pensions

A majority of UK pension schemes have fewer than 11 members despite recent efforts to incentivise long-term savings, says Steve Bee after reading Opra's latest figures.

Proposals for a European Directive forcing insurance companies to offer similar contract rates to men and women could tip more pensioners into poverty says the Pensions Policy Institute.

Pending pensions legislation set out in the Finance Bill could open up a 'loophole' for employers wishing to minimise the amount of money they pay in corporate tax, believes A J Bell.

Changes to pending pensions legislation set out in the Finance Bill will see many people delay their retirement date until after A-day, predicts actuary A J Bell.

The Pensions Policy Institute says research into commonly available equity release schemes shows consumers should not bank on their homes to bail them out of poverty in retirement because of the poor rates of return offered.

IFAs are heading towards a brighter future, suggests Steve Bee, head of pensions strategy at Scottish Life, as pension changes will give rise to plenty of advice opportunities.

IFAs could soon face tough old competition if Virgin Money has its way.

The Occupational Pension Schemes Regulatory Authority has published its new guidelines for trustees in the hope the rules will help people make the right decisions when dealing with underfunded defined benefit schemes.

Relatives of those dead for more than two years ahead of A-day could see the deceased's death benefits subject to a 40% tax charge, says Steve Bee, Scottish Life head of pensions strategy.

A way to avoid IHT has been spotted by Abbey for Intermediaries in proposals for Alternatively Secured Pension rules within the Pensions Bill currently winding its way through Parliament.