PITstop

The DB Scheme Buy-In to Buy-Out Journey: Key Insights and Challenges

In our latest PITstop, Jo Gyte is joined by Anthea Whitton, Professional Trustee at Capital Cranfield, to chat about how DB pension schemes can move from buy-in to buy-out, and eventually wind-up.

With a surge in buy-in transactions leading to a record breaking number of schemes moving to buy-out and many facing delays, the importance of early preparation, data cleansing and strong project management is key.

Anthea shared examples from her own experience of the challenges of managing unexpected surplus refunds before wind-up. The conversation then went on to explore the importance of selecting insurers with reliable administration and ensuring clear, jargon-free communications to members.

Ongoing engagement and communication among trustees, sponsors, and insurers is highly important. Also having a dedicated individual with relevant experience to oversee the process and ensure alignment and momentum throughout. Anthea finishes by sharing some top tips for schemes starting their buyout journeys.

Flipping the spectrum of capital: should we all do more impact investing?

Sanjay Joshi, Responsible Investment Consultant at Hymans, chats to Bobby Riddaway, Managing Partner at HS Trustees, on why pension scheme trustees should prioritise sustainability and impact investing. 

What is the most important thing for trustees to consider when investing responsibly, and why should trustees view climate action as their primary responsibility? 

Bobby and Sanjay cover the importance of investing in climate solutions to support the UK’s energy transition, and address barriers to impact investing, including the burden of regulatory reporting.