Critical thinking, critical issues

What does investment governance look like when success is defined by more than just returns? In this episode, Andy Farrington, Mercer's Multinational Investments Leader, is joined by Lee House of ABB's Group Pension Management Team and Deborah Frost, Chair Elect of Mercer UK Master Trust, to discuss how large asset owners may navigate complex decisions across global pension plans.  Together, they explore how to seek to balance risk, stakeholder alignment, long-term sustainability, and value for money across both defined benefit (“DB”) and defined contribution (“DC”) plans. From global DB derisking strategies to member engagement innovations in DC, the discussion surfaces the practical realities of governance across borders.This podcast contains statements on historical performance which may not be repeated in the future. Please note that returns on investments are not guaranteed.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here  

In this episode, Jo Holden is joined by Alan Synott and Robert Ronneberger to explore the evolving real assets landscape.They discuss where we are in the real assets cycle, the case for global diversification, opportunities and challenges in Southeast Asia, and practical strategies for asset owners navigating today's dynamic market environment. This podcast contains statements on historical performance which may not be repeated in the future. Please note that returns on investments are not guaranteed.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Anubhuti Gupta and Adeline Tan tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing endowments and foundations: delivering sustainable returns amid rising market concentration, volatility, and lower future expectations. They discuss how diversification beyond traditional equities, smarter liquidity management, and strong governance frameworks are essential to building resilient, future-ready portfolios. Whether you are a CIO, investment committee member, or advisor to E&Fs, this conversation offers actionable ideas for navigating today's volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous investment landscape. This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Andreas Vermeiren, Principal in Mercer's Insurance Solutions team, is joined by William Gibbons, Principal in the Insurance Solutions team, and Eryn Bacewich, Head of US Insurance Solutions, to discuss their thoughts on risk management in insurance portfolios during a period of increased market volatility and the opportunities this presents to agile investors.Drawing on their experience and conversations with clients, including some of the world's largest insurers, William and Eryn break down the current volatility in equity and bond markets, the importance of stress testing portfolios to ensure they remain resilient, and strategies available to insurers to reduce their exposure. They also discuss the opportunities in the market for insurers who can dynamically reallocate their assets to ensure their portfolios are optimally positioned.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode, Alan Synnott, Mercer's Global Head of Real Assets, is joined by Anne Koeman-Sharapova and Simon James to explore how institutional investors are repositioning their real estate allocations in light of market resets and evolving sector dynamics.They discuss why real estate remains a core private markets asset, where valuation corrections have opened potential opportunities, trends they are seeing across different geographies and sectors, and how global diversification of real estate investing may offer potential benefits for today's investors.This podcast contains statements on historical performance which may not be repeated in the future. Please note that returns on investments are not guaranteed.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode, Robert Ronneberger, Head of Business Development for Asia, is joined by Dave McMillan, Chief Investment Officer, Hedge Funds, to explore how investors can future-proof their portfolios — specifically within hedge funds. Robert and Dave examine the most common mistakes seen in hedge fund investing, the impact of recent market volatility and other significant changes, such as the normalization of interest rates, and the potential  opportunities in  today's markets.This podcast contains statements on historical performance which may not be repeated in the future. Please note that returns on investments are not guaranteed.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

As trade tensions, uncertainty over the direction of interest rates, and pension reforms reshape the investment landscape, liability-driven investing (LDI) may provide a source of stability. In this episode, Jeffrey Dissmann, who leads Mercer's Investments business in Germany, is joined by Sheena Frost, Lead of the Europe ex-UK Portfolio Management Solutions Team at Mercer and Rik Klerkx, Chief Investment Officer LDI and Private Markets at Cardano Netherlands, to discuss how investors across Europe are adapting their LDI strategies.The discussion spans regulatory variations, the resurgence of bonds, inflation hedging challenges, and the operational plumbing that may facilitate resilient portfolios. Together, they examine the trade-offs between swaps and sovereign bonds, the growing role of private assets, and lessons learned from the UK's LDI crisis. This podcast contains statements on historical performance which may not be repeated in the future. Please note that returns on investments are not guaranteed.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode, Niall O'Sullivan, Global Solutions Chief Investment Officer, is joined by Olaolu Aganga, US Chief Investment Officer, Rupert Watson, Global Head of Economics & DAA, and Mike Forestner, Global Chief Investment Officer, Private Markets, to examine the causes of recent market volatility and the implications across public and private markets.The conversation leverages Mercer's investment relationships with both asset owners and asset managers to share insights on how industry leaders are responding, as well as our own thinking on how to approach the rest of 2025. In particular, we argue this is a crucial moment for long-term investors to trust the resilience of their portfolios, which have been designed to withstand short-term market fluctuations.