Societal responsibility of pension funds

Lars Hansen’s work lies at the interface between financial markets and macroeconomic developments. The last financial crisis has made clear that both can no longer be seen separately. Given their enormous wealth, pension funds can exert a large influence on the Dutch economy. But, should they…?

In addition to Lars Hansen, Gisella van Vollenhoven (DNB) and Wouter Koolmees (Minister of Social affairs and employment) will share their views. The focus of the symposium will be on the role that Dutch pension funds and insurance companies (should) play in the Dutch economy.

During this meeting we try to find answers to the following questions:

1. Should pension funds play an active role in the climate change discussion and, in particular, feel responsible for meeting the Paris goals? And, should they also if that leads to a lower pension?
2. Suppose we enter a recession, should funds increase their risky investments to dampen the effects? And, can they?
3. As all over the world, there is a Netherlands-first movement. Some politicians think that Dutch pension funds should only invest in the Netherlands. is that wise (for a small open economy)?