Adviser Newsnotes

Market gains are giving retirees a surprising boost. Even with softer annuity rates, the strong investment returns since 2025 are allowing clients to secure higher levels of guaranteed income than expected. In our latest adviser note, we unpack how accumulated capital and prevailing rates interact and why this matters.

Our latest CEO newsnote provides guidance for pensioners amid stern warnings from major financial CEOs about a potential market crash. It highlights options for securing guaranteed income and protecting investments from market volatility.

With-profit life annuities benefit from a run of good balanced fund returns in two ways: strong prospects for good increases from 2026 onwards, and more available funds to secure a higher guaranteed income for retirement, making it a compelling time to consider Just Lifetime Income.

We've introduced a new 7-year level initial period option for Just Lifetime Income (JuLI), enhancing income stability and flexibility for retirees. This feature allows clients to receive a higher starting income that remains fixed for seven years before adjusting according to investment performance and selected increase options.

Amidst the massive turmoil in local and global investment markets in the last week, there is good news for pensioners: life annuity rates are up 11% this year. Current conditions provide a good opportunity for retirees to secure income guaranteed for life which is sufficient to cover thier essential expenditure.

Guaranteed life annuities are still offering good value for money, despite the recent reduction in annuity rates. The income a retiree can secure is what really matters. Starting income is determined by the combination of the market value of retirement savings and the annuity rate at any point in time, not the annuity rate alone.