Pensions - Articles - Highest levels of pension transfers since July 2020

 The Scams Red Flag Index fell in June, but still remains at a very high level, with 55% of transfers showing at least one warning sign of a potential scam or the potential for poor member outcomes.

 There was a very small fall in the Transfer Value Index, reflecting a continued period of stability in the financial markets.

 XPS Pension Group’s Transfer Watch monitors how market developments have affected transfer values for a typical pension scheme member. It also monitors how many members are choosing to take a transfer from their DB pension scheme and, through its Red Flag Index, the incidence of scam red flags identified at the point of transfer.

 On 6 July, the Government published its response to the Work and Pensions Committee’s report on the first phase of its inquiry “Protecting pension savers – five years on from the pension freedoms”. In it, the Government rejected the committee’s recommendation that the upcoming Online Safety Bill should do more to tackle online advertising of fraudulent pension products.

 Mark Barlow, Head of Member Options, XPS Pensions Group commented: “We have seen fewer transfers and retirements over the past twelve months, so it’s no surprise that we’re now seeing an increase in activity as lockdown restrictions are eased. Whilst scam warning signs remain so high, and with no immediate prospect of laws combatting fraudulent online pensions adverts being strengthened, it’s as important as ever that trustees and employers take steps to support and protect their members.”

 
 Chart 1 – XPS Transfer Value and Transfer Activity Index