Europe’s population is ageing and pension systems are under increased pressure. To address this, the European Commission launched in 2017 a framework for a pan-European personal pension product (PEPP). The proposal aims to support retirement saving and to encourage the development of personal pensions (voluntary individually funded pensions) in Europe. In 2018, the EU Institutions will continue reviewing the PEPP proposal aiming for implementation in 2019.

This factsheet provides an overview of the latest pension products initiative at the European level. It also expands on the profession’s role in providing assurance to private pension plans in the United States which has a long tradition in private retirement plans. Potential savers can rely on professional accountants’ assurance services to be better informed and for sound decision-making.