Warning UK could be bypassed after ECJ ruling

clock

Insurers based outside the EU could undercut UK providers forced to use unisex annuity pricing by setting up QROPS, an expert says.

The ECJ outlawed gender-based insurance pricing on the grounds of discrimination on 1 March. It is expected men's annuities, which are typically higher due to shorter longevity, will be slashed by providers in response. Ken Wrench, chief executive of London & Colonial, says the ruling places providers under the ECJ's jurisdiction in greater competition with non-EU insurers. "Some enterprising non-EU insurer could in theory establish a very simple qualifying recognised overseas pension scheme (QROPS), where the money goes into the scheme in another country, then turns into an annuity a...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on uncategorised

Building Society-owned Newcastle Financial Advisers acquires Openwork firm

First of a number of acquisitions

Hannah Godfrey
clock 09 December 2019 • 1 min read

Bond managers fear hedges being undermined as liquidity dries up

The recent sell off in the bond market and growing liquidity issues have forced bond investors to use similar hedging techniques, undermining their effectiveness and causing concerns about how much downside protection funds really have.

Anna Fedorova
clock 03 July 2013 •

Police launch investigation into mortgage middleman fined £1m

West Midlands Police have launched a fraud investigation into a Birmingham financier over his role in sale and rent back agreements.

clock 25 June 2013 •