As pension regulators narrow their priorities heading into 2026, the Association of Canadian Pension Management is placing greater emphasis on flexible pension plan design, with a focus on member outcomes, governance and clarity.
Korinne Collins, chief executive officer at the ACPM, notes flexibility across the accumulation and decumulation stages is rising on the industry’s agenda as governments and regulators focus on fewer higher-impact issues.
Read: ACPM focusing on flexible pension models, CAPSA guidelines in 2025
“I think it’s getting higher on the list,” Collins notes, pointing to recent federal shifts. “It’s focusing on what really matters.”
Regulators also appear to be taking a more streamlined approach, concentrating on areas where guidance and supervision can have the greatest impact. “Maybe fewer, but more important things to focus on, or where they want to add some guidance.”
That approach aligns with the updated capital accumulation plan and risk management guidance from the Canadian Association of Pension Supervisory Authorities, which plan sponsors implemented on Jan. 1.
While ACPM members continue working toward alignment, the guidance focuses less on day-to-day operations and more on longer-term planning.
“We’re not seeing a significant shift in operational activity. The focus is on preparing for future risks rather than managing funds differently on a daily basis.”
Collins points to an opportunity for pension plans to take a broader view of members across their career and into retirement, as the conversation increasingly moves beyond accumulation. “For a long time, plans have focused on saving. What’s becoming more important is what options are available to members as they move beyond accumulation.”
Collaboration among plan sponsors and more consistent communication also remain important, given the complexity of pension plans. “The more we’re seeing the same sorts of things, the clearer it is for members and the average consumer.”
Read: How CAPSA’s updated CAP guideline will impact plan sponsors, members
Looking ahead, plans that understand their member segments and how needs evolve over time will be better positioned, with the industry continuing to learn collectively.
“There’s a lot of talent and passion in the pension industry; everyone is focused on how important strong retirement income is for members.”