Because of their size, Dutch pension funds are of great importance to the international financial markets. The total value of Dutch pension assets is close to 500 bln (2004). Dutch pension funds have recently been the focus of public attention. The ageing of the population and volatile investment results (in terms of surpluses and shortfalls) have contributed to this.

Maatman explains the legal relationships between the pension fund and its economic stakeholders. He describes the organisational structures through which the pension contract is implemented and makes clear what the stakeholders may expect from the pension fund as an asset manager. He focuses in particular on the pension fund as a fiduciary, a concept which has its origin in Roman law and which is particularly developed in Anglo-American trust law. It is also recognised in Dutch law.

Maatman demonstrates great knowledge of the pension fund industry, and discusses many key issues very authoritatively. His work is of great importance to legal scholars and practitioners, both in the Netherlands and abroad.