External influences on our business
Being global leaders in pensions de-risking
Growth driver
Ageing demographics
People are living longer, which means that pension savings need to last longer. By 2040, the number of people in the UK aged 75 and over is estimated to rise to nearly 10 million.
Our motivation
Defined Benefit (DB) pensions are in crisis. An estimated £560 billion of DB pensions within the private sector is under extreme pressure due to low interest rates and the ageing population.
What we do
We can help companies who have DB pension schemes by effectively "de-risking" their pension liabilities. This means that members' pensions can be paid on time and in full.
Continue to build a world-class international asset management business
Growth driver
Globalisation of asset markets
Global wealth assets are valued at over $80 trillion. Our share of this number is around 1.2% (and growing) as we export more of our skills internationally.
Our motivation
Our business is both successful in the UK and the US. We're actively applying our skills in other areas such as Asia and the Middle East.
What we do
Our international businesses are continuously expanding across the US, Europe, the Gulf and Asia. Our asset management and risk management skills are considered to be market leading as we look to apply the same successful business model in other locations around the world.
Use long-term capital to become the UK leader in direct investments
Growth driver
Creating real assets
Due to years of under-investment, there is an urgent need to invest in infrastructure and urban regeneration. Assets need to be invested over the very long term so we can improve returns for shareholders, provide pension holder security and breath life back into areas which once thrived. Many cities in the UK (outside of London) need investment to match global competitors. Our housing developments look to help towards solving the housing crisis.
Rationale
We invest over £56 billion of the group’s pension annuity assets in higher performing risk-adjusted classes. This means that direct investments can offer better and more predictable returns to shareholders. It also creates many economic benefits for the UK.
What we do
We offer investment solutions at every stage of a scheme’s life cycle. From the growth phase, through de-risking with LDI and bulk annuities, right to the setting up of new DC schemes.
We help people achieve financial security by providing insurance and workplace pensions
Growth driver
Welfare reforms
Many families that rely on state benefits struggle to survive financially following the death, disability or long-term sickness of a loved one. People need help to save more for retirement and to build financial independence.
Our motivation
Many households struggle financially following a death, disability or sickness in the family. Company and individual insurance cover can help safeguard families from financial uncertainty.
What we do
By providing insurance that covers life, critical illness, disability, long-term sickness, buildings, possessions, pet and travel, we help people protect themselves from financial troubles should the unthinkable happens.
Achieve market leadership in digital provision of insurance and retail investments
Growth driver
Technological innovation
As consumer tech continues to evolve, so does the way we all manage our finances. Reliable and relevant technological solutions can mean the difference between success and failure.
Our motivation
Its no surprise that consumers often choose companies that offer low prices and digital access. Our digital strategy allows insurance customers to obtain quotes, apply for policies and review and renew them using mobile technology.
What we do
We want to be a market leader in offering consumers digital access to life insurance, general insurance and personal investments. At the same time we need to give our customers an excellence in service delivery at a low cost, achieved through efficient digital operating models. Our continuous developments of emerging technology - including blockchain - will raise efficiency levels for both customers and businesses.
Building economic growth by investing in our futures
Growth driver
Today’s capital
In recent years, equity investment capital has been in short supply. The UK needs investment in modern, digital start-up businesses to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Our motivation
Consumers often choose companies that can offer low prices and digital access. We believe that the market will favour businesses that build low-cost, efficient, digital operating models.
What we do
We are committed to investing in SME businesses over the long-term - providing support to the UK economy, creating jobs, long-term infrastructure, better housing and available capital to fund start-up businesses, whilst giving a better risk-adjusted return for shareholders.