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Performance Evaluations of Defined Contribution Plans by Regulators

Author

Listed:
  • James Kavourakis
  • George Tanewski

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of public evaluations of superannuation plan performance by regulators. We find evidence that members switch capital away from plans receiving failing evaluations, with the ratio of net benefit flows to plan assets declining by 9 percentage points ($272 million based on the average plan). The effect concentrates in plans with more passive members and in Industry and Retail plans, where members arguably have fewer barriers to exit. There is minimal evidence that member returns are improved by switching. This study provides evidence consistent with behavioural justifications for the regulators' intervention in the superannuation industry.

Suggested Citation

  • James Kavourakis & George Tanewski, 2026. "Performance Evaluations of Defined Contribution Plans by Regulators," Accounting and Finance, Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand, vol. 66(2), pages 1145-1165, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:acctfi:v:66:y:2026:i:2:p:1145-1165
    DOI: 10.1111/acfi.70161
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    References listed on IDEAS

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