Self-invested pension options: A dig beneath the headlines

'Freedom of self-investment means very different things in practice'

clock • 4 min read

Self-investment opportunities are the gems of the pension world but the type of pension scheme used can really matter, writes Alan Godbeer

The concept of self-investment within a pension scheme is something we as an industry can sometimes take for granted nowadays, but it is useful to remind ourselves that there was a time when committing contributions to pensions meant tying them up for years and years, only then for them to form part of a lump sum that would be touted around the market to find the best annuity rate available, one which hopefully didn't just disappear in a puff of smoke should you be unfortunate to die soon after retirement. Thankfully we have come a long way since then. Generous tax breaks on the way in 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 Pensions

Pension adequacy – are we focusing on the wrong measure of success?

Pension adequacy – are we focusing on the wrong measure of success?

'The current system can unintentionally create a false sense of reassurance'

Caitlin Southall
clock 24 July 2026 • 4 min read
Transfer changes 'a start, not the finish line', pensions industry says

Transfer changes 'a start, not the finish line', pensions industry says

Clear and practical guidance ‘essential’ to apply the new framework consistently and with confidence

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 23 July 2026 • 4 min read
Financial Vulnerability Taskforce calls on advisers to rethink retirement planning

Financial Vulnerability Taskforce calls on advisers to rethink retirement planning

Publishes guide suggesting to ‘move beyond a pensions-only approach’

Sophia Panayi
clock 22 July 2026 • 2 min read