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The market’s risk-on mentality has led to tighter credit spreads and decreased equity premiums. This has occurred alongside negative real yields in the US and other markets and central banks signaling a continuation of accommodative policies for the foreseeable future. These circumstances create major challenges for defined-benefit (DB) pension plans, causing many to question whether hedging liabilities still makes any sense. Spoiler alert: We think it does, but effective liability hedging in 2021 and beyond may require greater creativity and more expansive thinking, customized for the goals and the funding status of each individual plan.
We see five prominent headwinds for pension plans in 2021:
The views expressed in this material are the views of Thomas J Kennelly and Dane Smith through the period ended February 18, 2021 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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EXP: 02/28/2022