The risk-transfer market continues to build momentum across its various products. With new entrants expected in 2024 and a supportive regulatory backdrop, the risk transfer market is set to be one of the most dynamic corners of the DB pensions industry this year.

We are pleased to share the following insights from across our Group – Cardano UK (Advisory and Investment), Cardano NL, and NOW: Pensions – looking ahead to what’s in store for 2024.

This quarters Covenant Quarterly edition features articles on alternative de-risking, third-party ESG rating divergence, ‘Ask the Analyst’ which features what is upcoming in 2024, and an overview of the Autumn Statement 2023.

In this approaching endgame differently video series, we outline the different types of pension scheme risks and how Cardano can help you deliver the right risk solution. 

Clara’s first consolidator transaction is a significant milestone for the pensions industry. This deal moves the goalposts and gives another alternative to buyout much needed credence. What does this all mean for pension schemes and endgame?

While it’s true that many companies are currently enjoying record pension scheme surpluses, many other schemes are facing significant pension deficits and weaker covenants. As the cost of debt refinancing climbs, those problems will only intensify.

In our latest Covenant Quarterly, we discuss the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s first Mansion House speech. We also cover debt maturities, the ISSB framework and the implications of funded reinsurance.

For many UK pension schemes, the current macro-economic environment has brought their endgame into sharp focus. Whilst buyout is often seen to deliver the ‘gold standard’ of protection to members and, for many schemes remains a sensible option, trustees and their sponsors should take the opportunity to consider the alternative routes available. In this article, Adolfo Aponte, Managing Director at Cardano Advisory, explores the merits of buyout and how trustees can challenge herd mentality.

In our latest perspective piece, Michael McElligott and Hamish Reeves discuss the need for contingency planning and scenario testing as M&A starts to increase.

In this series of our bite-size videos, we consider how pension schemes and their stakeholders have been impacted by the rapid improvements in scheme funding resulting from the recent rise in gilt yields.

Is our employer covenant robust and sustainable enough? That’s a question trustees of defined benefit (DB) pension schemes in Ireland should be asking on a regular basis. While this question is always relevant to DB pension schemes, recent regulatory changes have guided trustees to look at it more closely going forward. Michael McElligott, Director, shares his thoughts.