Pensions system places too much risk on individuals - IFS

Director Paul Johnson's warnings

clock • 2 min read

Workplace pensions look more like individual savings pots as too much risk is loaded onto members, Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) director Paul Johnson is set to warn.

Johnson, who is due to speak at a lecture tonight marking the Government Actuary's Department's centenary, will argue while current pensioners are on average better off than ever and the introduction of auto-enrolment (AE) is drastically boosting workplace pension savings, not everything is working well in the pensions industry. In his speech, Johnson will praise AE, mentioning the high volumes of members in employer-sponsored pension schemes, with seven in 10 now in these schemes. However, he will criticise low contribution rates and warn that defined contribution schemes "place all ris...

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 Pensions

FCA data reveals 'notable advice gap' in drawdown

FCA data reveals 'notable advice gap' in drawdown

Almost half of pots entering drawdown now do so without regulated advice

Sophia Panayi
clock 24 September 2026 • 2 min read
Action 'needed now' on salary sacrifice to minimise disruption

Action 'needed now' on salary sacrifice to minimise disruption

LCP says early preparation will help employers navigate the transition

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 24 September 2026 • 2 min read
Self-employed face retirement saving 'obstacle course'

Self-employed face retirement saving 'obstacle course'

‘Structural gap’ in participation between employees and self-employed

Martin Richmond
clock 22 September 2026 • 4 min read