Please note: this programme is subject to change

Programme

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Registration
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Welcome and Opening Remarks
Speaker
Deputy Editor
Professional Pensions
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Embracing change: The regulatory approach to a shifting DB environment
The DB landscape is rapidly evolving as funding levels improve, and new solutions emerge in the market. As a result, there are more options for trustees to consider when assessing the long-term goals of their scheme. Join this session as the regulator outlines their expectations and evolving regulatory approach for this changing landscape.
Speaker
Director of Trusteeship, Administration & DB Supervision
TPR
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Surplus developments and your endgame
With many DB schemes now well-funded and looking to their endgames and the government’s response to its Options for DB Schemes consultation demonstrating clear intent to unlock DB surpluses, questions around how best to use surplus to unlock value for both schemes and members are more relevant now than ever.
This session will address:
  • How can surplus be best used to benefit the members and sponsors
  • How to best extract surplus
  • How to use and invest surplus productively whilst balancing fiduciary duty
  • Understanding whether surplus release is a good idea for your scheme
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Networking Break
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DB Funding Code in practice

The biggest shift in DB pension scheme funding in two decades is here. With the new DB Funding Code now live, and the first real valuations for the post-22 September 2024 valuations under the framework now taking place, this session explores what the changes mean in practice for scheme professionals.

This session will address:

  • What the code means for funding, risk, and investment strategies
  • Insights from schemes already undertaking valuations, practical examples
  • TPR’s expectations and how should trustees respond
  • Key issues to consider ahead of your next valuation
  • What are the key requirements of the new code
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Bulk annuity market insights

This session will delve into the current state of the bulk annuity market providing insights into what has changed due to new entrants and other events such as recent market volatility. Join this session to understand how to best navigate this evolving market.

This session will address:

  • What are the key trends shaping the future of the endgame market and how has market volatility impacted this
  • The current state of the bulk annuity market and how to best position yourself to engage with the market
  • Real world insights into what works when transitioning to endgame
  • A look at the new insurers entering the market
  • Are all schemes being sufficiently served?

Speaker
Partner
Aon
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The Pension Schemes Bill

The Pension Schemes Bill announced monumental policy change and a roadmap of this future change was also laid before parliament. With all this future policy change having been announced, attend this session to understand all the changes and what they mean for the future of DB schemes.

This session will address:

  • An outline and timeline of the future policy changes
  • Insights into what this reform will mean for your scheme and the opportunities they present
  • How will the changes transform the DB pensions sector 
  • How to prepare
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Lunch
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Future proofing your DB run on strategy
With increasing focus on endgame strategies, many DB schemes are exploring run-on solutions as a compelling alternative to full buyout. But what does this look like in practice? This session will share insights on the implementation of run-on solutions.
This session will address:
  • How to assess if run-on can really work for your scheme
  • Key considerations, and outcomes of different run-on approaches—providing a real-world perspective on how schemes can secure long-term member outcomes while retaining strategic control.
  • Practical lessons and actionable insights for trustees and sponsors navigating the evolving endgame landscape.
  • How to best invest when aiming for longer-term run-on
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The future of DB pensions

Major pension reforms, including changes to surplus rules, along with wide-ranging regulatory changes and a challenging geopolitical and economic backdrop are reshaping the DB landscape. This expert panel will explore the key forces that will define DB schemes over the next decade, and as a result what the future DB pensions landscape could look like.

This session will address:

  • What are the main challenges and opportunities facing DB schemes
  • How is the evolving regulatory environment impacting the DB landscape
  • How are DB investment strategies changing in response?
Speakers
Chair of Trustees
Stagecoach Group Pensions
Partner
Aon
Head of Trusteeship
Vidett
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Closing Remarks
Speaker
Deputy Editor
Professional Pensions