Podcast: The Pensions Regulator should take a “softly-softly” approach to defined contribution consolidation, similar to what happened with master trusts during the authorisation process, where subtle conversations occurred and schemes decided to exit in an orderly manner, according to Adrian Boulding, director of policy at Now Pensions. He and Rosalind Connor, partner at Arc Pensions Law, discuss the response from the watchdog to its consultation of the future of trusteeship and governance, among other topics.

Activists protesting against France’s pension reforms storm BlackRock’s Paris headquarters, while experts warn investors facing plunging equity holdings against taking knee-jerk reactions to the coronavirus outbreak. Read our round-up of pensions and finance news from the FT’s global outlets.

Podcast: Government and regulators should rethink schemes’ chair statements, as they have become a regulatory compliance tool for the pensions industry, according to Darren Philp, director of policy and communications at Smart Pension, and Judith Fish, professional trustee at Dalriada Trustees. The experts discuss, among other subjects, the recent fine received by the Financial Conduct Authority from the Pensions Regulator due to pension failures.

Podcast: Trustees and employers should consult members on their beliefs, and incorporate the investment views of the majority in their pension default fund, according to Romi Savova, chief executive at PensionBee, and David Brooks, technical director at Broadstone. The experts discuss the impacts of a landmark ruling finding that veganism is a philosophical belief, alongside other topics, in this week’s podcast.

While Brexit is set to dominate the political agenda again in 2020, for the pensions industry there is another major shift on the horizon that could have a profound impact on funding levels and outcomes for members.