Defined benefit plans market update 

Robust economic data and the end of the debt-ceiling crisis have eased fears of a potential recession. However, it is still unclear if a strong job market will be able to counter the potential impact of rising interest rates as the Fed continues to battle inflation. For pension fund managers the challenge for the rest of the year will be how to balance potential market swings given the current uncertainty.

Our speakers discuss:

• Q2 2023 investment returns
• Interest rate changes and the impact on pension liabilities
• Strategic considerations for pension-fund managers
• Outlook for pension-funded status for the remainder of 2023

About our speakers

Jeff Gabrione, CFA | Jeff heads Buck’s U.S. manager research function within the Investments group and is responsible for managing due diligence and investment research across all asset classes. With more than 30 years of investment industry experience, including manager research and guidance, he works with consultants and clients on asset allocation and portfolio construction.

Mike Mecca, CFA | Mike is a Principal and Chief Investment Officer and North American Practice Leader for Buck’s Investment Consulting group. He specializes in investment consulting services for endowments, foundations, insurance companies, and defined contribution and defined benefit pension plans. He has more than 30 years of experience in the investment management industry (portfolio management, manager research, consulting) and is a CFA Charterholder.