DEVK-kysely: Pakollinen yrityseläke jakaa mielipiteitä

KölEstablished insurer DEVK Versicherungen has released findings from a recent survey regarding the proposed mandatory company pension scheme in Germany. The survey indicates that nearly half of the country's employed individuals support the idea of a compulsory retirement provision, a topic currently under intense debate as part of pension reforms.

The company pension system (betriebliche Altersvorsorge, bAV) is gaining attention as lawmakers consider ways to address potential retirement income gaps. While some advocate for a mandatory system, others, including employer associations, express concerns about potential burdens on businesses. The survey by opinion research firm Civey, conducted in June 2026 with 2,500 employed individuals, aimed to gauge public sentiment on these proposals.

Results show a divided opinion: 48 percent of respondents favor a mandatory company pension to safeguard against poverty in old age. However, 39 percent oppose such a requirement, with 13 percent remaining undecided. Critics point to the uneven distribution of current company pension benefits, with access significantly lower in small businesses compared to large corporations.

Despite reservations about mandatory schemes, a considerable portion of workers expressed willingness to contribute to their retirement savings. Approximately 28 percent stated they would contribute €50 to €100 monthly from their gross income, and 20 percent considered contributing up to €200. Only 13 percent were prepared to invest more than €200 per month. The survey also highlighted that 16 percent of respondents do not desire any additional company-sponsored retirement savings.

DEVK Pensionsfonds-AG, a subsidiary of DEVK Versicherungen, is a significant player in the German pension fund market, particularly noting its extensive partnership with Deutsche Bahn. The company emphasizes the legal framework allowing employees to convert part of their gross salary into pension contributions, which are tax and social security-free. Additionally, employers are mandated to provide a contribution, typically 15 percent of the converted amount, enhancing the financial appeal of these plans.