Increased interest rate hedging

The board considers it prudent to limit the risk of a sharp decrease in the coverage ratio in the run-up to the introduction of the new pension contract. A first important step has therefore been taken. The hedging of the interest rate risk of pension obligations was increased in two steps from 50% to 100% at the end of December and the beginning of January.

Significant changes are on the horizon in the pension scheme. Social partners at Robeco and the pension fund are preparing for the transition to a flexible scheme in the new pension system. The current pension entitlements will be ‘merged’ into the new premium scheme. Furthermore, the pension fund’s buffers must be evenly distributed among the participants.

Fortunately, Robeco’s pension fund is in good shape, with a coverage ratio even exceeding 150%. However, a lot can still change in the financial markets until the merger, currently targeted for January 1, 2026. Due to the interest rate hedging, the sensitivity of the coverage ratio to interest rate fluctuations has been significantly reduced. The board and the investment committee are still investigating whether further adjustments to the investment policy are necessary. If so, we will communicate this on the website.