pensions

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.

The Association of British Insurers has accused journalists of conducting "financial terrorism", and says the insurance industry has been unfairly blamed for the current lack of confidence in the long-term savings industry.

Employers searching for advisers on behalf of staff should look to the personality factor as much as the CV when deciding who to use, says the Association of IFAs.

Chief executive of Zurich Financial Services Lawrence Churchill is to become the first chairman of the Pensions Protection Fund, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Andrew Smith MP revealed last week.

The Department for Work and Pensions has just released details of a proposed amendment to the Pensions Bill, which would provide £400m over 20 years to workers of companies that went bust and left them without pension savings.