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Amit Popat, Global Head of Financial Institutions at Mercer, is joined by Han Dieperink, Chief Investment Officer of Auréus, and Richard De Groot, Head of Global Investment Center at ABN AMRO Bank. Recorded live at Mercer's Global Investment Forum, together they explore how the wealth management industry is adapting to shifting client expectations, regulatory pressures, and advancements in technology.Key takeaways include:Evolving client expectations: While the fundamentals of wealth management remain unchanged, clients now demand greater personalisation, transparency, and access to alternative investments.The role of AI and technology: AI-driven tools are helping to streamline operations, improve client communication, and enhance investment decision-making. However, firms must balance automation with the human relationships that remain central to private banking.Navigating regulatory challenges: Increasing compliance requirements place significant demands on IT budgets and resources, forcing firms to prioritise innovation while meeting regulatory obligations.The rise of private markets: Alternative investments, particularly private equity, are becoming more accessible to wealth management clients. However, challenges remain in fund selection, operational due diligence, and scaling access to a broader client base.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Manish Solanki, Head of Mercer Sentinel Group Europe, is joined by Tony Martinez, Head of Mercer Sentinel Americas, and Ashleigh McDowell, Principal at Mercer Sentinel Group, to explore why Operational Due Diligence is becoming an essential component of investment decision-making.With increasing market volatility, regulatory pressures, and rapid technological advancements - including the rise of AI and cybersecurity threats - asset managers are facing new and complex operational risks. The conversation delves into how investors can mitigate these challenges, ensure robust governance, and protect their portfolios from operational failures.Key takeaways include:The growing impact of AI and cybersecurity on operational risk: Asset managers are increasingly relying on AI-driven tools to enhance efficiency, but this comes with significant risks, including data manipulation, AI-generated fraud, and cybersecurity threats. The rise of sophisticated phishing attacks and deepfake technology has heightened the risk of financial losses, making it critical for asset managers to implement AI risk management frameworks, conduct rigorous testing, and enhance cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive information.Why regulatory changes are reshaping operational due diligence: The financial industry is undergoing significant regulatory shifts, with new frameworks such as the Digital Operational Resilience Act in Europe imposing stricter compliance requirements. These regulations demand greater oversight, increased reporting, and enhanced operational risk management practices. Asset managers must adapt quickly to avoid penalties, maintain investor confidence, and ensure operational resilience in an increasingly regulated landscape.How operational due diligence is evolving for private markets and emerging managers: As institutional investors allocate more capital to private markets, they face unique operational challenges, particularly with smaller, boutique asset managers. ODD plays a critical role in evaluating the governance, internal controls, and risk management processes of these firms. Investors are increasingly using ODD findings not only to vet managers but also to negotiate investment terms and ensure alignment with best practices in operational risk management.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode, William Gibbons, Senior Insurance Investment Consultant at Mercer, is joined by Tom Davies, Head of UK Placement, Marsh, and Olaolu Aganga, US Chief Investment Officer, Mercer, to explore how non-life insurers can potentially capture opportunities while maintaining resilience in an economic and market environment that's in a state of flux. The conversation covers how diversification could help insurers achieve long-term portfolio resilience, adapting to a new insurance market cycle, and how insurers can potentially enhance client offerings.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Marieke de Roo, Mercer's Leader in Europe for Single Family Offices and Endowments & Foundations, is joined by Texas Hemmaplardh and Cori Trautvetter, both Partners and Co-Leads of Mercer's US Endowment and Foundation Investment Practice, to explore how endowments and foundations can potentially achieve portfolio resilience in an economic and market environment that's in a state of flux. The conversation covers the challenge of diversification amidst a strong U.S. market, managing liquidity in the face of inflation and market shifts, governance may be a silent enabler of success, and the importance of aligning investments with organizational values.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.There are substantial risks associated with investments classified as alternative investments. Investors should have the ability, investing sophistication and experience to bear the risks associated with such investments.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode (date of recording: February 28, 2025), Lisa Kots, Head of US Wealth Management Portfolio Management at Mercer, is joined by Rupert Watson, Global Head of Economics and Dynamic Asset Allocation, and Julius Bendikas, European Head of Economics and Dynamic Asset Allocation. Together, they explore the global economic outlook for Q1 2025, analyzing key market trends, potential risks, and investment opportunities in the months ahead.