Newsmakers
Conflicting Data on Corporate Pension Funded Status for May
Some consultants report an increase in funded ratios, others report a decrease, while others report minimal change.
Tag: Mercer
Newsmakers
Willis Towers Watson, State Street Join AlphaNasdaq OCIO Indices
The two asset managers bring the total number of providers in the collection to 46.
Newsmakers
Canadian, UK DB Plans Improve Despite Market Volatility and Inflation
Rising bond yields more than offset investment losses to reduce pension liabilities.
Newsmakers
U.S. Corporate Pension Funds Remain Steady in February
However, funded levels are likely to be lower in March as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine roils markets.
Asset Management Culture
Op-Ed: Investors Have More to Do If They Really Want to Help Address Systemic Racism
Capital allocators must understand the importance of supporting positive change that benefits their stakeholders and society at large, sustainable investing experts argue.
Alternatives
Real Estate Offers Opportunities for Private Market Investors in 2021
Mercer says investors should increase their risk appetite and consider allocating to real estate this year.
Coronavirus - COVID-19
COVID-19 Spurs Economic Policy, Investment Trends Acceleration
While some changes induced by the pandemic will fade away, others are here to stay.
Pensions
GE Agrees to $1.7 Billion Buyout; BBC Pension Secures £3 Billion Longevity Swap
Athene will provide annuity benefits to approximately 70,000 GE retirees.
Pensions
US, UK Corporate Pension Deficits Widen Due to Falling Equity Markets
Rising discount rates were not enough to offset markets spooked in October by surging COVID-19 cases.
Research
Netherlands, Denmark Repeat as World’s Top-Ranked Pension Systems
Study finds COVID-19 pandemic is expected to widen the gender gap as women make up more than half of hardest hit sectors.
Manager Selection
How Investment Teams Waste Their Time
It would be better spent on due diligence, instead of meaningless scut work, say Backstop and Mercer.
Asset Management Culture
Pension Buyouts a Relative Bargain, Says Mercer
Tweaking of Pension Buyout Index shows annuity buyouts cost less than accounting liabilities.
Asset Management Culture
ESG Becoming the New Normal for European Pensions
The vast majority of pensions now consider the environmental, social, and governance risks to their investments.
Manager Selection
Conducting Due Diligence During a Pandemic
Mercer-Backstop alliance allows asset allocators to kick the tires on investments remotely.
Research
UK Corporate Pension Funding Hammered by Pandemic in April
FTSE 350 company plans swing to £52 billion deficit from £10 billion surplus during the month.