Retirement

Shaping the future for defined benefit plans 

Findings from Mercer’s defined benefit plan sponsors survey

Mercer’s survey of plan sponsors reveals many are integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into their defined benefit (DB) plans. 

Findings from Mercer’s Shaping the Future survey of DB plan sponsors

All DB plans, regardless of size, are experiencing the same compelling reasons to integrate ESG factors.
Define benefits plan sponspors esg factors infographic

The top reason for considering ESG is to align with corporate missions or beliefs

What are your reasons for considering ESG factors in investment decisions?*

DB plan sponsors expect to do more with ESG data in the near future

How do you use ESG data?*
* The data presented is not intended to, and should not be interpreted as, representing a total or sum that equates to 100%. The percentages refer to respondents who may have selected multiple responses or none of the responses.
Wherever you are on your ESG journey, we can help.
Mercer’s survey of defined benefit (DB) plan sponsors reveals their perspectives on investing in private markets.

Private markets investment appeals to plans of all sizes

More could be done to demystify private markets investments. One in five plan sponsors doesn’t invest in private markets because “it’s too complex.”

What’s next?

39% expect to invest more in private assets in the next three years, and they expect to increase investments in private debt more than any other asset class.

Accomplishing your investment goals starts with defining them now.
Mercer’s survey of defined benefit (DB) plan sponsors reveals many are protecting their plans now to secure better long-term outcomes.

Findings from Mercer’s Shaping the Future 2023 survey of DB plan sponsors

DB plan sponsors are eyeing long-term success.
DB plan sponsors are eyeing long-term success

Pension management priorities

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to de-risking

Main ways that DB plan sponsors expect to de-risk their DB plans
Main ways that DB plan sponsors expect to de-risk their DB plans
Nine out of 10 sponsors have an action plan for using surplus
It’s never been more important to take a strategic approach and establish your DB pension plan goals now and in the future.

Mercer survey conducted from June 1 to June 30, 2023. 

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It’s never been more important to take a strategic approach and establish your DB pension plan goals now and in the future.
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