MetLife's Survey Reveals a Surge in Pension Liabilities De-Risking

Growing Trend in Pension Liability De-Risking

MetLife, a leader in insurance and financial services, recently conducted its 2024 Pension Risk Transfer Poll, revealing an interesting trend among plan sponsors. According to the findings, an overwhelming 93% of companies focused on de-risking their pension plans aim to completely divest their defined benefit (DB) pension liabilities.

Survey Findings and Market Growth

In the survey, 52% of the respondents indicated they plan to divest their pension liabilities within the next two to five years, with an average target of 3.8 years. This marks a significant rise from 89% in the previous year, underscoring a palpable shift in the pension risk transfer (PRT) landscape. Notably, LIMRA recently reported a robust 14% increase in PRT deals during the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year.

Understanding the Driving Forces

Elizabeth Walsh, Vice President of U.S. Pensions at MetLife, noted the dynamic growth in the pension risk transfer market and its strong outlook for the future. The impetus behind this trend primarily stems from the current macroeconomic conditions. The survey indicated that 47% of plan sponsors cite rising interest rates as a primary driving force, followed closely by rising inflation at 45% and increased market volatility at 44%.

Preparing for Action

The survey further revealed that 93% of sponsors are actively assessing their pension plan's value relative to the costs associated with the benefits provided. Consequently, many are undertaking essential measures aimed at reducing the risks associated with their DB plans. Key actions over the past two years have included improving data quality (56%), increasing plan contributions (52%), and enhancing involvement from executives (29%).

Engaging in Targeted Strategies

Moreover, the Poll indicated that 85% of plan sponsors have either engaged in discussions with their consultants about pension risk transfers or are currently doing so. Regarding the types of activities deemed most beneficial for de-risking, 66% intend to pursue an annuity buyout strategy, which is a notable increase from 46% recorded in MetLife's inaugural survey in 2015. Furthermore, 68% of respondents plan to secure a group annuity to relieve some, if not all, of the pension liabilities associated with retirees.

Timeliness in Transactions

Interestingly, 90% of plan sponsors are keeping a close watch on market pricing movements for annuity buyouts, with 38% observing pricing developments very closely. The urgency to act is palpable, as 82% expressed concerns about potentially missing advantageous rates in the trading window. To support these sponsors, MetLife has introduced its Pension Risk Transfer Estimator Tool, which enables a detailed cost estimation for transferring pension liabilities to an insurance provider.

The Impact on Stakeholders

This growing trend towards pension de-risking has wide-reaching implications for multiple stakeholders involved. Improved data quality and proactive measures taken by plan sponsors can lead to smoother transitions when transferring pension administration to insurers, resulting in better outcomes for participants.

About MetLife's Research

MetLife’s comprehensive survey, conducted by MMR Research Associates, Inc. within late July 2024, gathered insights from 250 DB plan sponsors, each managing assets exceeding $100 million. With an average DB plan asset of $1.3 billion and a funded status of 94%, the survey captures the sentiments of a financially significant segment of the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key findings of MetLife's 2024 Pension Risk Transfer Poll?

The Poll finds that 93% of plan sponsors plan to completely divest their defined benefit pension liabilities, marking an increase from the previous survey.

How has the macroeconomic environment influenced pension de-risking?

Rising interest rates, inflation, and market volatility are identified as key factors driving plan sponsors to explore pension de-risking strategies.

What steps are companies taking in preparation for pension liability transfers?

Companies are focusing on enhancing data quality, increasing contributions, and engaging executives in pension management to prepare for upcoming transfers.

What percentage of sponsors are currently discussing pension risk transfers?

According to the results, 85% of plan sponsors have been or are currently discussing pension risk transfers with their advisors.

What tools has MetLife introduced to assist plan sponsors?

MetLife launched the Pension Risk Transfer Estimator Tool to help plan sponsors estimate the costs associated with transferring pension liabilities.

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