As the UK’s pension risk transfer (PRT) market continues to surge, data has become the ultimate differentiator between schemes that transact quickly and those that stall. With over £40bn of bulk annuity transactions expected again this year, insurers are increasingly selective - prioritising schemes that can demonstrate clean, accurate, and complete data from the outset.
Every buy-in and buyout relies on a foundation of data. From member details and benefits histories to GMP records and addresses, even the smallest inconsistency can slow progress or lead to higher pricing. Schemes with accurate, validated data are able to complete due diligence faster, provide insurers with greater confidence, and avoid the delays that come from data gaps and recalculations.
This focus on data accuracy isn’t new, but the scale of today’s PRT market makes it more important than ever. With limited insurer capacity, schemes that are PRT-ready are the ones most likely to secure favourable pricing and faster transaction timelines.
Explore this in more detail in Why data accuracy is vital in pension buy-ins and buyouts
For schemes looking to de-risk efficiently, good data isn’t just about compliance, it’s a competitive advantage. Insurers base their pricing and risk assumptions on the quality of the information they receive. High-quality data can reduce the amount of due diligence required, speed up pricing negotiations, and unlock smoother end-to-end execution.
Technology now plays a key role in making that possible. Tools like Heywood Passport enable schemes to validate, audit, and reconcile data with precision, giving all parties a shared view of data quality. This kind of collaboration ensures accuracy, transparency, and trust, three essential ingredients in every successful pension risk transfer.
Learn more about Heywood Passport’s pension risk transfer technology
Strong data governance doesn’t just support transactions; it enhances trust. Accurate records mean members receive correct communications, advisers can work with clarity, and trustees can demonstrate control. For schemes navigating GMP equalisation or preparing for buyout, the ability to prove data quality can make all the difference in achieving a confident, timely transaction.
For further reading, see Breaking the bottleneck: Why GMP equalisation and data challenges are delaying buyouts in 2025