First Group has reported an increase in its pension deficit in the first half of the year, but says trading is “in line with expectations”.

The government-backed Star Initiative has reached 50 signatories, surpassing its initial target of 30. Holly Roach looks at the project’s progress.

Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC) has agreed a £750m bulk annuity transaction, converting a pensioner longevity swap held by the Scottish Hydro Electric Pension Scheme (SHEPS) into a buy-in.

The People’s Pension (TPP) has urged the next government to improve saving for low paid workers and increase pension transparency ahead of the 12 December general election.

For the pensions industry, the 12 December general election means the long-awaited pensions bill is “lost”, but probably “not forgotten”, according to a blog published by law firm Gowling.

The Pensions Climate Risk Industry Group is drafting trustee guidance on climate-related issues and how they can address the risks as part of their governance processes.

Mercer has offered a $125m (£97m) mandate to Impax Asset Management’s Leaders Strategy to join its Sustainable Global Equity Fund, following a rigorous selection process.

The quality and availability of data is the “weakest link” for the pensions dashboard, according to the Society of Pension Professionals (SPP).

Aviva Investors has entered into a further agreement with the Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) to invest £250m in commercial property in Cambridge.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced it will publish its long-awaited tax guidance specific to guaranteed minimum pension (GMP) equalisation in December.