Benefits Canada

Head to head: Should Canadian pension funds be incentivized to invest domestically?

While both experts point to the obligation of the pension promise, one argues that many pension funds are already overweight in Canadian allocations, while the other cites these funds’ risk-return calibrations, highlighting the strategic assets available abroad. Jeremy Forgie, pension lawyer and senior counsel at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP Whether our governments should try […]

  • December 13, 2024 December 12, 2024
  • 08:58

Head to head: Are employers’ financial literacy initiatives translating into reality?

One expert suggests employers bridge their knowledge gap by finding ways to turn education into action, while another says companies’ commitments to ongoing financial literacy is helping to do just that. Roland Chiwetelu (pictured right), associate director of financial wellness, Eckler Ltd. One expert suggests employers bridge their knowledge gap by finding ways to turn […]

  • November 15, 2024 November 13, 2024
  • 08:59

Coverage of the 2024 DC Investment Forum

The volatile global conditions of the last four years have culminated in a looming economic downturn, impacting defined contribution pension plan sponsors and members alike. On Oct. 3 at the Omni King Edward Hotel in Toronto, the 2024 DC Investment Forum highlighted the various tools and strategies that can help plan sponsors navigate turbulent economic waters […]

  • November 6, 2024 October 31, 2024
  • 08:00

Head to head: Is it time for DC plan sponsors to quit the balanced fund?

One defined contribution plan sponsor sings the praises of the traditional balanced fund, while another outlines a different option that better matches risk levels according to plan members’ life stages. Rob Jackett, senior director of finance and administration at Canadian Baptist Ministries Balanced funds are still relevant today for employer-sponsored savings plans. It’s important for employers […]

  • December 15, 2023 December 14, 2023
  • 08:59

Head to head: Should psychedelics be used in the treatment of mental-health conditions?

Hallucinogens like ecstasy and magic mushrooms are being used in the treatment of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, but the risks may outweigh the benefits. Erika Dyck, Canada research chair and professor in history of health and social justice at the University of Saskatchewan Psychedelics may conjure images of beatniks, hippies and Deadheads, but recent […]

  • February 11, 2022 February 10, 2022
  • 08:59

Head to head: Should private drug plans require biosimilar non-medical switching?

While one side highlights how plan sponsors can contribute to biosimilar sustainability, the other touts the benefits to patients and the health-care system. Durhane Wong-Rieger, president and chief executive officer, Institute for Optimizing Health Outcomes The Institute for Optimizing Health Outcomes recently published a scorecard rating the biosimilar policy frameworks of European countries across seven […]

  • August 13, 2021 August 11, 2021
  • 08:59

Head to head: Should plan sponsors buy annuities via insurers or go DIY?

Two experts weigh in on the merits and drawbacks of taking the traditional annuities route versus opting for the newer do-it-yourself option. Marco Dickner, retirement risk management leader for Willis Towers Watson in Canada Although annuity purchases have become an important pension risk management option over the last decade, a countertrend is emerging for plan […]

  • May 14, 2021 June 2, 2021
  • 08:59

Conference Coverage: 2020 Face to Face Drug Plan Management Forum

On Dec. 9, the 2020 Face to Face Drug Plan Management Forum featured sessions on prior authorization, Canadian drug policy issues and impacts, plan design considerations related to chronic disease and pharmacy benefits management. Here’s what you missed! Biosimilars, pharmacogenetics shaping the future of pharmacy benefits management Plan sponsors with growing concerns about benefits plan […]

  • January 15, 2021 August 27, 2024
  • 09:00