News updates

The Trustee always acts in the best interests of members and follows all UK and international laws, including any sanctions. Our investment approach is long‑standing, prudent, and designed to manage these kinds of global uncertainties.

Our direct exposure to assets linked to that region is minimal, and Railpen and the Trustee are continuing to monitor developments closely as events unfold.

How DB pensions are affected

Defined Benefit (DB) pensions are not impacted the same way by periods of market volatility, where investment values may move up and down. The benefits you receive are based on the Scheme and Section Rules, your salary and time in the Scheme – not by day‑to‑day movements in investment markets.

The IWDC Section, BRASS, AVC Extra and the schemes’ investments funds

Our investments are structured for long‑term performance and are diversified across a broad range of geographies, sectors, and asset types. This approach helps safeguard members’ savings during periods of uncertainty.

Our DC funds (BRASS, IWDC and AVC Extra) are also designed with the long term in mind, though short‑term market volatility (investment values changing) can affect the value of your BRASS pot. If you are invested in a Lifestyle strategy, your pot will automatically begin to de‑risk as you approach your Target Retirement Age, helping to reduce exposure to market fluctuations as you get closer to retirement.

If you are concerned about the risk of your DC pot, you can find lots of information on this website to help you consider your current investment selection. If you want to make a change, you can do this in your myRPS account.

Your pension remains secure and carefully managed

We’ve navigated periods of geopolitical tension many times before, and the structure of the pooled funds allows us to balance risk and opportunity even when global markets are unsettled.

We are keeping the situation under close review. If anything changes that could materially affect members, we will ensure clear and timely updates are provided.

It’s completely understandable to have concerns at times like this. Please be assured that your pension remains secure, carefully managed, and supported by a long-term investment strategy built to withstand market volatility.