Nasfund Hosts CEO Business Breakfast and Nationwide Employer Conferences

The National Superannuation Fund this week hosted its CEO’s Business Breakfast in Port Moresby, bringing together captains of industry to discuss the broader impact of superannuation on everyday Papua New Guineans. Chairman Christopher Elphick led the discussion, emphasizing that superannuation is more than a statutory requirement - it is a cornerstone of long‑term financial security, dignity, and resilience for working families.

Mr Elphick highlighted the Fund’s strong 2025 performance, including a Net Profit After Tax of K1.08 billion, a Net Asset Value exceeding K9.45 billion, and a 13% interest crediting rate. As a result, more than K1 billion was credited to members’ accounts - the largest distribution in Nasfund’s history.

He stressed that these outcomes are possible through collaboration between employers, payroll and HR teams, regulators such as the Bank of Papua New Guinea, and the Fund's cost management and investment strategy . Accurate payroll data, timely contribution remittances, and strong compliance were identified as critical to delivering real retirement outcomes for members. Mr Elphick also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to responsible stewardship, strengthened governance, and active engagement with employers nationwide.

Chief Executive Officer Rajeev Sharma followed with a detailed presentation of the audited results and called on employers to take a more active role in shaping retirement outcomes for their employees. He encouraged employers to consider increasing contributions above the statutory 8.4%, recommending a target of at least 10% to better align with Pacific benchmarks and deliver meaningful long‑term benefits for staff.

Mr Sharma also highlighted the gender gap in retirement savings, noting that women make up 26% of Nasfund’s membership but hold only 28% of total balances. He urged employers to support female employees during unpaid maternity leave as Nasfund does for its own staff - to reduce long‑term disparities and help women retire with greater security.

“Employers have the power to directly improve the lives of their staff by going beyond the statutory minimum,” Mr Sharma said. “Every additional percentage point is a long‑term investment in dignity and comfort for employees in retirement.”

“Supporting women during maternity leave and ensuring timely contributions are not just compliance measures - they are commitments to fairness, inclusion, and the future of our workforce.”

Following the Business Breakfast, the program continued with Nasfund’s Employer Conference Series, delivered across Port Moresby, Mt Hagen, Kokopo, and Lae. This marked the first time the conference featured presenters engaging simultaneously across multiple locations.

Chairman Elphick again addressed participants, specifically acknowledging payroll and HR professionals for their critical role in keeping the superannuation system running smoothly. He outlined the Board’s three‑year focus on simplifying processes, improving digital tools, and strengthening employer support to reduce errors and resolve issues faster.

Mr Sharma also spoke directly to employers on the importance of addressing items highlighted in the Employer Default Summary, noting that delayed contributions reduce members’ interest earnings. He reinforced the need for timely compliance and encouraged employers to partner with Nasfund in promoting superannuation literacy, including education on compound interest, inflation, and the benefits of starting early.

The events reinforced Nasfund’s commitment to working closely with employers to strengthen superannuation outcomes and build long‑term financial security for members across Papua New Guinea.

                  Image: Chairman Christopher Elphick giving his opening remarks at the Port Moresby Audience.

                  Image: CEO Rajeev Sharma, presenting the 2025 Financial Highlights to the employer representatives in Port Moresby