All Defined contribution articles – Page 129
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News
Minimum wage hike threatens employer contributions
Pension provision could suffer under the higher minimum wage being introduced next year as employer industry bodies say companies are looking at the wider rewards package in an attempt to claw back costs.
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NewsEMD: Good diversifier or not the right time?
News Analysis: Nest’s recent move into emerging market debt could signal an opportunity for other schemes following the summer sell-offs, but advisers have warned that choosing the right countries and managers is critical.
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OpinionThe AE commission and consultancy charges conundrum
Who pays the tab for auto-enrolment remains a tricky problem. Perhaps it is time to look Down Under for the solution, says Mercer’s Gail Philippart.
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OpinionScheme fragmentation more stark in private sector than public
Data Crunch: The appointment last month of Edi Truell as the London Mayor’s new adviser on pensions and investments is part of an initiative, we are told, to amalgamate some of the country’s numerous public sector pension funds and aims to save billions of pounds through greater efficiencies, lower fees and improved returns.
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OpinionHow to build flexibility into your DC scheme
Pension freedom can be a daunting proposition for trust-based DC schemes, but PTL’s Alison Bostock says they can find ways to introduce more choice for members.
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News
Cash leads the way on freedoms but further flux predicted
More than half of the £2.5bn withdrawn by pension savers in the three months since April has been paid out in cash lump sums, but experts predict consumers will shift their focus towards more sophisticated products.
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FeaturesDB closures 'storing up issues' for DC
News Analysis: The closure of defined benefit pension schemes may alleviate a significant financial burden, but experts have urged employers to think carefully about the long-term impact of the replacement arrangements chosen for affected employees.
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OpinionTreasury: Building on the success of the freedoms
Talking Head: Pension freedoms are off to a positive start, says the Treasury’s Harriet Baldwin, but individuals still need help finding financial advice.
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News
BBC to lay on financial advice for members looking at transfers
The BBC is to offer paid-for independent financial advice to help members get the most from the pension freedoms, in particular to support those considering transferring their assets.
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NewsCambridge uni scheme scrutinises opt-outs in prep for re-enrolment
Cambridge University Assistants’ Contributory Pension Scheme is examining the causes of opt-outs as it prepares to re-enrol members into its hybrid scheme next year.
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OpinionWhy the power of IGCs should not be underestimated
Investment governance committees lack the power of a trustee board, says Sackers’ Helen Ball, but they can still change workplace pensions for the better.
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News
Between two boards: Balancing the dual roles of exec and trustee
The broader experience of financial directors and company executives may enhance pension trustee boards' insight and understanding, but conflicts of interest should be carefully managed.
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OpinionSPP: Tax does have to be taxing
Talking Head: A move to tax pensions like Isas is on the cards with far-reaching consequences for long-term saving, says the Society of Pension Professionals’ Duncan Buchanan.
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NewsEvents and training for pension managers and trustees – Aug 24
Get your calendar in order with this rolling bookmark of upcoming events and training opportunities, targeting pension scheme managers and trustees.
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FeaturesManaging relationships with your auditor
Any other business: Having your scheme audited might feel like getting teeth pulled but like the dentists of this world, auditors are a necessary evil.
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NewsIs your scheme spending enough time on administration?
Any Other Business: Trustees of pension schemes are required to oversee all aspects of scheme administration while navigating the complexities of investment, policy change and benefit design.
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NewsEvents and training for pension managers and trustees – Aug 9
Get your calendar in order with this fortnightly bookmark of upcoming events and training opportunities, targeting pension scheme managers and trustees.
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News
High-earner tax relief threat poses new challenge for employers
News analysis: Scrapping tax breaks for high earners could present a communication challenge for trustees, as the government weighs up ideas for potentially radical reforms of the current pension tax relief system.
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News
Out of reach: How can we close the trustee skills gap?
Any Other Business: If you’re reading this as a trustee and wondering why so many questions are being asked about the future of the role, chances are you’re among the fraction receiving ongoing formal training.
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Opinion10 points every IGC should consider when judging VFM
From the blog: Independent governance committees have been tasked with assessing the value for money of their provider’s workplace personal pension plans.