Latest articles from Sophia Imeson

Advice suitable but disclosure too complex, finds FCA

The Financial Conduct Authority has published the findings from its review into the suitability of pensions and investment advice, but while the results are reassuring, experts say more needs to be done to make advice less convoluted.

Manchester University upgrades investment strategy

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Trustees of the Manchester University Superannuation Scheme have adopted a new liability-driven investment strategy, while dropping a UK equity mandate in favour of global equities.

Blockchain and bitcoin: Trustees urged to adapt to change

Source: Bloomberg

Many are still unfamiliar with the concept of bitcoin and blockchain, but experts say the pensions industry must engage with technology and accept change to adapt to an increasingly digital world.

What the DB green paper might (not) change

As the deadline for the consultation on defined benefit security and sustainability approaches, what are the industry's hopes – and fears – for the DB framework?

Should trustees review their advisers more often?

Analysis: There are myriad tasks involved in running a scheme, so time is precious and efficiency is key. But when it comes to evaluating advice, how can trustees measure performance, and should they be reviewing their consultants more frequently?  

Suffolk scheme fills gaps with greenfield infra

Suffolk goes green

The Suffolk Pension Fund has added to its alternatives allocation, including a commitment to illiquid credit and an investment in a greenfield infrastructure fund, as experts have highlighted the importance of good governance when investing in illiquids.

Small employers urged to plan ahead as more miss staging deadline

A rising number of small employers are missing their auto-enrolment staging deadline, a new study has shown, as experts highlight the importance of being prepared and planning ahead to make sure employees benefit from a pension. 

MPs call for government to put brakes on 'free riding' gig economy firms

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The Work and Pensions Committee has called for employee and self-employed national insurance contributions to be equalised, arguing that following the introduction of the new state pension, the self-employed contribute far less.

Vauxhall boosts LDI and DGFs in scheme overhaul

Vauxhall restructures asset allocation

The Vauxhall pension plan has restructured its asset allocation by increasing exposure to liability-driven investments and diversified growth funds, as experts agree these are “sensible” steps to take.

Annuity purchasers regret decision as confusion 'remains rife'

Despite widespread confusion, most defined contribution savers are happy with the retirement choices they have made in light of the introduction of freedom and choice, with the exception of those who have purchased an annuity, a survey has found.