Funding the Future Is your pension safe?
Jan 30, 2026
A clear dive into how UK pensions are structured and which types carry most risk. It outlines why defined contribution plans shift investment risk onto savers. It examines where pension money is actually placed and argues much of it fuels financial speculation. It highlights how current tax rules and subsidies favour the wealthy and sketches policy changes under discussion.
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Pensions Aren't Personal Savings
- Many people wrongly assume pensions are personal saved pots guaranteed for retirement.
- Richard Murphy explains pensions depend on others' behaviour and political choices, not just your contributions.
State Pension Is Inadequate And Political
- The state pension exists but is inadequate and politically dependent for increases.
- Murphy warns the triple-lock and inflation protection rely on government goodwill and can be altered.
Defined Benefit Pensions Are Shrinking
- Defined benefit pensions promise a fixed share of final salary and shift risk to employers.
- These schemes are shrinking in the private sector and now mainly remain in public services.