Aging populations strain global pension systems, Marsh report finds
MRSH•Marsh's 2026 Global Pension Index says falling fertility rates and rising life expectancy are straining retirement systems worldwide. It covers 55 systems representing 66% of the world's population; the average score rose 1.1 points from 2025, and Australia earned its first A grade.
1. Index findings
Marsh's 2026 Global Pension Index warns that falling fertility rates and rising life expectancy are straining retirement systems worldwide. The index covers 55 systems representing 66% of the world's population; its average overall score rose 1.1 points from 2025, and five systems improved their grades. Australia received its first A grade, bringing the number of top-rated systems to six.
2. Policy priorities
The report identifies clearer pension objectives, stronger funding for future obligations and more flexible retirement design as policy priorities.
