Retirement planning is a crucial aspect of financial well-being, and the Cytonn Umbrella Retirement Benefits Scheme (CURBS) stands out as a dynamic solution that caters to both employers and employees in Kenya. Registered by the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) and offered by Cytonn Asset Managers Limited (CAML), CURBS provides a practical and flexible option for organizations looking to empower their workforce with secure retirement benefits.
For employers, joining CURBS offers significant advantages. Rather than setting up and managing their own occupational retirement benefit schemes, which can be costly and time-consuming, employers can plug into CURBS, an existing and well-governed scheme. This enables them to motivate their employees with the promise of attractive retirement benefits without incurring the administrative burden of running a standalone fund. By participating in CURBS, employers share the operational costs with a pool of other employers, making it an affordable and efficient option for businesses of all sizes.
Employees, on the other hand, gain access to a suite of benefits that go beyond simple retirement savings. One of the standout features is the potential for higher returns on pension saving, driven by CAML’s active management approach. Employees also enjoy tax exemptions on their contributions, helping to maximize their long-term wealth accumulation. In addition, CURBS provides flexible options for home ownership, allowing up to 60.0% of pension contributions to be used as collateral for a mortgage and 40.0% for direct home purchases, a significant advantage in an economy where housing affordability is a major concern. The scheme also offers employees free life cover, ensuring that their loved ones are protected in the event of their untimely demise. Regular training sessions further strengthen members’ financial literacy, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make the most of their pension savings and secure a comfortable retirement.
In 2024, CURBS achieved a net return rate of 18.8%, underscoring its ability to deliver competitive returns against industry averages. With a proven governance structure, CURBS provides a reliable foundation for retirement planning that supports both employers’ obligations and employees’ aspirations. For organizations seeking to support their teams while keeping operational costs manageable and opting out of NSSF Tier 2, CURBS offers a practical, high-impact solution. And for employees looking to secure a brighter, more financially secure future, it offers the flexibility and growth potential needed to turn retirement dreams into reality.
