News

SWEDEN - AP1's fixed income and alternative investments generated positive returns in the first half of 2008, despite a total negative return of -8%.

Tube Lines chief warns of Metronet pension cost; Pensions rate switch adds to the liabilities burden; Henderson warns of tough year ahead; BSkyB chief exec Jeremy Darroch's pay package nears £2m; Economists forecast year of recession in 2009

US - Gains made during bull markets are significantly greater than the losses incurred during bear market cycles, meaning long term investors should hold steady during times of market turbulence, according to research by Putnam Investments.

DC contribution levels are remaining static despite the tough economical climate, Fidelity International says.

Member rights could be affected if plans to re-think the risk-based levy result in underfunded pension schemes offloading growth assets, the Occupational Pensions Trusts warns.

Prysmian Cable workers are set be balloted on amendments to the company's defined benefit pension scheme, it has been revealed.

Scottish Life has re-launched a range of support materials for employers and advisers to help them establish successful salary sacrifice schemes.

UK - The number of employees whose defined benefit (DB) pension schemes are held by buyout players will rise to 180,000 by the end of the year, HSBC Actuaries and Consultants (HACL) has predicted.

DENMARK - ATP has announced plans to raise all pensions and pension commitments by 2%, despite recording a net loss of DKK7.3bn (US$1.44bn) in the first half of 2008.

Standard Life has extended the range of investment options available for its individual, group and wrap self-invested personal pension plans.