Russia risk to Falkirk Council's pension fund is 'miniscule'

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The risk of exposure to Russian investments for Falkirk Council's pension fund is "miniscule", members have been assured.Falkirk Council's pensions committee were told on Thursday that the Fund does not have any direct investments in Russian companies.

In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, tough financial sanctions were put in place by the USA, the UK and the European Union.

Since then, the Fund has been given assurances by its investment managers that they are taking the necessary action to minimise the financial risk to the fund and to comply with the legal restrictions introduced by sanctions.Chief finance officer Bryan Smail told members: "Committee and board can take comfort that there is not a significant exposure."Falkirk Live brings you the latest headlines from Falkirk and beyond.But did you know all the ways you can stay informed with us?We share live news and exclusive scoops every day so make sure you're following us so we can keep you informed on all things Falkirk!"We have no direct holdings - there are tiny holdings in indices but these have either been written down as worthless or the companies concerned - because of the collapse of their value - drop out the index anyway.""There was previously a small holding in Russian bonds by Baillie Gifford but anticipating the direction of travel and risk exposure these were sold in January."Mr Smail added that they were keeping a close eye on the position with China and there is a recognition that would be very different in terms of investment exposure.However, in his report, he also warned that the turmoil created by the invasion, particularly in the energy market, could lead to a global recession at a time when economies are already grappling with covid,