discount rates

Liability assumptions have wiped out higher than expected asset returns and a de-risking exercise for the Johnston Press Pension Plan, its final year accounts show.

February's continued boost in equities has seen FTSE350 scheme deficits decrease according to Mercer despite continued negative deficit reports coming from 2012 final year results.

Jack Jones looks at responses to the DWP consultation on smoothing discount rates

Troubled clothing retailer Peacocks has seen its scheme deficit increase by 73% as the scheme undergoes assessment to enter the Pension Protection Fund.

British Airways has seen its combined defined benefit deficit increase despite asset increases of over €2bn (£1.73bn), its final results show.

The Royal Bank of Scotland's defined benefit deficit has risen to £3.9bn over 2012 in a year which saw it fall as low as £1.7bn, its final results show.

The latest set of financial results from FTSE companies has re-ignited the debate over smoothing discount rates as strong asset returns were wiped out due to falls in discount rates.

National Express has seen its schemes' overall deficit increase more than ten times despite securing a buy-in for one of its three schemes.

ITV's scheme deficit rose from £390m to £551m over 2012 as a falling discount rate continued to inflict pain on the broadcaster's balance sheet.

Premier Foods will use the consumer prices index to calculate benefits in its RHM Pension Scheme following a 66% spike in overall deficits, its 2012 results show.