In our answer, PensionsEurope thanks the ECB for an open dialogue on streamlining statistical reporting requirements for pension funds, and taking many concerns by PensionsEurope into account so far. We also highlight our remaining concerns and stress that we are ready and willing to further provide our expertise to the ECB in order that the benefits of the new reporting requirements will outweigh the costs. Please find our general remarks here and specific comments here.

On 20 September 2017, PensionsEurope responded to the questionnaire on the Interim Report of the High-Level Expert Group on Sustainable Finance. In our response, we make several suggestions on how to enhance pension funds’ role in sustainable finance and long-term investment. Pension funds are natural long-term investors and can play an important role in funding green projects, provided they are not unduly constrained by regulation. We have commented on ideas in the Interim Report that aim to improve information for investors through initiatives such as bond labels, a taxonomy of sustainable assets and corporate reporting. We highlight our concerns on the practicalities and usefulness of integrating ESG risks in stress tests. We also argue any reporting requirements for pension funds should focus on measurable and objective information, while imposing a proportionate additional administrative burden. Please find our response here.

The EU’s High-Level Expert Group on Sustainable finance published its early recommendations on 13 July. PensionsEurope welcomes the initiative and will work with members to respond to the public consultation that will be launched shortly and is expected to run until mid-September.

You can read our press release here.