Latest articles from Tom Dines

Regulator's DC self-assessment tool gets cautious welcome

Industry figures have welcomed the governance 'nudge' provided by the Pensions Regulator's self-assessment tools, but questioned whether schemes can hold themselves to account.

How the pension fraud action group will tackle scam increase

The Pension Liberation Industry Group will develop a code of practice on pension transfers to protect trustees, as liberation schemes find new ways of targeting members. 

Lloyds derisks to stabilise scheme funding

One of Lloyds Bank's defined benefit pension funds has increased its allocation to bonds in an effort to boost stability, as European regulation puts pressure on bank sponsors to reduce volatility.

Schemes weigh up long-term value in Japanese equities

News analysis: Despite recent turbulence, Japanese economic prospects opened the window for pension schemes to invest in the country's equities market, consultants have said – provided investors approach it with caution.

Bulk annuity growth could tackle competition gap

New analysis: More insurers are expected to join the bulk annuities market to meet growing demand from pension funds, after concerns were raised over competition in the sector. 

PPF to coinvest in private debt to diversify credit portfolio

The Pension Protection Fund is looking for two investment managers to coinvest in a direct lending strategy in a bid to diversify its credit portfolio and maintain more control over investments.

Less than a quarter of 2014 stagers ready for auto-enrolment

News analysis: Only 23 per cent of employers staging for auto-enrolment in the first half of 2014 have confirmed their provider and completed everything necessary to be ready to comply, data has shown.  

Tracking the rise and uncertainty of responsible investment

Socially responsible investment is undoubtedly gaining popularity among both asset managers and trustees – but its continued growth rests on a Law Commission review of fiduciary duty.

Thales commits £1.6bn to scheme after funding drop

Thales UK pension scheme has enhanced its recovery plan following a deterioration of its funding position due to low interest rates.

OCS uses postponement to manage AE risks, sees 10% opt-out

CBI conference 2014: Facilities provider OCS Group profited from the statutory three-month auto-enrolment postponement to find solutions to its tricky work patterns and variable earnings, when it staged last year.