Defined Benefit Allocation Shift Towards Fixed Income
The Fund’s medium-term target asset allocation strategy, agreed upon in 2023, indicates a planned decrease in equity exposure over the next 11 years. This will be offset by an increase in Corporate Bonds, Gilts, and Index-Linked Gilts. The rationale for this adjustment is to decrease funding level volatility and risk by enhancing asset matching and hedging of liability interest rate and inflation risks. The Fund is currently ahead of its original de-risking plan and intends to realign with it, unless opportunities arise to accelerate the de-risking process (page 1).
Consideration of Illiquid Investments for Defined Contribution Section
The Trustee does not currently hold illiquid investments, such as private equity, infrastructure, and real estate, for its Defined Contribution (DC) members in the default arrangements. While acknowledging potential benefits, the Trustee is currently hesitant due to higher associated fees and the risk of illiquidity. However, the Trustee is open to considering the use of illiquid investments in the future, which would be part of any subsequent review of investment strategy or manager selection (page 7).
Source