Lifecycle Investing with Target Date Funds

Consumer demand and regulatory changes in the UK, is driving growth of innovative solutions that are easier to use, simpler to understand, offer good value for money, and create better customer outcomes. A key tool in this growing sector are asset allocation funds such as Target Date Funds (TDFs), which are being used as a single fund whose objectives can change over the investor's lifecycle as time goes on. Target Date Funds are used as a default investment option for workplace pensions by providers including the government's own scheme (NEST), and are gaining renewed interest in the retail funds sector.Within the context of asset allocation funds, Target Date Funds differ from risk profiled or target risk funds because they also incorporate the investment time horizon within the asset allocation strategy. The strategy within each fund typically becomes more conservative over time, on approach to and after the Target Date, which is when withdrawals are expected to commence. This is to match changing objectives within the investor's lifecycle that shifts from a saving strategy (accumulation) to a spending strategy (decumulation), with the turning point at the target date.In this research paper we outline the basic principles of TDFs design and management. We also provide insights into how they help deliver good customer outcomes and a simplified and intuitive approach to investing; both from investment theory and behavioural science perspectives