The authorisation process is raising master trust standards in a fast growing area of the workplace pension market by a thorough examination of scheme’s capabilities in areas such as their systems and processes, financial sustainability and fit and proper requirements for those exerting control over master trusts.
Following authorisation, master trusts will need to have business plans, continuity strategies and access to ring-fenced assets to protect members’ benefits should a trust be wound up.
Aegon’s master trust was acquired as part of the acquisition of BlackRock’s Defined Contribution and administration business. The master trust formally became Aegon Master Trust (AMT) in July 2018 and is a growing part of Aegon’s workplace business.
The Aegon Master Trust has £1.5bn total assets under management (AUM), more than 100,000 members and over 85 participating employers.
Ian Pittaway, Chair of Aegon Master Trust said: “The Trustees of the Aegon Master Trust are absolutely delighted that Aegon’s commitment to the master trust has been recognised through gaining authorisation. I look forward to the continued progress in this market, and the Aegon Master Trust playing its part. I am sure there are lots of exciting developments ahead which will improve the financial outcomes for members.”
Kate Smith, Head of Master Trust at Aegon UK is responsible for leading the development of Aegon’s master trust proposition including the authorisation process: “It’s been exciting to see how the new and improved master trusts market has been shaping up over the last few months and we are delighted that the Aegon Master Trust has joined the line-up of those authorised.
“Raised standards among master trusts means greater protection for members of all master trusts, something I have been calling for over many years. As supervision starts to kick in master trust standards will have to continue to be maintained to retain authorisation.
“This improved regulation and governance means employers and members, combined with a competitive market can feel reassured that they will be supported to achieve good member outcomes through engaging solutions to help people save for the future.
“Authorisation is just the start, we intend to continuously develop the Aegon Master Trust to enhance the experience for both employers and members.
“As confidence in the master trusts market continues to grow, we look forward to working with more employers in the future and supporting members on their journey to retirement and beyond.”
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