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Jo Holden, Global Head of Investment Research and Advisory at Mercer, is joined by Leslie Maasdorp, CEO at British International Investment (BII) and Matt Robinson, Head of Private Capital Mobilisation at BII, to explore the world of development finance institutions (DFIs), capital mobilisation, and how DFIs can open up new investment opportunities for institutional investors in emerging markets and developing markets (EMDEs).Investment flows into EMDEs remain far below the levels needed to support development and combat climate change. The Independent High-Level Expert Group (IHLEG) on Climate Finance estimates that these countries, excluding China, will require $1 trillion annually by 2030, rising to $1.3 trillion by 2035. While these regions offer diversification benefits and strong impact potential, global investors often perceive them as too high risk, with current flows only just surpassing $100 billion annually. Bridging this gap will require a strategic blend of public and private investment.Key takeaways include:What is meant by mobilisation and why it matters: Mobilisation refers to attracting and effectively deploying private capital alongside DFIs to increase investment in markets that typically do not meet institutional investors' risk/return profiles. Mobilisation is essential in scaling climate action within EMDEs, where climate change effects are most severe. This need for partnership was underscored by the UK Prime Minister's announcement of a £100 million Mobilisation Facility, managed by BII, to facilitate private investment in EMDEs. With EDME's expected to play a crucial role in global economic growth, investing in these markets creates investment opportunities for growth, diversification and impact.How this facility addresses some of the challenges investors face when considering investment in these markets: As BII's first concessional mandate that offers derisking opportunity for third-party investors, the facility plays a critical role in bridging the 'relative value gap' between institutional investors' risk appetite and the risk profile of BII's portfolio. By offering significant risk mitigation, it encourages greater investor participation-essential for achieving climate impact at scale. A key feature of the facility is its high-risk tolerance- with BII's capital able to absorb potential capital erosion, reducing downside risks for institutional investors.The type of risks that this facility will help mitigate and the investments this will open up to institutional investors: BII will accept below-market returns to boost private investor returns or provide credit enhancements through guarantees or insurance, helping to de-risk investments without distorting the underlying market. This will enable institutional investors to test, seed, and scale climate-focused technologies, businesses, and investment strategies with transformational impact across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical thinking, Michel Meert, European Consulting Leader for Endowments, Foundations and Family Offices, is joined by Marieke de Roo, European Sales Leader for Endowments, Foundations & Single-Family Offices, and Teena Jilka, Senior Investment Adviser to explore what's top of mind for single-family offices over the next year and beyond. As inflation moves back toward target rates, the prospect of a soft landing seems increasingly likely. This shift in outlook is prompting investors - particularly single-family offices, which focus on long-term positioning - to consider what comes next.Key takeaways include:Next-generation infrastructure: The role of infrastructure has evolved beyond the traditional use in a portfolio as the range of assets that it captures is much broader. Areas such as EV charging networks and data centres have the potential to create a compelling opportunity for family offices with a relatively longer-term investment horizon.Hedge funds as a potential driver of absolute return and diversification: As investors grapple with overconcentration in global equity markets, particularly the US, as well as heightened volatility, diversification is top of mind for family offices. Hedge funds may offer flexibility to capitalize on market volatility and market dislocation, which could make them potential alternatives to fixed income, given the higher for longer expected rate environment.How family offices can structure their governance and investment processes: In this period of high volatility, having an investment committee with clear policies, guidelines, and risk tolerance levels is essential to help ensure disciplined decision making, focused on long-term objectives.CitationsBlackrock. "Adding structure to your portfolio with infrastructure," 2023.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Sinead Leahy, Co-Head of Cardano Advisory is joined by Nick Gibson, Managing Director, Cardano Advisory, and Dan Jackson, M&A Senior Principal at Mercer, to explore the key findings from our recent report, ‘Unlocking value and opportunities from UK pension funds – a private equity perspective'. There has been a significant shift in the Defined Benefit (DB) landscape in recent years, with many schemes moving from a deficit position to surplus. Surveying over 100 private equity (PE) firms, we uncovered the opportunity for private equity to unlock value from UK pension funds. Key takeaways include: • The M&A opportunity from better funded DB schemes: pension schemes moving from a deficit to surplus means that schemes are no longer a blocker to M&A activity but rather a potential value driver, making a target business more attractive. Moreover, better funded schemes may mean less regulatory involvement in a deal, and less risk of deal value leakage. • Investors are seeking to access surpluses: Companies can often access pension surpluses when a scheme is wound up via a transfer to an insurance company, however, the government recently announced upcoming reforms that are designed to facilitate the release of surpluses on an ongoing basis. Many companies are delaying insurer ‘buyouts' to capture the potential upside, while some are already using surpluses to help fund their Defined Contribution (DC) schemes. • What can be done to channel more pension money into PE: While mature, closed DB schemes have reduced investments into illiquid assets such as Private Equity, there are potential opportunities for greater allocations into private capital across open DB schemes, Local Government Pension Schemes, and DC schemes. The upcoming UK Pension Schemes Bill may facilitate consolidation of these pension schemes, which is designed to incentivise them to invest in a broader set of assets, such as private capital. At the same time, greater trustee education and engagement between pension funds and the PE sector will be crucial to unlocking further investment. Citations:1. M&A extends its reach in 2025 | Barclays IB (04:14-04:19)2. DAS Design Center (04:14-04:19)3. M&A outlook shows firming US 2025 deal market activity | EY – US (04:14-04:19)4. 