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5 Questions Every Scheme Should Ask in 2026

Senior LDI Portfolio Manager

Introduction

After two exceptional years for UK Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes, many enter 2026 from a position of relative strength, but also facing heightened uncertainty. Bank Rate cuts have begun yet are uneven; inflation is easing but remains sticky in places; gilt issuance is elevated amid ongoing fiscal pressure; and geopolitical risks continue to inject volatility into rates, credit and equities. In this environment, the most resilient schemes are those that ask the right questions early and act with speed, precision and sound governance.

Below, we set out five questions to help trustees and sponsors stress test strategy, sharpen execution and preserve hard‑won funding gains through 2026 and beyond.

Putting It All Together: A 2026 Checklist

  • Hedging: Confirm interest‑rate and inflation hedge ratios in aggregation but also across the curve; adopt a documented hedging policy with pre‑agreed levels to amend allocations.
  • Liquidity & Collateral: Stress test collateral waterfalls and settlement logistics under gilt, repo and spread shocks; diversify repo counterparties; ring‑fence suitable cash‑like assets.
  • Endgame & Surplus: Decide how surplus supports buy‑in, buyout or run‑on. Consider superfunds as a potential path to buyout.
  • Governance & Execution: Update glidepath steps, triggers and delegated authorities to enable timely action; align trustee cadence with standing instructions where appropriate.
  • Sustainability: Review sustainable investing integration in LDI; consider green gilt and sustainability‑aware Sterling credit allocations; consider enhanced reporting to include sustainable investing metrics within the LDI portfolio.
  • Manager & Value: Benchmark manager service standards, technology and fees; identify and address hidden costs of inertia.

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