(13)Article 32(1), point (k), of Directive (EU) 2019/2034, enables investment firms that do not issue any of the instruments referred to in Article 32(1), point (j), of that Directive, to use alternative arrangements, provided that the competent authority approves such use and provided that such arrangements fulfil the same objectives as the instruments referred to in Article 32(1), point (j), of that Directive. To fulfil the same objectives, such alternative arrangements should thus ensure that the variable remuneration awarded is subject to implicit risk adjustments. The value of such alternative arrangements should thus decrease whenever there is an adverse effect on the performance of the investment firm concerned or the assets it manages. Furthermore, where the investment firm is subject to the requirement to defer variable remuneration under Article 32(1), point (l), of Directive (EU) 2019/2034, the alternative arrangements should also be consistent with the requirement to defer variable remuneration, and with the application of malus or clawback arrangements and retention periods to variable remuneration paid in instruments.