2025 M&A Outlook: 4 Trends Driving an Anticipated Rebound | Morgan Stanley (04:14-04:19)5. UK and European M&A: Predictions for 2025 | Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP (04:14-04:19)6. Chancellor's Mansion House Reforms to boost typical pension by over £1,000 a year - GOV.UK (17:16-17:30)7. PE Survey This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices here

In this episode of Critical thinking, Cara Williams, Senior Partner and Global ESG and Sustainability Leader at Mercer, is joined by Lovey Sidhu, Sustainable Investment Specialist in Mercer's Global Strategic Research Team, and Daniel Klier, CEO of South Pole, to explore the dynamic challenges and potential opportunities in the evolving carbon market.The discussion addresses the elements needed for carbon markets to function effectively, the importance of identifying high-quality projects, and the outlook on carbon markets as they mobilize private capital for climate action over the coming years.Citations:European Commission. What is the EU ETS? 2024.Reuters. Voluntary carbon markets set to become at least five times bigger by 2030, January 2023.Mc Kinsey. A blueprint for scaling voluntary carbon markets to meet the climate challenge, January 2021.Bloomberg. New energy finance on future demand scenarios, February 2024.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Navigating the challenges of modern pension provision requires employers to effectively communicate and implement changes in pension plans while keeping employees' best interests at heart.In this episode hosted by Mercer's Tej Patel, Fiona Brown shares her own views on the evolving landscape of employer retirement offerings, based on her decades-long experience in the sector, most recently at Rolls Royce. Key insights include redesigning plans to make them future-fit, ensuring employees feel financially secure as they plan for retirement, and the role of employers in fostering trust.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical thinking, Amit Popat, Global Head of Financial Institutions at Mercer, is joined by David Morrow, Head of Insurance, and Stephanie Thomes, a Senior Investment Strategist in Mercer's Insurance team, to explore Mercer's outlook for insurers in 2025. This year's paper reflects a transitional phase for the economy, defined by shifts in structural factors such as monetary policy, geopolitical uncertainty, and technological and regulatory innovation that requires a broader and longer perspective. These challenges will require thoughtful navigation, particularly for investors with a longer-term investment horizon, such as insurers. Key takeaways include: How investment risk can serve as a stabilising force for insurers: When underwriting results are under pressure from increased claims and reduced premium income, investment risk can be strategically advantageous because there's limited correlation between economic cycles and underwriting cycles. While underwriting performance is influenced by market conditions and competitive dynamics, investment returns can provide a stabilizing effect.  What strategies insurers can adopt to navigate a challenging environment, where recent fluctuations in interest rates have affected bond-oriented portfolios: There is considerable uncertainty about the direction of travel for markets in general, so insurers should consider modelling how their portfolios would perform under various scenarios, and to increase diversification, within the confines of acceptable risk and regulatory capital constraints.  How the growing number of semi-liquid and evergreen fund structures in private markets is changing the landscape for insurers: As private markets continue to evolve to meet the news of their investor base, semi-liquid and evergreen funds make it easier for small investment teams to participate in private markets, making it easier to maintain a target percentage allocation, relieve some of the administrative and operational burden of re-ups, and can relieve blind pool risk.  This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices - click here

In this episode of Critical Thinking, Jo Holden, Global Head of Investment Research at Mercer, is joined by Nick White, Global Strategic Research Director, and Matthew Scott, Strategic Research Principal, to explore Mercer's "Themes and Opportunities 2025" paper, specifically focusing on this year's theme, "Swing State." This concept reflects an economy in transition, driven by shifts in monetary policy, supply chain dynamics, and technological innovation. These forces require investors to adjust their strategies, embracing diversification and preparing for a broader range of scenarios. Key takeaways include: Private Markets De-Siloing: The report highlights changes in private market dynamics, with slower distributions and longer holding periods. There is a growing case for emerging markets (EM) over US investments, signaling the need for broader diversification.The security of everything: The interconnection between security and sustainability, rising dissatisfaction in institutions, with increasing political instability requiring careful risk management.Circular Economy: The importance of the circular economy, noting its potential to create new investment opportunities as businesses increasingly adopt sustainable practices to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency.Citations: Investment consultant of the year & Thought leadership paper on sustainable investing, Global: Mercer :: Environmental Finance Completing the Picture - How the circular economy tackles climate change.pdf Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices - click here

