Can robo-advice boost engagement with retirement planning?

Technology as a communication tool

clock • 7 min read

Switching from the paternalistic defined benefit (DB) system to the more consumer-focused defined contribution (DC) has forced the pension industry to take a more active approach to member engagement. Can robo-advice help?

Initial attempts at member engagement were far from successful, according to Willis Towers Watson senior DC consultant Ann Flynn, who says: "The paternalism of DB contaminated DC pensions, making it very hard to get people to take responsibility and recognise their aspirations." The pensions industry also stumbled at the start, spending too much time focusing on trying to teach the mechanics of the financial markets rather than focus on simple targets members can understand. While improvements have been made, many members remain uninterested in their pension. The introduction of auto-...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Technology

AJ Bell launches mobile-first adviser platform to tackle advice gap

AJ Bell launches mobile-first adviser platform to tackle advice gap

AJ Bell Touch aims to offer secure advice delivery for lower-value clients

Sahar Nazir
clock 23 June 2025 • 2 min read
Most advisers ready to 'break up' with their CRM systems

Most advisers ready to 'break up' with their CRM systems

Adviser/ CRM system relationships ‘under serious strain’, Twenty7tec finds

Isabel Baxter
clock 17 June 2025 • 3 min read
'In the AI era, neurodivergence is more valuable than ever'

'In the AI era, neurodivergence is more valuable than ever'

'The design and training of AI systems inherently favour consistency and predictability'

Phillip Wickenden
clock 16 June 2025 • 5 min read