A new service has been launched to make it easier for advisers and their clients to search and apply for an annuity.

Aviva Investors has unveiled a defined returns fund offering a return of 8% for each year the plan is open.

Enhanced annuity sales have continued to grow in early 2009, and further expansion is expected, says Watson Wyatt.

UK domiciled funds grew by £25bn last month, according to the Investment Management Association.

I recently had an email from Personal Accounts Delivery Authority (PADA). It was a response to all participants in the consultation on retirement income options for personal accounts members, and had been sent to all those who submitted a response.

FundsNetwork will be consulting with fund providers in the next few weeks on a comprehensive review of its services, which could include introducing a charge for corporate actions such as fund closures.

Advice on retirement planning was the most popular request on Unbiased.co.uk in the first three months of 2009, as consumers continue to worry about how the credit crunch will affect their pensions.

The Bank of England's deputy Governor has raised the prospect of imposing an effective tax on Britain's banks to help shoulder the cost of the financial bail-outs, reports The Telegraph .

The FSA today arrested five men and one woman, aged between 27 and 34, in connection with an ongoing investigation into suspected organised insider dealing.

The FTSE 100 has fallen sharply this morning following a strong dive on Wall Street last night, dropping 41.20 points or 0.93% to 4375.03 by 8:30am.