The CPP Investment Board was established by an Act of Parliament in December 1997.
We are accountable to Parliament and to federal and provincial ministers who serve as the CPP stewards. However, we are governed and managed independently from the CPP itself, and operate at arm’s length from governments.
We take our responsibility to Canadians very seriously and operate with a clear mandate – to maximize returns without undue risk of loss.
Our detailed mandate and objectives
Our mandate is set out in legislation. It states that:
- We invest in the best interests of CPP contributors and beneficiaries.
- We have a singular objective: to maximize long-term investment returns without undue risk, taking into account the factors that may affect the funding of the Canada Pension Plan and its ability to meet its financial obligations.
- We provide cash management services to the Canada Pension Plan so that they can pay benefits.
Our unique structure
The CPP Investments mandate is based on a governance structure that distinguishes us from a sovereign wealth fund. We have an investment-only mandate, unencumbered by political agendas and insulated from political interference in investment decision-making. Our management reports to an independent Board of Directors.
In carrying out our mandate, we aim to continually develop, execute and enhance the investment strategy that balances prospective risk and reward in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of the CPP Fund.