Inspired by Rob Gardner and infuriated by my luck of understanding of what my money’s up to, I’m determined to get to grips with all these promises about pension schemes getting to net zero.

So I’m going to a conference about this at the London Stock Exchange in Paternoster Square, EC4. You might like to join me when you see the agenda (here)

Decent speakers

Proper questions.

Reading through the questions being asked in the various sessions, I realise that I’m not at first base. How do you feel when you read the following?

Roadmaps & action plans – credible net zero journeys and the steps to get there

Roadmaps have been set, but what does it take to get to net zero by 2030, 40 or 50? How do you deliver a credible action plan and what interim targets and steps should be taken to ensure you stay on track?

1. What are good benchmarks for net zero?
2. How much of strategic reallocation will this mean?

Greening default plans – what will this look like?

1. Greening default plans presents a big challenge.
2. Can passive strategies ever align with net zero goals?
3. What does a good action plan for greener default plans look like?
4. What does this mean for asset allocation going forward?

Engagement in focus – net zero as an engagement tool

The buzz around net zero has been presented as an opportunity for the DC community to get members more engaged with their pensions, but just how engaged are members and what can be done to communicate net zero options and aspirations?

1. Is there a benefit to increased member engagement on  net zero issues or will this cause more issues than it solves?
2. How do you best communicate net zero goals and progress to members?

Investing in illiquids for net zero – challenges and opportunities for DC schemes

Illiquid assets, particularly private markets investments have been seen as a key component of achieving real-world carbon reductions through investments in, for example, renewable infrastructure but how compatible is this with the fiduciary responsibilities of a DC investor?

1. What kinds of private markets investment are suitable for DC investors?
2. What structures will work best for the DC investor?
3. Will further DC consolidation drive a greater tolerance/appetite for illiquid assets?

Stewardship & Corporate Engagement

One of the key strategies for achieving real world additionality is without a doubt robust engagement. However, best practice is still evolving and the role of asset owner coalitions, asset manager and asset owner co-operation is not yet a settled matter. What does a sensible escalation strategy look like and when is it simply time to divest?

Incorporating biodiversity concerns into DC investing

Biodiversity has become a key theme in recent years and natural-capital solutions have been gaining in prominence. How can the DC community best face this challenge and turn it into an opportunity?

1. How can you make biodiversity-friendly changes to your investment portfolio without compromising return?
2. What sorts of investments exist (afforestation, blue economy etc.)
3. Will biodiversity assets be primarily growth or income-generating assets going forward?

Priced to suit your budget

A conference priced at an amount we should be able to afford.

You can register here