Many countries in Asia-Pacific face tremendous demographic challenges. Combined with the inadequacy of existing pension systems, this has led to a wave of sweeping reforms in the past few years. A recent study by Allianz Global Investors examined pension reform trends and market consequences in nine Asian-Pacific countries.

Asia has not been spared from the almost global trend of ageing populations. While fertility decreased dramatically following industrialisation, longevity increased considerably. Japan may already be the oldest society in the world, and it will continue to age rapidly.