Regulatory Alerts2026-05-21
Developments in the Pension Sector - Pension Sector Overview 2026
The Dutch Financial Markets Authority (AFM) issued this 2026 sector overview to analyze pension market developments based on 2024 reporting data, highlighting significant variations in flat premium levels, partner pension coverage, and investment freedom utilization among participants in the transitioning defined contribution system. The report reveals that while the lowering of the pension accrual starting age to 18 has expanded participation, many participants still face low replacement ratios and limited risk coverage, prompting the AFM to urge administrators to proactively inform members about their actual pension prospects and survivor benefits. Additionally, complaint data indicates that calculation and payment issues dominate service quality concerns, with pension funds registering far more complaints per participant than premium pension institutions, though the vast majority are resolved within weeks.