Mark Polson: You knew I was a snake when you picked me up

You knew I was a snake when you picked me up

clock

A relatively genteel war of words - a war-ette, if you like - is bubbling about who should provide at-retirement guidance for the poor, hapless schmooks who reach their third age under Gideon's new pension regime, writes Mark Polson.

On the one hand, you've got bodies such as the publicly-funded TPAS, who argue that they have a track record of a) knowing their stuff, b) delivering unbiased information and c) doing a lot with a little. On the other you've got providers - not all, but a few - who argue that they a) have more information on the client, b) have got servicing scale and capacity to deliver and c) promise not to do any selling. So how do we make concord of this discord? I think it's pretty easy, and it has to do with the old woman and the snake. In case you're unfamiliar, the old woman finds a half-dead ...

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

British Steel a stark reminder of obligations around client files

British Steel a stark reminder of obligations around client files

Lawyer Philippa Hann reflects on her work around the pensions case

Hope Coumbe
clock 27 March 2024 • 2 min read
SSAS and the general levy: A victory for common sense

SSAS and the general levy: A victory for common sense

The value of SSASs after general levy consultation outcome

Caitlin Southall
clock 26 March 2024 • 5 min read
Pension dashboard operators join forces to push project forward

Pension dashboard operators join forces to push project forward

Coalition aims to bring 'dashboards to consumers as early as possible'

Jasmine Urquhart
clock 25 March 2024 • 2 min read