September had an intense back-to-school vibe with a plethora of networking events, awards ceremonies and conferences. My third and final article for MandateWire outlining the impact of the current macroeconomic environment on UK’s closed defined benefit schemes was published. The latest piece for IPE examining the role of commodities in pension scheme portfolios was also out this month. I was dead chuffed to receive Highly Commended for DC Pensions Journalist of the Year at the WTW Media Awards! And I held my latest networking event where we discussed whether auto-enrolment pension schemes should be impact investors. I will be hosting my next event on Tuesday, 8th November so get in touch if you would like to attend. Do your clients think you are greenwasher? Take this quiz to find out.
Consultants advise schemes to review their investment strategy amid rising rates
My third and final article for MandateWire looking at the impact of the current macroeconomic environment on the UK’s closed defined benefit schemes examines whether schemes should change their investment strategy. While trustees have limited room for manoeuvre given the regulatory environment, a more benign interest rate environment has opened up options for these schemes.
Commodities show their value
While only a few pension schemes have an allocation to commodities, they have benefitted from this investment in recent months, says my latest piece for IPE. Not only will this asset class provide helpful inflation protection but as the green transition progresses, commodity prices look likely to be higher in the past, giving good reason for pension schemes to reconsider an allocation.
Highly Commended for DC Pensions Journalist of the Year
After a pandemic-related hiatus of several years, it was great to be back on the 23rd floor in Lime Street for the WTW Awards. We got to admire the fantastic views of the City and Tower Bridge as well as catch up with fellow journalists. The evening was made all the sweeter by winning Highly Commended for DC Pensions Journalist of the year for these two articles. The FT’s consumer editor, Claer Barrett – who scooped the main prize – and I were all smiles about our achievements. I’ve used my £50 prize money to buy myself a bottle of Chanel No. 5 so I can smell of winning all winter long!
Should auto-enrolled pension schemes be impact investors?
There was a lively discussion at the latest networking event where Charlotte O’Leary and Nicholas Smith discussed whether auto-enrolled pension schemes should be impact investors. We defined impact investing as having the intention to create measurable positive change while also generating good returns. We agreed this was a good match for auto-enrolment schemes but that it was hard for pension funds to adopt this approach because of cost constraints and hoped things with changed as this industry matured. The next networking event will be on Tuesday, 8th November so get in touch if you would like to attend.
Avoid being labelled a greenwasher
Credibility is vital to building trust with potential and current clients. That’s true for any asset manager but especially important for those who want to be perceived as a best-in-class sustainable investment manager. To avoid being labelled a greenwasher you need a clear purpose and a way to communicate that vision. I created this quiz to identify your current sustainable investment strengths and weaknesses. It helps you to improve so you can stay ahead of your competitors. Curious? Then take the test! It’s only 15 questions and takes only three minutes.
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