Growing Opportunity In Small And Mid-Sized Pension Market

HARTFORD, Conn., April 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Insurers have a significant opportunity to expand assets in the small and midsized pension market, according to a new study by Conning.

"Insurers are uniquely positioned to serve the small and midsized pension plan market, which showed plan growth of 5 percent in 2011, and which contains the majority of plans overall," said Scott Hawkins, analyst at Conning. "The market is dynamic, with frequent provider reviews, so detailed market knowledge and specialized distribution expertise are critical to insurer success. Large insurers can respond to the demand for more complex product offerings needed by midsized pension plans, and midsized insurers can effectively respond to the needs of the small pension plan. While there are a relatively small number of insurer participants in the pension market, they have significant and growing presence."

The Conning study, "Small and Midsized Pension Plans: Market Analysis and Insurer Opportunity" analyzes pension plan filing data for the five year period 2007-2011. Findings are presented regarding the market mechanics of the defined contribution and defined benefit markets along with insurer participation in each. Data for market sizing, insurer rankings and market requirements are presented.

"Over the next few years insurers have the opportunity to increase their share of the changing small and midsized pension plan market," said Steven Webersen, director of research at Conning. "Plan sponsors need to consolidate product and service providers in response to regulatory changes, while at the same time meet more demanding reporting requirements. Insurers prepared to present administrative and product solutions  can compete effectively for market share."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

"Small and Midsized Pension Plans: Market Analysis and Insurer Opportunity" is available for purchase from Conning by calling (888) 707-1177 or by visiting the company's web site at www.conningresearch.com.

About Conning
Conning (www.conning.com) is a leading investment management company for the global insurance industry, with almost $86 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2013 through Conning, Inc., Conning Asset Management Limited, Cathay Conning Asset Management Limited, and Goodwin Capital Advisers. The company's unique combination of asset management, risk and capital management solutions and insurance research helps clients achieve their financial goals through customized business and investment strategies. Founded in 1912, Conning is focused on the future, providing clients with innovative solutions, leveraging its global capabilities, investment experience, and proprietary research. The company is headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, with additional offices in Purchase, London, Cologne, and Hong Kong.

SOURCE Conning, Inc.