For the past 16 years, Mercer has been benchmarking retirement systems across the globe. The Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index 2024 uses more than 50 indicators to assess adequacy, sustainability and integrity across the world's pensions systems, highlighting their relative advantages and suggested areas for reform.In our latest episode, David Know, Senior Partner at Mercer, is joined by Holly Verdeyen, US Defined Contribution Leader, Mercer, and Paul Andrews, Global Benefits Consulting Director at Benefex, to discuss how pension providers, policymakers and employers can improve DC retirement outcomes for members.Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract. Read our full important notices - click here

Are you a French speaker looking to deep dive on co-investments and secondary market opportunities? In this first episode in French of the podcast "Critical Thinking," host Matthieu Mougeot is joined by investment specialists Maud-Kelly Crapeau and Pierre Luc Gariépy to discuss the growing interest in private market co-investments and secondary investments. They highlight their shorter investment horizons and potential for quicker capital deployment compared to traditional primary funds. Zooming in on the unique roles these strategies play in enhancing portfolio diversification and aligning interests between investors and fund managers, they also address the specific risks associated with co-investments and secondaries, including the need for in-depth knowledge and robust due diligence processes.The discussion touches on the increasing sophistication of investors in private markets and the regulatory impacts influencing investment decisions in some jurisdictions, particularly in France. The episode provides with insights on how investors can effectively allocate resources to these asset classes, stressing the importance of working with experienced asset managers to navigate the complexities of private market investments.This content is for institutional investors and for information purposes only. It does not contain investment, financial, legal, tax or any other advice and should not be relied upon for this purpose. The materials are not tailored to your particular personal and/or financial situation. If you require advice based on your specific circumstances, you should contact a professional adviser. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers as of the date of the recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.https://www.mercer.com/solutions/investments/important-notices/

As birth rates decline and our population ages, the ripple effects of this demographic transition are felt across all areas of our lives, from financial well-being, long-term health, caregiving, career trajectory and retirement planning. In our latest episode, Haleh Nazeri, Longevity Lead at the World Economic Forum, joins Mercer's Global DB Segment Leader, Graham Pearce, to unpack the Longevity Economy. Discover how employers could reshape their employee benefits and pension plans to support their workforce and have the potential to enhance financial resilience in response to this transformative trend. Additional links mentioned in the podcast: Global Talent Trends 2024: https://www.mercer.com/insights/people-strategy/future-of-work/global-talent-trends/ Longevity Economy Principles report: https://www.mercer.com/insights/investments/market-outlook-and-trends/unlocking-the-potential-of-the-longevity-economy/ Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Join us to explore some of the key challenges Asian allocators are facing in today's dynamic market. In this episode of Critical Thinking, live from the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Hong Kong, Mercer's Michael Lernihan, Adeline Tan, and Garvan McCarthy discuss how to build agile portfolios that can weather economic storms and capitalize on emerging trends. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here 

With diverse and often divergent economic backdrops among the region's economies, as well as complex and evolving risks, navigating the Asian alternative investments landscape can require expertise and local knowledge. In our latest Critical Thinking podcast, recorded live from the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Hong Kong, Robert Ronneberger, Raelan Lambert and David Scopelliti explore what are local factors redefining the case for different alternative asset classes across Asia. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Values-aligned investing is becoming increasingly prevalent among asset owners, but the way in which investors incorporate these considerations into portfolios has evolved over time. In the latest episode of Critical Thinking, Marina Batliwalla, Senior Investment Consultant, is joined by Rich Dell, Mercer's Global Head of Equities, and Tamara Larsen, Mercer's US Values-Aligned & Sustainable Investments Practice Leader, to discuss how approaches have changed.They explore how investors are addressing the challenges and capturing opportunities presented by values-aligned approaches, as well as how the thinking around sustainability has evolved from ESG ratings to encompass a much broader focus on stewardship, engagement, and impact.Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

