Interest in defined benefit (DB) superfund options is growing, according to a poll from the Society of Pension Professionals (SPP), as nearly two-thirds (65 per cent) of respondents said they would be more likely to consider a superfund than they were 18 months ago. 

The poll, gathered during an event on superfunds, revealed that less than a fifth (16 per cent) said that they would not consider a superfund at all, while 19 per cent were unsure. 

In addition to this, the survey found that the vast majority (90 per cent) of pension professionals are expecting more competition and innovation in the superfund market.
 
This is perhaps unsurprising given recent market changes, with a clearer regulatory framework taking shape thanks to the Pension Schemes Bill, Clara Pensions undertaking various superfund transactions and TPT confirming its intention to enter the market.

Indeed, SPP member and Open Trustees managing director, Jonathan Hazlett, pointed out that "DB Superfunds have moved from concept to reality, so it’s no surprise to see that so many pension professionals are saying that they are more likely to consider superfunds as an option". 

"Likewise, there is widespread recognition that greater innovation and competition is inevitable," he stated.

"Against such a backdrop, the future for the superfund sector looks bright.”

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