Pensions

Almost half of those approaching retirement are not aware of a free government service launched to help them understand the pension 'freedoms' announced at last year's Budget, according to a poll of 1,000 people.

Controversial proposals to allow existing pensioners to sell their annuities for cash - and insurers to compete for the contracts - are to be discussed by ministers this week ahead of the 18 March Budget, according to reports.

Increased consumer choice under pensions freedom coupled with greater potential fraud risk has boosted the argument for a single pensions regulator, MPs have said.

Legacy tech 'can't or won't cope' with pensions freedom

A drawdown charge cap should be placed on sales to provider's existing customers to ensure people are not sold inappropriate products after pensions freedom comes into effect, Which? has said.

Standard Life will scrap charges linked to its flexible drawdown product in readiness for pensions freedom from 6 April.

Retirement Planner is hosting its third breakfast briefing on 26 March looking at the options and opportunities pensions freedom presents for advisers.

Aviva has said it expects its acquisition of rival Friends Life to generate extra revenue of £600m over the next two years, including and cost savings for the company of £225m.

Aegon has launched a dedicated website and interactive tool to assist advisers working with clients on pensions flexibility.

HSBC Global Asset Management has introduced a range of multi-asset retirement funds for the defined contribution (DC) pension marketplace.