Overview
CEM Benchmarking is a global benchmarking and data insights firm established in 1991. It specialises in providing objective benchmarking services and analysis for institutional investors and pension plan sponsors. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, CEM works with hundreds of fund sponsors worldwide to help them manage costs and optimise investment and pension administration performance.
CEM’s core purpose is to enable long-term asset owners and fiduciaries to compare their performance, costs and operations against peers, supporting informed decision-making and rigorous evaluation of value for money.
Mission and focus areas
CEM Benchmarking aims to deliver independent, high-quality benchmarking data and insights that support improved outcomes in investment performance and pension administration efficiency. Its services focus on measuring and comparing cost, risk, performance and operational metrics to help clients identify performance gaps and areas for improvement.
The organisation contributes to enhanced industry standards by promoting transparency, rigorous cost evaluation and best practice sharing. Research outputs such as the Global Pension Transparency Benchmark reflect CEM’s alignment with broader transparency and sustainability goals, encouraging better disclosure practices among funds.
Structure and governance
CEM Benchmarking operates as a privately held company with a leadership team that includes a Chief Executive Officer and senior directors responsible for business development and client coverage. Its governance framework emphasises data integrity, confidentiality and independence; the firm does not manage assets or serve as an investment manager.
The organisation collaborates with a global network of pension practitioners and clients, sharing industry insights and research to strengthen benchmarking methodologies.
Programs and offerings
CEM provides a range of benchmarking services, including Investment Benchmarking, Pension Administration Benchmarking, Defined Contribution Benchmarking, Global Leaders Investment Benchmarking and Transparency Benchmarking.
These programmes are supported by extensive proprietary databases covering hundreds of funds and trillions in assets, enabling tailored comparisons and detailed reports. CEM also produces original research, analytical tools such as the CEM Dashboard, and insights used by clients in reporting and strategic planning.
