Research Agenda 2025/26

Paving the Way for Continued Innovation in the AB UK Target Date Funds

30 July 2025

1 min read

Every year AB’s DC team sets out its research priorities for the coming 12 months. The research findings pave the way for enhancements to our DC TDF ranges across investments, product development and client reporting. What’s new for 2026?

We are committed to continuous improvement across our DC strategies, based on thorough research into priority areas both for investments and for client experience. Our research for the year ahead can be segmented into the following key themes:

Optimizing Risk Levels

Reviewing our established member risk budgets to ensure that we are taking the optimal level of risk within our glide path strategies. This enables us to target the maximum level of return potential while avoiding an unsuitable level of risk. This review will consider new product evolution and new market research.
Enhancing Diversification and Risk Management

Considering allocations and alternative approaches that allow us to unlock additional returns, and/or to better manage risk. Ultimately, more efficient diversified asset allocation allows us to incorporate higher-growth-orientated asset exposures without taking more overall risk in the glide path strategy. We incorporate in this agenda item research related to managing strategies’ ESG risks.
Improving Client Transparency

Continuing to improve insights for our clients and their members on how their money is invested.
Innovative Product and Policy Development

Building new product concepts to address emerging client challenges and needs, as well as innovating to update existing concepts.

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About the Author

This is a marketing communication. This information is provided by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London, EC2M 5SJ. Registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA - Reference Number 147956). It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or an invitation to purchase any security or other investment. The views and opinions expressed are based on our internal forecasts and should not be relied upon as an indication of future market performance. The value of investments in any of the Funds can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount invested. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This information is directed at Professional Clients only and is not intended for public use.