: "Will this typical painfully-long gestation actually give birth to real simplification next year?"

Are Trustees really trying hard enough?

Friday, November 23, 2012

Human interactions are fascinating. Why do we 'click' with some people? Do we make all our business decisions rationally or is there an element of, "well, she/he seemed a really trustworthy person"?

Reinventing the chairman

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Everyone knows what the chairman does.....right? Well, perhaps not!

Three little words: Guaranteed Minimum Pension

Thursday, November 8, 2012

So what red hot pensions topic have I chosen to write about for my first blog? The answer: TPR's recent recommendation that a tolerance level of £2 should be adopted when schemes reconcile their Guarantee Minimum Pension records with those of the National Insurance to Pensions Industry (NISPI). I fear a rather ignominious start to my blogging career....

Pensions legislation: enough already?

Friday, November 2, 2012

Though many promises have been made over the years to simplify pension regulation, the current situation is one of a near hair-pulling magnitude. Will we see more legislation coming our way in the next year or will the Government finally deliver on their simplification promises?

"What's age got to do with it?"

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Pensions is a numbers game – but most people don't 'like' numbers.

What are the attributes of a high performing trustee board?

Friday, October 12, 2012

Why should pension scheme members accept a lower standard of assessment of trustee board effectiveness than those same trustees expect from the boards of UK companies? Mark Hodgkinson discusses the various attributes a trustee board should incorporate in order to achieve the highest possible standards.

Property for pensions? Welcome back Stone Age!

Thursday, October 4, 2012

In the Stone Age, people invested in their children, passing on the family cave and nurturing their family as a means of ensuring that they were looked after in their old age. Either that or they were pushed out and left to starve. But let's stick with the romantic view!

Eyes on the Prize

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Ian Neale, director at Aries Pensions UK, discusses how we could solve the small pots problem by giving people a clear overview of what they have accumulated over the years. But who would be in charge of this operation?

Despite national differences, challenges are common at EU level

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Having regard to current EU initiatives which focus on pensions in Europe, this year and the next look to be the most intense and challenging years for pension provision in Europe that we will have seen for some time, says Patrick Burke, chairman of the EFRP.

Keep calm and communicate

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

The Government expects changes to public servants benefits to save an estimated £430bn over the next 50 years or so. That's a lot of money! Are they ready to accept that change? Well, perhaps if they understand it, argues Mark Belchamber, director at Shilling Communication.

What makes DC governance different?

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

In a new series of blogs, Mark Hodgkinson, director at Muse Advisory, talks us through the process of good governance for DC schemes. Who gains and who pays?

Missing Documentation - the pensions game of 'hide and seek'

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Always a favourite with children around the world is the classic game of hide and seek. The game needs no fancy gadgets, there are only a few rules and everyone knows how to play it. And what's more, it's good fun!

To have and to hold: dealing with 'small pots'

Friday, August 31, 2012

Auto-enrolment is about to suck many people into pensions for the first time, so the Government is anxious to make it work and minimise opt-outs. Engagement is going to be key: convincing workers that pension saving is worthwhile.

Talking about whose generation?

Thursday, August 23, 2012

A well-known song by the Who from 1964 is about "my generation". Included in this is the morbid desire of "I hope I die before I get old". That may well be some people's reaction when they see how much (or how little) their retirement income is projected to be.

Pension industry faces Olympian challenge

Monday, July 30, 2012

It is not just the Olympics that will be bringing obstacles to overcome, hurdles to leap and targets to be beaten in 2012. The retirement benefits industry will face its own Olympian challenge this year too.

QE's collateral damage

Friday, July 6, 2012

Fraser Smart, managing director at Buck Consultants walks us through the effects that quantitative easing has on pension schemes and pensioners - are they seen as collateral damage?

Blog: Could pensions longevity risk sink UK?

Thursday, April 26, 2012

It's been an even more exciting week than usual for actuaries.

"Budget: a mathematical confirmation of your suspicions."

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

A.A. Latimer might not have meant for the quote to be used in last week's parliamentary setting but it certainly applies. No real surprises; we're broke and we need to save money.

DWP fly over the Cuckoo's NEST...

Thursday, March 1, 2012

The DWP has asked whether NEST should be the default provider for millions of small pension pots - are they mad?

