Comment & Insight

Simply the best . . . estimate

As Solvency II regulations settle and 2016 year end approaches, insurers have the chance to draw breath and take pride in the past few years work. But do the assumptions reflect reality and are the processes in place sufficiently robust and objective?

The Greek Gods of employee wellbeing

We are standing at the forefront of innovation in the wellbeing arena, discarding the old fashioned blanket approach to benefit provision in favour of unique solutions, inspired by ancient philosophies, but tailored for the modern workplace.

Analytics Maturity: Dastardly data and despicable solicitors

UK primary solicitors insurance is a battleground. The large claims continue to stress the scant premium pool. Unrated carriers continually enter the battlefield, taking market share and perpetuating the depressed rates.

News on Pensions September 2016

In this issue of News on Pensions we examine the Treasury's consultation on Pensions Advice Allowance for DC, VAT on pension scheme costs, the latest news from TPR as well as a round-up of the latest news from across the industry.

Current Issues in Pensions Financial Reporting - July 2016

This note is aimed at institutions in the Higher Education (HE) sector that either sponsor their own defined benefit (DB) pension scheme (referred to as a Self-Administered Trust or SAT), or participate in a nationwide arrangement.

Solvency II disclosures

It may feel like there’s plenty of time before the Solvency and SFCR and RSR submission deadlines, but the scattered nature of the regulation and the high volume of information required make the task of preparing the reports far from trivial.

Barnett Waddingham named Business Consultancy of the Year for the second consecutive time

We were proud to take this award home for the second consecutive year, after being recognised by an esteemed panel of industry experts for our innovative solutions in technology and forward-thinking approach to complex business challenges.

Barnett Waddingham triumph in double award win success

Barnett Waddingham were thrilled to be named Best Wellbeing Provider and Reward Provider of the Year at the VIB Awards 2016 in a splendid ceremony at the Hilton Bankside last night.

Mark Futcher named Best Individual Pensions Consultant of the Year

We are proud to announce that Barnett Waddingham’s Head of DC, Mark Futcher has been named Best Individual Pensions Consultant at this year’s prestigious Engaged Investor Trustee Awards.

Why BWell? Survey 2016

We surveyed over 300 employees throughout May and June 2016, across a wide range of locations, age groups and affluence levels. Comparing trends and results from last years survey, we reveal insights into what wellbeing in the workplace looks like today.

With Profits Survey

This is the third investigation Barnett Waddingham has conducted into the investment strategies of UK with-profits funds.

Buy-outs and Buy-ins Report 2016

Our 2016 Bulk Annuity Annual Report discusses the latest developments in the buy-in and buy-out market. We highlight important issues for trustees and sponsoring employees as well as summarising the views of insurers on key aspects of the market.

Member communication and engagement - benefit accrual switch

ECITB appointed Barnett Waddingham in 2015 to provide member communication consultancy to their scheme members, relating to the proposed switch of future benefit accrual from the DB to DC section of their scheme.

The impact of PIP transitional rules on existing regular contributions

This case study examines the effect on existing regular contributions where the Pension Input Period (PIP) is already aligned with the tax year, using ‘Fred’ and his Self-Invested Personal Pension Plan (SIPP) as an example.

Stress testing and scenario analysis framework

Implementing a stress testing and scenario analysis framework in order to identify and analyse current and potential issues that were of market-wide concern.

Malcolm McLean's expert view: welcoming clarification on the difference between guidance and advice

Malcolm McLean comments on The Treasury's consultation paper which focuses on amending the definition of advice so that consumers only receive regulated advice when they are offered a personal recommendation for a specific product.

The implications of Brexit for European companies with UK final salary pension schemes

Barnett Waddingham highlights the roller-coaster ride the EU Referendum has meant for top European companies with UK final salary schemes as well as the longer-term uncertainty for pensioners.

Largest with-profit funds generating greater investment returns than their smaller rivals

Barnett Waddingham, the UK’s leading independent provider of actuarial, administration and consultancy services, announces results from its annual research into the investment strategy of UK with-profit funds.