07 January 2026
15 min
We expect big changes for trustees and sponsors of defined benefit (DB) pension schemes in 2026. New legislation, regulation and market developments are expected to bring both challenges and opportunities.
The range of DB endgame options is wider than ever. Trustees and sponsors must make complex decisions before shaping plans for their scheme’s future, focusing on member outcomes and broader corporate goals while capturing opportunities created by the government’s plans. Regulatory requirements that we expect to impact schemes include the Pensions Regulator’s DB funding code, now in its second year, and ‘own risk assessments’ .
We expect the risk transfer market to break records again as schemes look to convert buy-ins to buy-outs faster than ever. Any scheme approaching the insurance market must have insurance-ready data. Innovations from insurers and administrators make this easier, but good data remains essential for all endgames.
Read our full publication which takes a look at what's in store for the risk transfer market, governance, trusteeship, and corporate sponsors in 2026.
If you’d like to discuss anything further or have any questions, contact one of our experts or get in touch here.
Important information
This publication is based upon our understanding of events as at the date of publication. It is a general summary of topical matters and should not be regarded as financial advice. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice on specific circumstances and objectives. Where this publication refers to legal matters please note that Hymans Robertson LLP is not qualified to provide legal opinion and therefore you may wish to obtain independent legal advice to consider any relevant law and/or regulation.
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