Solidarity reserve: a buffer for a more stable pension In our pension scheme, we build up a financial buffer collectively. We call this buffer the solidarity reserve. On this page, you can find out what the solidarity reserve is, what we use it for and when we use it.
What is the solidarity reserve?
In the new pension scheme, we build up a buffer collectively. This is called the solidarity reserve. We build this up in more favourable times so that we can absorb or mitigate a reduction in pension benefits in less favourable times. The solidarity reserve is filled up with a small portion of the income from investments. By far the largest part of the income from investments is intended for members’ pension assets.
What do we use the solidarity reserve for?
We use the solidarity reserve to keep pensions stable and absorb financial risks. It therefore helps:
- avoid having to reduce pensions;
- reduce the risks for members who are building up a pension;
- ensure that you always have pension, no matter how old you get to be.
When do we use the solidarity reserve?
If you are a pensioner, your pension will change no more than once a year. This always takes place on 1 January. Every autumn, we calculate by how much pensions will rise, fall or stay the same. If pensions are set to fall, we use money from the solidarity reserve to minimise that fall as much as possible. We reassess each year whether it is necessary to draw on the solidarity reserve. If we need the solidarity reserve, we will use a maximum of 25% of the solidarity reserve each year.
Frequently asked questions
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No, not always. If the economy performs unfavourably for a prolonged period, a reduction in pensions may still be necessary. In such a situation, we will use the solidarity reserve to minimise the impact as far as possible. However, if things go unfavourably for a long time, the reserve may shrink and may not be large enough to fully prevent a reduction in pensions.
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On 1 January 2026, the solidarity reserve comprised 7.5% of all pension assets. This is the maximum size of the reserve.
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In good years, we top up the solidarity reserve with a small proportion of the return on our investments. The size of that proportion depends on the size of the buffer and the return on our investments. If the buffer is nearly full, for example, less is added to it. The amount we put into the buffer can therefore vary from year to year.