In our latest episode, recorded at the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Melbourne, Australia, Rebecca Jacques and David Scopelliti are joined by Pengana Capital Group's CEO, Russel Pillemer to discuss both the challenges and opportunities in the fast-growing private debt space.They break down the historic drivers of growth in the asset class, and assess its development in Australia, a market in which opportunities to invest in private debt solutions have, historically, been more limited.  Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Remarkable growth in the captive insurance space has been driven by a range of factors over the recent past  – from an extended hard market to the expansion of risks requiring underwriting. In our latest episode of Critical Thinking, we dive into the world of captive insurers as William Gibbons is joined by Ellen Charnley, President of Marsh Captive Solutions, and Chris Tschida, Head of US Insurance at Mercer. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here Marsh is a business of Marsh McLennan.This document and any recommendations, analysis, or advice provided by Marsh (collectively, the “Marsh Analysis”) are not intended to be taken as advice regarding any individual situation and should not be relied upon as such. The information contained herein is based on sources we believe reliable, but we make no representation or warranty as to its accuracy. Marsh shall have no obligation to update the Marsh Analysis and shall have no liability to you or any other party arising out of this publication or any matter contained herein. Any statements concerning actuarial, tax, accounting, or legal matters are based solely on our experience as insurance brokers and risk consultants and are not to be relied upon as actuarial, tax, accounting, or legal advice, for which you should consult your own professional advisors. Any modeling, analytics, or projections are subject to inherent uncertainty, and the Marsh Analysis could be materially affected if any underlying assumptions, conditions, information, or factors are inaccurate or incomplete or should change. Marsh makes no representation or warranty concerning the application of policy wording or the financial condition or solvency of insurers or reinsurers. Marsh makes no assurances regarding the availability, cost, or terms of insurance coverage. Although Marsh may provide advice and recommendations, all decisions regarding the amount, type or terms of coverage are the ultimate responsibility of the insurance purchaser, who must decide on the specific coverage that is appropriate to its particular circumstances and financial position.1166 Avenue of the Americas, New York 10036Copyright © 2024, Marsh LLC. All rights reserved.

Join Amit Popat, Eryn Bacewich and Joshua Zwick as they unpack the findings from our Mercer and Oliver Wyman 2024 Global Insurance Investment Survey in the latest episode of Critical Thinking. They dive into the key investment themes, outlook and risks highlighted by the survey and assess the road ahead for insurance portfolios through the second half of the year.Read the full survey report here: https://www.mercer.com/insights/investments/market-outlook-and-trends/Global-Insurance-Investment-Survey/Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Market volatility, higher rates and an ageing population are creating a complex and rapidly evolving landscape for US pensions.Rich Nuzum, Scott Jarboe and Kelly Henson help us unpack how these complex and converging risks are playing out across US defined benefit and defined contribution plans in the latest episode Critical Thinking recorded at the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Nashville.Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Higher for longer interest rates are having profound effects on endowment and foundation portfolios across the US.The volatility this creates is making it more challenging to construct portfolios for the long-term and creating questions around liquidity management.Bill Burns and Meggan O'Shea join Texas Hemmaplardh in the latest episode of Critical Thinking recorded from the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Nashville, to discuss how these investors are navigating regime change.Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

What goes into selecting the best hedge fund managers and when you find them how do you gain access to these “unicorn” managers that are often closed to new investors.Niall O'Sullivan and Dave McMillan join Raelan Lambert to explain Mercer's approach in our latest episode of Critical Thinking recorded at the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Nashville. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Amid market volatility, we believe agility as a driver and enhancer of performance – has become the key attribute in building portfolios.However, not all volatility warrants the same responsiveness. Olaolu Aganga and Jay Love join Marc Cordover in our latest episode of Critical Thinking recorded at the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Nashville to help us pick out the signal in all the noise. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here 

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, Mercer's Michel Meert is joined by colleague Johnny Adji and Andrew Hunt from Marsh. Together, they delve into the world of alternative investments for Single Family Offices (SFOs), exploring the latest trends and strategies that are shaping this dynamic landscape.During their discussion, they shed light on the strategic asset allocation of long-term investors, providing insights into how SFOs can navigate private markets, including the ever-evolving realm of private equity. They emphasize the role of diversification in investment portfolios and share thoughts on managing risk in private equity investments.They also explore the growing emphasis on sustainability among the new generations within these families and highlight how private markets have potential when implementing sustainability strategies.Listen to the full episode to discover more.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, Gregg Sommer is joined by colleagues Marieke de Roo and Casey Wamsley to discuss alternative investments in the wealth management space. Together they explore the democratization of private markets, the importance of education, and the due diligence process. They also discuss the potential opportunities in hedge funds and the role of technology in accelerating growth in alternative investing.