Finger on button won't solve pensions time bomb

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

It's nothing personal, but I don't think the red button on the TV remote will make the final cut when the list of great 21st century inventions is announced.

Are employers really on auto-pilot?

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Transport-related metaphors spring up all the time when analysts and commentators talk about business practices.

Bonus bashing is the mob's job

Monday, February 6, 2012

A collective cold shudder of fear went through the City last week after seeing Fred Goodwin being stripped of his Knighthood and RBS execs give up on their bonus. "So were will this leave us?" you could almost hear executives whispering on the freezing streets of London. Well, as far as possible action from the Government goes, I would not worry too much if I were you.

Tuning up for auto-enrolment

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

This is a public service announcement...with guitars! Thus screeched Joe Strummer on the Clash's 1982 "Know Your Rights", if not the best rock intro in history, then definitely one of the better ones.

Too little, too late

Thursday, January 19, 2012

The Italian cruise ship Costa Concordia ran aground last week, killing several passengers and crew members. But the disaster could have been averted

New-look Pension Funds Online is launched

Friday, December 2, 2011

You may have noticed that Pension Funds Online looks a bit different. That's because we've been hard at work here at Wilmington on improving the services we offer you. The result is the new Pension Funds Online website, which offers users better functionality and more data

Is there hope for 'third way' schemes in the UK?

Monday, November 28, 2011

This week Pension Funds Insider spoke to former chairman of the National Association of Pension Funds and the European Federation for Retirement Provision, Alan Pickering, and sought his opinion how pension schemes can negotiate these volatile times

Van Nunen: Fiduciary management works

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

This week Pension Funds Insider caught up with the spiritual father of fiduciary management Anton van Nunen about the rise of fiduciary management and the changes the concept has brought to the consulting market

NOW:Pensions - entering the UK at the right time?

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Pension Funds Insider talks to Morten Nilsson, the former head of International Operations for ATP, the Danish pension provider and new CEO-elect for NOW:Pensions. The latter is the new multi employer trust supported by ATP and the first real competitorto NEST - the UK Government-backed national pension scheme.

Norwegian fund sails through crisis

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

This week Pension Funds Insider spoke to Paal August Nordhagen who is chief investment officer at Norway's Akershus County Council Pension Fund. The fund is currently worth NOK 9.53bn (€1.21bn) and has roughly 25.000 members. Because, unlike some other schemes, it came out on top after the first crisis we asked Nordhagen about his views and strategies on dealing with the current Eurozone troubles

ABP: We're not there yet

Monday, October 17, 2011

With 2.8 million members from the educational and public sector, ABP is the Netherlands' biggest pension fund. At the end of March 2011 the scheme had an invested capital of €239 billion and although its 2010 results were not as strong as in 2009, the scheme seems to be moving forward. Pension Funds Insider recently asked ABP's vice president, Xander den Uyl (pictured), how he views the fund's future.

PFZW: "We can learn from our members"

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Pensioenfonds Zorg en Welzijn (PFZW) is the pension fund for the care and welfare sector in the Netherlands. Formally known as PGGM, the policy-making and administration sides of the fund were split into two legally separate organisations in 2008, leading to the creation of PFZW. Pension Funds Insider recently caught up with Peter Borgdorff (pictured), managing director of one of the country's largest pension schemes.

AP3 pension fund: think in risks not assets

Thursday, October 13, 2011

AP3, part of the Swedish state-owned pension fund group, is charged with generating "maximum possible benefit for the pension system by managing fund capital so as to deliver strong investment returns at a low level of risk". AP3's asset portfolio was valued at SEK 220.8 billion on 31 December 2010. Pension Funds Insider recently asked CEO Kerstin Hessius (pictured), how she has managed to get the fund to be considered a shining example of good responsible investment.

Giles Payne: Independent trustee

Thursday, October 13, 2011

HR Trustees provides independent trusteeship services to pension schemes 'in difficulty'. Pension Funds Insider recently spoke to the firm's director, Giles Payne, to find out his views on the obstacles facing pension funds in the UK.

APK's CEO: "Our active approach isn't dogmatic"

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Christian Böhm, is CEO of the Austrian multi-employer fund APK. He recently revealed the 'secrets' behind his scheme's strong returns to Pension Funds Insider and what he thinks needs to be done in Europe to improve our chances of surviving the ongoing financial crisis