News

UK - Communication is higher on pension funds' agenda than returns, according to studies by Higham Dunnet Shaw (HDS) which highlighted the need to improve trustee knowledge and understanding.

FTSE100 companies could be understating pension deficits by up to £60bn because future improvements in longevity are being underestimated massively, latest research reveals.

TYRE maker Michelin is planning to close its final salary pension scheme to existing members after a sharp rise in its shortfall.

AUSTRALIA - The Future Fund has appointed Northern Trust as its global custodian after what was described as a "comprehensive and rigorous process".

A new general statement for scheme administration standards has been launched in a bid to help restore public confidence in pensions.

CLAIMS that taxpayers will have to pick up the bill for the £10bn shortfall in public sector pensions have been dismissed by the Treasury.

NETHERLANDS - Aegon has increased its value of new business (VNB) in the first quarter by 77% to £39m according to its Q1 results.

THE pensions industry should use the introduction of personal accounts to provide better and more effective options for people, consultant Towers Perrin Tillinghast says.

TRUSTEES at EDF Energy are considering adopting a liability-driven investment strategy, Professional Pensions has learned.

MSCI Barra is to launch a global family of Islamic indices designed to reflect Sharia investment principles.