Pensions Outlook: Legislative Updates, Economic Trends, and Key Events Shaping Public Retirement Systems
Staying ahead of economic shifts, policy changes, and market movements is crucial for public pension funds, institutional investors, and retirement professionals. This week’s Pensions Outlook covers key legislative updates, including a Texas House committee hearing and the latest TEXPERS 89th TxLege Bill Tracker, along with new Census data on metro growth and a look at the private lending boom reshaping investment strategies. We also explore managing emotions in high-stakes environments and highlight must-attend industry events, including the TEXPERS 2025 Annual Conference with training and networking opportunities for pension leaders.
TEXPERS 2025 Annual Conference – Essential Education for Pension Trustees
The Story
The TEXPERS 2025 Annual Conference, presented by Dimensional Fund Advisors, is set for March 31 – April 2, 2025, in Austin, TX. This premier gathering brings together trustees, administrators, investment professionals, and policy experts to discuss critical issues impacting Texas' public employee retirement systems. The conference offers expert-led panels, networking opportunities, and essential training sessions designed to help pension fund stakeholders navigate the evolving financial and policy landscape.
Register for the Annual Conference
Need a Hotel Room?
If you’re having trouble finding accommodations at the conference venue, The Renaissance Austin Hotel, consider staying at The Domain, a retail and residential center just five minutes away, which offers boutique hotel options like Archer, Westin, and Aloft.
Non-Ticketed Events – Open to All Annual Conference Attendees:
- TEXPERS 2025 Annual Conference Welcome Reception - Taking place on Sunday, March 30, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., this kickoff networking event will be held in the Grand Ballroom Foyer of the conference venue. Attendees can pick up their conference registration badges from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and enjoy an evening of networking and hors d'oeuvres. Your Annual Conference attendee badge is your only ticket!
- TEXPERS All-Members Networking Event – Luck & Laughter: A TEXPERS Casino Night Extravaganza: Taking place on Monday, March 31, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., this exclusive networking event will be held in the Rio Grande Hall on the Plaza lower level of the conference venue. Attendees can enjoy casino tables, great food, networking opportunities, and a chance to win prizes. The only entry requirement is your Annual Conference registration badge—no extra ticket is needed!
Separate Ticketed Events:
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TEXPERS Annual Memorial Golf Tournament
Join us for the TEXPERS Annual Memorial Golf Tournament, a pre-ticketed event offering a great morning of golf and networking at Avery Ranch Golf Club, an off-site venue. Only 12 spots remain!When: Sunday, March 30
Time: 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. (8 a.m. shotgun start)
Location: Avery Ranch Golf Club, 10500 Avery Club Drive
Format: Scramble – bogey max, two-putt maxTransportation: Not provided. Attendees can coordinate carpooling using the Whova app.
Reminder: This event requires advance registration—only pre-ticketed participants may play. To register, email [email protected].
- The Hat Affair: A Brunch Extravaganza - Taking place on Sunday, March 30, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., this special social and networking event features a brunch, custom hat bar, and live entertainment—a great way to connect with fellow conference attendees in a relaxed and festive setting. Register for The Hat Affair
- Basic Trustee Training (Pre-Conference Event) - Held on Saturday, March 29, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., this pre-conference training session provides new trustees with a strong foundation in fiduciary duty, pension governance, and investment principles to equip them for their roles. Register for Basic Trustee Training
- Advanced Trustee Training (Pre-Conference Event) - This specialized session is designed for experienced trustees and is scheduled for Saturday, March 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It offers deeper insights into investment strategies, risk management, and policy trends affecting pension governance. Register for Advanced Trustee Training
Texas House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee Hearing
The Story
The Texas House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services (PIFS) Committee is holding a hearing on March 17, 2025, at 10 a.m. in Room E2.030 of the Texas Capitol. The committee will discuss key legislative matters related to public pensions, investment policies, and financial regulations that impact Texas retirement systems and financial markets.
Why It Matters
Legislation affecting public pension governance, investments, and fiduciary responsibilities often begins in committee hearings like this. Texas pension trustees, administrators, and stakeholders should monitor this session to stay informed on potential policy changes that could impact retirement security and pension fund management.
TEXPERS' 89th TxLege Bill Tracker – Stay Updated on Pension-Related Legislation
The Story
TEXPERS has posted its 89th TxLege Bill Tracker, providing members with the latest updates on pension-related and relevant legislative proposals in the Texas Legislature. Members can access the tracker by logging into the Association's membership portal, ensuring they stay informed on key bills that could impact public retirement systems.
View the Bill Tracker (Member Login may be Required)
Why It Matters
Texas public pension trustees, administrators, and stakeholders should stay engaged with legislative developments affecting retirement system governance, funding, and investment policies. This bill tracker provides a critical resource for staying ahead of legislative actions and advocating for policies that protect the financial security of public employees.
New Census Data Highlights Population Growth in Key Texas Metro Areas
The Story
The U.S. Census Bureau has released new population estimates for counties, metro, and micro areas, providing updated insights into demographic shifts across the country. The latest data reveals continued population growth in major Texas metropolitan areas, driven by strong economic conditions, job opportunities, and migration trends.
Why It Matters
Population trends impact public retirement systems in multiple ways, from state and local workforce shifts to changing tax bases and funding considerations. As Texas metros expand, pension funds and institutional investors must assess how demographic shifts influence public finance policies, labor markets, and long-term economic growth.
The Private Lending Boom and Its Impact on Investors
The Story
A new episode of Reuters' The Big View podcast examines the private lending boom, exploring how non-bank lenders are increasingly filling gaps left by traditional financial institutions. As banks face regulatory pressures and rising capital requirements, private credit markets are emerging as a significant force in corporate financing. The discussion highlights key players, risks, and potential rewards for investors engaging in this rapidly growing asset class.
Why It Matters
Public pension funds seek diversification and yield, and capital is increasingly allocated to private credit markets. However, with the expansion of non-bank lending comes higher risk exposure and liquidity concerns. Pension fund trustees must carefully evaluate due diligence, risk management strategies, and the regulatory landscape when considering private lending as part of their investment portfolio.
Managing Anger at Work: The Power of Controlling Emotional Flow
The Story
A new article from The Conversation explores how anger functions like water flowing through a hose—it can be turned up, directed, or restrained based on the situation. While anger is often viewed negatively, it can be a valuable tool for motivation, boundary-setting, and advocacy when managed correctly.
Why It Matters
For Texas public pension stakeholders, the legislative session often feels like a firehose of emotions—with intense debates, policy fights, and high-stakes decisions. Knowing when to turn up the pressure to advocate for pension stability and when to dial it back to maintain strategic influence is key to navigating legislative negotiations.
Texas Public Finance Conference – An Event for Institutional Investors
The Story
The Bond Buyer is hosting the Texas Public Finance Conference from April 9–11, 2025, at the Austin Marriott Downtown in Austin, TX. This premier event will feature three powerhouse keynote speakers:
- Chris Hollins, Controller, City of Houston
- Christi Craddick, Chairman, Texas Railroad Commission
- Glenn Hegar, Comptroller, State of Texas
These influential voices will provide exclusive insights into fiscal policy, infrastructure investment, regulatory shifts, and other critical forces shaping Texas' financial and economic landscape. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on key issues impacting public finance, municipal markets, and institutional investments.
Why It Matters
Understanding Texas' evolving fiscal and regulatory environment is crucial for public pension funds and institutional investors. With major decision-makers offering firsthand insights, this event provides an opportunity to stay informed on policies and market conditions that could impact public retirement systems and investment strategies.