The multi-fund structure was introduced by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) to provide pension contributors with a more tailored and diversified investment approach based on their risk appetite and age.
Features of the Multi-fund Structure in Nigeria:
Categorization of Funds
Under the Pension Multi-fund Structure, pension funds are categorised into four different funds labelled Fund I, Fund II, Fund III, and Fund IV. Effective 2 July 2018, contributions who are 49 years and below at the last recorded birthday, will by default be categorised into Fund II. If 50 years and above but still in active service, will by default fall into Fund III. However, the Retiree Fund, which is Fund IV, will remain unchanged for retired contributors.
Additionally, three other funds exist to cater to the Micro pension contributors (Fund V) and the Non-interest fund contributors (Fund VI Active and Fund VI Retiree).
Each fund has its own risk and return profile as follows:
Fund I: Geared towards young investors who are open to assuming higher investment risks in pursuit of potentially greater returns. It allocates funds to more volatile assets like stocks and real estate.
Fund II: Tailored for individuals in their middle years who aim for a balanced strategy, striking a harmony between risk and returns. Investments encompass a blend of stocks, fixed-income securities, and diverse financial instruments.
Fund III: Crafted for contributors nearing retirement, this portfolio emphasizes cautious investments, featuring a larger proportion allocated to fixed-income securities while minimizing exposure to stocks.
Fund IV: Exclusively catering to retirees, this portfolio is structured to furnish steady retirement income. Its core focus is on low-risk assets such as government bonds and other fixed-income vehicles.
Fund V: Reserved solely for informal sector contributors – including self-employed individuals and freelancers – with adaptable contribution schedules: daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly. The portfolio designates a maximum of 40% for potential withdrawals, reserving 60% as retirement savings. If transitioning to formal employment, contributors can shift to other portfolios (Options I, II, III, VI).
Fund VI: Exclusively for active or retired contributors desiring ethical, non-interest-based investment of their retirement savings.
Summary of the multi-fund structure below:
Automatic Switching:
As a contributor transitions to a new age category (e.g., progressing from youth to middle age), their pension account is seamlessly transferred to the suitable fund. This ensures that the investment approach remains in harmony with the contributor's evolving tolerance for risk and investment duration.
Freedom of Choice and Adaptability:
Contributors possess the liberty to shift between funds in accordance with their risk appetite and investment objectives. However, there might be constraints on the frequency of transitions to discourage abuse.
Risk and Returns:
The funds offer diverse levels of risk and potential rewards. Fund I generally involves heightened risk but holds the potential for amplified long-term gains, whereas Fund IV is centred around consistency and steady income generation for retirees.
Regulation and Oversight:
The National Pension Commission (PenCom) is tasked with overseeing and regulating Nigeria's pension sector, encompassing the execution and surveillance of the Multi-fund Structure.
Benefits of the Multi-Fund Structure
Diversification: The multi-fund structure allows pension contributors to choose from a range of investment options with varying levels of risk and return potential. This enables diversification of investments, reducing the overall risk of a pension portfolio.
Risk Management: The multi-fund structure caters to individuals with different risk appetites. Contributors can select a fund that aligns with their risk tolerance and financial goals, thereby enhancing risk management.
Higher Returns: By offering different funds with varying investment strategies, the multi-fund structure aims to potentially achieve higher returns over the long term. Contributors who are comfortable with higher risk may choose funds with potentially higher returns.
Flexibility: The multi-fund structure provides pension contributors with the flexibility to switch between funds based on changing market conditions, their financial goals, or evolving risk preferences.
Tailored Approach: The multi-fund structure allows pension contributors to tailor their investments to their individual needs, helping them achieve their retirement objectives more effectively.
Market Participation: By offering different funds, the multi-fund structure encourages more active participation in the financial markets, potentially contributing to market growth and development.
Adaptation to Economic Changes: Different funds within the multi-fund structure can adapt to changing economic conditions, allowing pension assets to be invested in a manner that optimizes returns while managing risk.
Transparency and Accountability: The multi-fund structure can enhance transparency and accountability in the management of pension funds. Contributors can track the performance of different funds and hold fund managers accountable for their investment decisions.
Incentive for Efficient Management: Fund managers are incentivised to perform well to attract pension contributors into their funds, potentially leading to improved management practices.
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