Research shows that historically there has been a meaningful shortfall in the returns of defined contribution plans versus those of defined benefit plans. Best practices in institutional investing can potentially help close this gap. Central to our investment philosophy is the belief that diversification, downside risk mitigation, and active management at compelling fees can be key drivers of retirement success.
Whether using premixed investment options or constructing portfolios from a core menu, participants may be better served by having access to a broader set of asset classes.
We think it is important to consider strategies that help diversify a portfolio by economic environment, asset class, and return source, including strategies with the potential to perform independently of the markets.
DC plans have scale to obtain active management at compelling fees. Even modest incremental returns may have a meaningful impact on retirement outcomes. Wellington has a long history of successful active management and we believe DC plans should ensure they offer quality active choices to their participants.
Collective investment trusts
Wellington Trust Company, NA, an affiliate of Wellington Management Company LLP, offers a variety of investment approaches through daily valued collective investment trusts that are available solely to certain qualified employee retirement plans.
Wellington Management Company LLP offers management of separate accounts for DC plans interested in bespoke strategies with customized guidelines.
Mutual funds
Many of our strategies are available in mutual funds offered by our subadvisory clients.
The alpha advantage: building retirement resilience
Client Portfolio Manager Dáire Dunne explains why the time horizon of retirement savers is well aligned with the potential of active management to deliver alpha. He examines the growing need for alpha, the importance of market inefficiency when pursuing it, and steps plan sponsors can take to help participants maximize the alpha advantage.
One battle after another: Time to reset expectations?
How might the historic energy shock impact portfolio decisions in the coming months? We offer our take on the implications for equities, bonds, and commodities.
Iran ceasefire – risk deferred, not removed
The US and Iran have announced a two-week ceasefire. While this reduces immediate tail risk, Geopolitical Strategist Thomas Mucha cautions against mistaking it for a resolution. What should investors be watching now?
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Asset Allocation Outlook
How to evolve your portfolio for the latest market conditions? Explore the latest monthly snapshot of Wellington Solutions' asset class views.
Monthly Market Review — February 2026
A monthly update on equity, fixed income, currency, and commodity markets.
The economy needs more competition. AI can make that happen.
Brij Khurana believes that as AI evolves, it will challenge traditional business moats and revitalize competition across industries. This transformation could lead to increased productivity, higher real wages, and stronger economic growth.
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Chart in Focus: Diversifying for different macro regimes
Against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical uncertainty, our experts Alex King and Joshua Riefler explore how to optimise diversification across different macro regimes.
US exceptionalism: 5 perspectives on 2 truths
Our experts discuss the paradox of US exceptionalism today, emphasizing diversification and active management in response to evolving global economic trends.
Investment insights on the Middle East: A roundtable discussion
In a special roundtable discussion, our investment experts discuss the Middle East crisis, including geopolitical developments, energy prices, emerging markets, and multi-asset implications.
The Fed’s growing footprint on the market has a cost
Brij Khurana explains what the Federal Reserve's balance sheet expansion may mean for inflation and asset prices.
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Implementing decarbonisation guidelines: lessons learned in collaboration with clients
For asset owners with net-zero ambitions, balancing decarbonisation goals with investment objectives can be a challenge. Climate Transition Risk Analyst Julie Delongchamp outlines a practical five-step approach to implementing tailored guidelines.
Rebalancing a multi-asset portfolio: A guide to the choices and trade-offs
Many investors wrestle with portfolio rebalancing decisions, particularly in volatile environments. In this paper, members of our Investment Strategy Team argue for a well-structured rebalancing policy and share research on different approaches and common implementation considerations.
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Kristin O’Donnell
, CFA
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