Master Trusts: Default investment strategies

Master Trust default investment strategies during market volatility

As Master Trust default investment strategies continue to develop, private market assets have grown in prominence. Most providers are now either incorporating or actively considering private market exposure, whether within their standard default arrangements or via premium offerings.

Over the past year, the strongest-performing master trusts have been those using factor-based strategies, with greater allocations to equities exhibiting positive momentum.

This report explores how master trust investment approaches are changing. While private markets are increasingly adopted, implementation methods vary across providers.

For employers and trustees reviewing or choosing a master trust, this report provides valuable insight into the differences in default strategy design and how these have translated into performance.

What’s inside? 

• Beyond the one-year mark: How performance rankings change over time

• Net zero: Trajectories across UK master trusts

• How are providers incorporating responsible investment?