Düsseldorf, April 15, 2026 Investor moves from pension insurance to ETF savings plan

A German investor canceled a long-term private pension insurance plan after 15 years of minimal returns and switched to an ETF savings plan in August 2025, seeking better long-term growth.

Disappointing Returns from Pension Insurance

The investor had initially signed up for a private pension insurance plan based on stock funds in 2008, expecting steady growth over time. However, after contributing more than 20,000 euros over 15 years, the plan yielded only a 1,000-euro gain—a return far below expectations.

Frustrated by the poor performance, the investor decided to terminate the pension insurance and explore alternative investment options. The move highlights growing skepticism about traditional pension products, particularly those tied to volatile stock funds without guaranteed returns.

Transition to ETF Savings Plan

Seeking a more reliable and potentially profitable alternative, the investor opted for an ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) savings plan. ETFs were chosen for their combination of relative security and the promise of higher returns, provided the investment horizon spans at least a decade.

The investor launched the ETF savings plan in August 2025, marking a shift toward self-directed retirement planning. Unlike the previous pension insurance, ETFs offer greater transparency, lower fees, and the flexibility to adjust investments based on market conditions.