Smart Pension has announced a £330m investment in two Octopus Energy generation funds.

The move is part of a 15 per cent allocation commitment to private markets within Smart Pension's default fund. It aims to accelerate the UK's net-zero transition, with 5 per cent of the fund going into the Sky (Octopus renewables infrastructure) and OETF (Octopus energy transition fund) vehicles. Projects include the UK's first investor-backed ground source heat pump network in South Wales, delivering affordable low-carbon heating to 114 homes. As part of the investment, Smart Pension's 1.5 million members will also have access to a range of materials, including case studies and carbon reporting, to help them better understand how their pension savings are making a difference both financially and environmentally. Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, welcomed the investment, calling it a "clear example" of unlocking pensions for growth and good jobs. "I'm so excited about Smart Pension's investment in the UK's first commercially funded ground source heat pump network in South Wales, delivering returns, growth and jobs," she said.

LCP and the National Housing Federation (NHF) have launched a pension helpline for smaller housing associations.

Available to NHF members with fewer than 2,000 homes, the service offers support on ad-hoc pensions queries, including scheme structures, regulatory updates, compliance requirements, sector-specific arrangements, and multi-employer schemes such as the social housing pension scheme (SHPS) and LGPS. The helpline comes as schemes navigate continued complexity following the Pensions Schemes Act and evolving regulatory environment. LCP social housing advisory team senior consultant, Martin Robinson, said: “Many smaller associations have limited time and resources to commit to pensions. This helpline offers an efficient way to help and ensure these NHF members do not miss out. We are really excited by the opportunity to support more housing associations and continue to drive better outcomes across the sector. We recognise smaller housing associations need support, and our unique partnership with the NHF allows us to provide this in an efficient way."

Fidelity International's default workplace pension strategy, FutureWise, has surpassed £20bn in assets under management (AUM).

Since adopting a target date fund (TDF) structure in 2022, FutureWise has more than tripled in size, delivering annualised gross returns of 12.5 per cent for younger members and 8.1 per cent for those approaching retirement. In 2025, the strategy integrated Fidelity's first long-term asset fund (LTAF), offering diversified access to private markets. It currently supports the needs of more than 250,000 defined contribution (DC) scheme members. FutureWise investment director at Fidelity International, James Monk, commented: "Reaching £20bn in AUM marks a significant milestone for FutureWise and is a clear reflection of the confidence clients and their members have placed in our strategy to support long-term financial wellbeing. Fidelity International remains absolutely committed to the UK workplace market and to FutureWise as it goes from strength to strength. Looking ahead, FutureWise is forecast to grow beyond £40bn in AUM by 2030, far surpassing the £25bn threshold set out in the Pension Schemes Bill.

An unnamed Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) has purchased Francis House for £55.5m.

The sale of the 43,000 sq ft office building in London, which includes a 9,000 sq ft basement, is set to be completed in early Q4 2025. The sale price aligns with its December 2024 book value and reflects a 4.9 per cent net initial yield. After adjusting for incentives, the yield stands at 4.1 per cent, with the disposal expected to be slightly accretive to EPRA earnings on a pro forma basis. Colliers Global Investors advised the LGPS. Derwent London owns the property, and its CEO, Paul Williams, said the deal highlighted "strengthening investor demand" in the London office market.

Phoenix Group has invested €120m to support Encevo's critical infrastructure programme.

The group announced its participation as a lead lender in the recent €200m senior unsecured notes issuance by Encevo, supporting its plans to invest in sustainable infrastructure across the Greater Region. The deal spans Encevo's integrated energy operations, including Enovos (supply), Creos (networks), and Teseos (services). Phoenix Group head of private credit, Cedric Rozier, said: "Our €120m commitment to this transaction reflects our confidence in Encevo's resilient business model, experienced management team, and strategic vision. Encevo's position as a defensive asset with a high proportion of earnings derived from regulated networks aligns perfectly with our strategy of supporting well-managed companies with strong market positions and stable cash flows."

---