Reduce service fees on MPF products, watchdog urges

It is time for providers of involuntary pension programmes to cut down their service charges, the consumer watchdog reiterated on Wednesday.

“Given the increased use of electronic services, which has effectively lowered administrative costs, it is time service providers consider lowering the costs they charge for MPF products,” said Consumer Council chairwoman Connie Lau Yin-hing, speaking on a radio programme.

The Mandatory Provident Fund came under attention this week after Monday’s release of a council report highlighting their high charges and poor returns on investments.

The report said the management fees of some MPF are 26 times higher than others.

Lau said one idea to consider is linking administrative charges to a fund’s performance in the market.

She advised investors to avoid swapping fund providers out of a “herd instinct” after the rules are changed next month, allowing employees to choose their fund provider.