Report
Aon 2025/26 Global Pension Risk Survey
2026
Rethinking the Defined Contribution Operating Model
Gain insights from 500+ employers on how organizations are reshaping DC to improve retirement outcomes.
People are living longer and defined contribution plans play a central role in retirement security. This report explores what's changing and how employers can adapt to deliver better outcomes for their workforces.
Key Takeaways
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DC plans have overtaken defined benefit (DB) plans in many markets as the primary workplace retirement savings vehicle, prompting employers to reassess operating models.
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Leading employers are exploring delegated and pooled approaches, smarter defaults, and applying a sharper focus on retirement income adequacy.
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DC governance capacity, investment outcomes, and member engagement are key levers for improving retirement outcomes.
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Three pillars stand out among leading DC plans: smart plan design that targets outcomes, smart engagement that supports decisions, and smart governance that balances internal oversight with specialist expertise and scale.
The most advanced employers are bringing an institutional wealth lens to Defined Contribution. They embed target outcomes in their default strategies, use automation to drive consistent saving and investment behaviors, and hold DC portfolios to robust standards of diversification, risk management, and oversight.
Different countries, different regulations — but the same underlying pressures and priorities.
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45%
of workers globally believe employers should play a role in supporting long-term savings
Aon Employee Sentiment Study 2025
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13%
of multinationals have clear sight into retirement income adequacy
A New Blueprint for Outcome-Focused DC Plans
Employers are under growing pressure to ensure their DC plans can deliver adequate, sustainable retirement income. Responding to these shifts requires a more deliberate approach to DC operating models – aligning governance, scale and plan design to real income needs. Download the full report to explore the findings and practical actions for your Defined Contribution strategy.
Related Insights
Unlock new perspectives by exploring the latest insights and research from our team.
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