Traditional pension systems based on pay-as-you-go (PAYG) have become more difficult to sustain in developed countries as a result of continued population ageing, fewer children in the family and weak economic growth. Over the past decades, pension systems have gradually shifted from defined-benefit (DB) plan to defined-contribution (DC) plan.
“The ‘perfect’ scenario priced in by the markets seems a bit excessive. Investors should stay defensive, with a slightly positive stance on duration, a cautious view on equities, and explore long-term value in EM.”