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, Orla Aherne sits down with Ronan O'Gara, Head Coach at La Rochelle and former professional rugby player as he shares his insights, experiences, and lessons learned on and off the field.Together with Mercer's Michael Lernihan, they share their perspectives on leadership, teamwork and achieving success in a competitive environment. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.Join us as Eimear Walsh, Head of Investments for Europe, takes you live to the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Dublin, where we dive deep into the world of Private Markets. The growth of private markets presents a multitude of possibilities, but success can hinge on adaptability and the ability to seize the right opportunities. Navigating this arena requires agility, a keen eye for identifying the most promising prospects and the ability to thrive in a competitive environment. In this episode, Eimear is joined by Mercer colleagues David Scopelliti and Michael Butler and together, they walk us through the opportunities in the private markets landscape and what it means for different types of investors. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.Recent market experiences have highlighted the importance for insurers to construct robust portfolios that not only support their primary business but also enable them to respond to evolving market risks and opportunities. In this episode, Marieke de Roo is joined by Francesco Martorana, Chief Investment Officer at Generali and Mercer colleague David Morrow live from the Global Investment Forum in Dublin. Together they unpack what it means to build agile portfolios in today's insurance landscape and discuss how insurers can navigate the ever-changing market dynamics and seize potential opportunities.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.Join us as Mark McNulty, Europe Wealth Leader, takes you live to the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Dublin to discuss the theme for this year's Forum "An Age of Agility." In this episode,  Mark is joined by Mercer colleagues, Garvan McCarthy and Jo Holden to explore the key findings from our recent Themes and Opportunities 2024 report and  discuss the strategies and insights that could help investors in this age of agility. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, our host Mark McNulty, Europe Wealth Leader, takes you live to the Mercer Global Investment Forum in Dublin. Together with Rich Nuzum and Jo Holden, they explore the impact of misinformation and disinformation on the investment landscape. Misinformation was identified as the number one risk in the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report*, making it a topic that demands our attention. Join us as we delve into the challenges of quantifying and assessing these risks in the investment sphere, especially in the face of rapidly evolving information flow and the integration of AI in investment processes.*https://www.weforum.org/publications/global-risks-report-2024/ This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, Global Alternatives Leader Raelan Lambert is joined by three esteemed guests: Billy Charlton, who shares his thoughts on the private equity perspective; David Scopelliti, who provides insights on private debt; and Dave McMillan, who discusses the implementation of hedge funds in portfolios. Together, they offer an overview of the Alternative investment landscape and discuss the top considerations for investors in 2024.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, Texas Hemmaplardh, US Not-for-Profit Investment Leader is joined by Olaolu Aganga, US Chief Investment Officer and Shane Brereton, Senior Investment Consultant, Australia to discuss the critical issues facing Endowment and Foundation (E&F) investors around the world and share practical takeaways for E&Fs navigating the ever-changing investment landscape. Together they also explore the challenges and opportunities that arise from the dynamic nature of long-term investing, including the impact of inflation on long-term investments, the role of private and unlisted assets in portfolio diversification and aligning investment objectives with changing market conditions.  This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.Following the 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos, Pat Tomlinson, President at Mercer and Nick Studer, CEO of Oliver Wyman joined Amy Barnes, Head of Sustainability and Climate at Marsh, to unpack some of the key themes emerging on the ground. They discuss why companies need to be more competitive in a more muted growth environment; how health access has become a priority topic for an increasing number of employers; and why companies need to think more about political risks going into 2024. You can find all the reports mentioned in this podcast at Marsh McLennan's website at www.marshmclennan.com.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode we explore the intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion in supply chains and delve into the crucial role that DEI plays in shaping and transforming supply chains for the better. To discuss, Cara Williams, Global ESG and Sustainability Leader for Mercer is joined by Kevin Davidson, Director, Esprit de Corps Consulting Ltd., Phil Styles, Diversity Supply Chain Leader, Mercer and James Crask, Head of Strategic Risk Consulting & Supply Chain Risk Advisory Leader, Marsh. Together they explore the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for creating inclusive and sustainable supply chains that can benefit both businesses and communities. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2024 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In the year since the previous COP in Egypt there has been little progress made in scaling adaptation.To discuss, Amy Barnes, Head of Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy at Marsh is joined by James Crask Head of Strategic Risk Consulting at Marsh UK and Rob Bailey, Partner at Oliver Wyman, specializing in climate and sustainability.Together they share insights into navigating the challenges and seizing possible opportunities presented by climate change. Also exploring how organizations can both build and embrace resilience by anticipating potential disruptions, quantifying risks, and developing response plans.For more information about Marsh McLennan's presence at COP28, contact the team at mercerinvestmentsolutions@mercer.com or visit  https://www.marshmclennan.com/pages/COP28.htmlMercer is proud of its ESG commitments, which are reported by Marsh McLennan, as well as its responsible investment policy and TCFD report. For further information, please visit www.mercer.com/investing-sustainably or www.marshmclennan.com/about/esg.html This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. In this episode Helga Birgden and Hill Gaston sat down with Debbie Fielder, Deputy Head of Clwyd Pension Fund to delve into the topic of transition. Together, they explore the crucial role investors play in driving the transition to a net-zero economy and how they can effectively manage investment risks, seize opportunities, and seek to mitigate the impacts of climate change.For more information about Marsh McLennan's presence at COP28, contact the team at mercerinvestmentsolutions@mercer.com or visit  https://www.marshmclennan.com/pages/COP28.htmlMercer is proud of its ESG commitments, which are reported by Marsh McLennan, as well as its responsible investment policy and TCFD report. For further information, please visit www.mercer.com/investing-sustainably or www.marshmclennan.com/about/esg.html This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.Our current long-term views on the world and the potential economic and social developments to watch out for fall into three themes: Regime change — one-off, open-ended paradigm shifts in conditionsSupercycles — conditions expected to outlast multiple market cyclesMegatrends — multidecade transitions that are gradually but steadily materializingIn this episode, Jo Holden sits down with Nick White and Matt Scot to explore the themes and opportunities we believe investors should consider in 2024 and beyond.Read the full report here: https://www.mercer.com/insights/investments/market-outlook-and-trends/themes-and-opportunities/This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions. Climate related risks are on the rise globally, with floods that were once considered one-in-200-year events occurring more frequently and impacting both advanced and developing economies. In first episode in our COP28 series, Andrew Bailey, Principal in Oliver Wyman's Government and Public Institutions practice sat down with Julian Enoizi, Chief Executive Officer of Guy Carpenter Europe. Together, they delve into the evolving challenges posed by climate change and explore the potential measures that both the public and private sector can take to address these issues.For more information about Marsh McLennan's presence at COP28, contact the team at mercerinvestmentsolutions@mercer.com or visit  https://www.marshmclennan.com/pages/COP28.htmlMercer is proud of its ESG commitments, which are reported by Marsh McLennan, as well as its responsible investment policy and TCFD report. For further information, please visit www.mercer.com/investing-sustainably or www.marshmclennan.com/about/esg.html This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode David Morrow is joined by Tamsin Coleman and Niall Clifford to delve into the world of private credit and its growing interest among insurance companies in today's dynamic financial landscape.Throughout, they explore the latest developments in the private credit market, discussing the potential opportunities for insurers within this asset class while also addressing the potential challenges they may face, including navigating regulatory intricacies, tackling operational complexities and integrating ESG principles.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In this episode, we delve into the world of Single Family Offices, each one a distinct entity with its own set of structures, objectives and internal dynamics. To explore, Paul Fleming is joined by Beth Johnson and Michel Meert, as they shed light on the challenges and opportunities that currently define the Single Family Office landscape.The discussion includes the role of governance, succession planning and the ever-evolving landscape of long-term investment trends, including the adoption of  impact-driven strategies.This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed are those of the speakers based on market conditions as of the date of recording, are subject to change without notice and do not necessarily reflect Mercer's opinions.In an era where people are living longer than ever before, it's crucial for businesses, governments, and individuals to rethink their strategies for planning for the later stages of life.In this episode, we'll be delving into the concept of the longevity economy looking at three fundamental pillars: quality of life, purpose, and financial resilience, presented in the recent report "Living Longer, Better: Understanding Longevity Literacy," a collaborative effort between the World Economic Forum and Mercer. To explore these insights, Graham Pearce is joined by Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO, the National Council on Aging, Haleh Nazeri, Longevity Lead at the World Economic Forum and Lin Shi, Global Consultant at Mercer seconded as a fellow to WEF. Read the full report: https://www.weforum.org/reports/living-longer-better-understanding-longevity-literacy/ This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell securities, commodities and/or any other financial instruments or products or constitute a solicitation on behalf of any of the investment managers, their affiliates. For the avoidance of doubt, this is not formal investment advice to allow any party to transact. Additional advice will be required in advance of entering into any contract.Read our full important notices - click here © 2023 Mercer (US) LLC. All rights reserved.