Global Pension Funds Update

An in-depth look at some of the world's biggest allocators

The challenges facing pension funds matter for the rest of the global financial markets. These are some of the biggest allocators worldwide. When they move the money they manage on behalf of pension policy holders, asset prices move with them. So, in this Top Pick, we have decided to bring to light some of the latest research on pension funds from around the globe.

Global Pension Finance Watch (WTW)

The Global Pension Finance Watch is published each quarter, providing managers and allocators with timely insights into some of the key global pension markets.

Financial Planning Perspectives: Managing Household Liquidity (Vanguard)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in the United States

Saving for retirement is becoming increasingly challenging. Are recent legislative efforts frustrating or aiding U.S. households' efforts?

Defined Contribution Plan Governance Models: A Guide for Plan Sponsors (DCIIA)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in the United States

It is often stated that regulation and litigation can slow or restrict innovation. The evolution of the plan governance changes described here could be the exception to the rule.

ESG and Climate Change for Pension Funds in 2023 (Sackers)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in the United Kingdom

The compatibility of trustee fiduciary duties with the consideration of ESG issues has been discussed for many years. Has the industry's view on this matter changed?

Superannuation Choice Heatmap (APRA)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in certain geographies

The APRA-regulated superannuation industry has grown significantly in recent years and has almost $2 trillion in member benefits.

2023 Corporate Pension Funding Study (Milliman)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in the United States

Pension funds in 2022 saw significant investment losses, returning -18.6%, when the expectation was a FY2022 investment return of 5.8%.

Australia's Superannuation Industry Under Pressure for Consolidation (Ashurst)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in certain geographies

Consolidation of the superannuation industry is not a recent idea. The process has been underway for almost twenty years.

Limited Price Indexation 101: Between The Cap And The Floor (LGIM)

For compliance reasons, this paper is NOT accessible in the United States and Canada

Most UK DB pension schemes have benefits linked to Limited Price Indexation (LPI), which means liabilities are indexed to either RPI or CPI, subject to a cap and a floor.

A Textual Analysis of Pension Funds’ Disclosures of Sustainable Investing (ECGI)

Pension funds with a positive belief about sustainable investing are more likely to sign the International Responsible Business Conduct (IRBC) initiative.

Lessons from LDI for Scheme Governance and Risk Management Models (PLSA)

For compliance reasons, this paper is only accessible in the United Kingdom

One of the biggest struggles for trustees is the Taskforce for Climate Financial Disclosure (TCFD) regulation, which is perceived as rather excessive and costly.