The Q3 2024 Confluence Plan Universe Report is a detailed analysis of the performance of defined benefit plans, highlighting a robust quarter despite market volatility. The report indicates that defined benefit plans achieved a median return of 5.51%, marking an increase of more than 4% compared to the previous quarter. U.S. equity markets played a significant role in this performance, with a median return of 6.29% for defined benefit plans. The report also outlines the performance of corporate plans, which returned 6.41% at a median level, outperforming other plan types. Furthermore, the report documents the allocation trends among various plan types, noting that corporate plans maintain a significant allocation to fixed income. It also discusses the shifts in allocations to U.S. equity and alternatives across different plan types. The data presented is sourced from over 4,000 institutions, providing a comprehensive view of the defined benefit landscape.