Insights

State Street Quarterly DB Insights: The Five Biggest Challenges Defined-Benefit Plans Face in 2021 —and How to Address Them

Senior Investment Strategist

24 February 2021

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:

Challenge: Low yields and tight investment grade credit spreads
Challenge: High-flying equity valuations and elevated volatility
Challenge: Inflation exposure
Challenge: Funding uncertainty and increased plan expense
Challenge: Achieving benefits of scale

Disclosures

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.

The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.

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