Lipper, the Thompson Reuters company, last week announced that a relatively new fund concept to the retail investment market has quickly become one of the most popular over recent months. Emerging Market Debt funds dethroned Corporate Bond funds as the most popular type of fixed income fund available, Corporate Bonds having held the top spot for the majority of 2009. Lipper's monthly figures for November revealed that total sales of approximately euro 28 billion were split between equity and fixed income-focussed assets, although it was Emerging Market Debt funds that stole the lions share of the latter.
Put simply, Emerging Market Debt funds (also referred to as "Emerging Market Bond" funds) can be considered as fixed interest funds with a geographic focus specific to one of the world's many emerging economies. Such funds vary in their specific mandate, although the majority hold assets in the form of local corporate bonds and/or local government gilts. Additionally, such assets are held in the local currency of the emerging market, so providing potential for returns on both bonds and currencies. This gives an element of hedging within a fund as bonds and currencies tend to react differently to changes in the economic cycle. In the year 2008, for example, many local bonds posted positive returns due to their favourable reaction to lower inflation, slower growth and central bank rate cuts, yet currencies struggled in the risk-averse environment.
The reason for the recent rise in popularity of such funds is best explained at a micro-economic level. The fall-out of the global economic crisis has meant that fewer banks have been willing to provide funding for corporate expenditure or in other words, loans. As a direct result of this, more and more corporations have been forced to raise funds through bond issues, issues which, owing to a drop in global investor sentiment, come with attractive returns. Likewise, many governments have also been forced to release attractive gilt issues in a bid to raise capital for economic expenditure, as a result of the usual income that they would normally collect by way of taxes, reducing. On the basis that emerging market economies are, as their name would suggest, the fastest growing, the ready-supply of opportunities for fund managers to invest is regularly replenished. It is these opportunities that Emerging Market Debt fund managers have been quick to seize upon. Furthermore, the likes of Asia, the Middle East and Latin America share similar characteristics in common with what many would regard as a "safe haven" economies: large trade surpluses, relatively small government debts, large export sectors and high domestic savings rates, providing firmer foundations for long-term growth.
Over the 16 years from 1993 to 30 November 2009, local emerging markets debt has returned 11.0% per annum to investors, yet with a volatility of only 9.4%. This compares to global emerging markets equities returning 6.1% with a volatility of 24.8% (source: JP Morgan/Investec Asset Management). It is no surprise therefore that the world's biggest fund managers are moving money into emerging market bonds, as they seek higher yields than the near zero interest rates of developed countries while trying to avoid volatility in other markets. A report by HSBC, released on Wednesday last week, shows the 13 largest global fund managers moved a large amount of money into high-yield or emerging market bonds during the third quarter of 2009. The fund managers, including names such as Allianz, Fidelity and Franklin Templeton, increased their emerging market bond holdings by an average of 19.4%.
"The low interest rate environment has diminished appetite for cash this quarter as investors seek stable growth in still volatile market conditions," HSBC's Australian head of global investments Charles Genocchio said. "Investors sought yield from bonds in a near zero interest environment, while selectively pursuing growth in equities in markets like Asia, which is emerging from the financial crisis faster."
Thursday 24 December 2009
Tuesday 22 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: RUSSIAN STOCKS IN FOCUS
The Organisation of Russian stocks, the world's best performing in 2009, may gain another 50% next year as commodity prices rise, fuelling a recovery from the country's worst financial crisis in a decade, Otkritie Financial Co. said. The dollar-measured RTS Index of 50 stocks, which has risen 125% this year to about 1,420, will probably reach 2,100 by the end of 2010, Vladimir Savov, head of research at Moscow-based Otkritie, said in a report. "Russia's domestic recovery has not been fully priced in yet, as evidence for it has been sparse," Savov said. This year's gains are due more to "external drivers" such as the growth in global money supply and higher commodity prices than gains in the domestic economy, he said. Russia is emerging from its first economic contraction in more than a decade after the price of Urals crude, its main export earner, more than doubled in a year. Standard & Poor's raised the country's outlook to stable from negative yesterday, saying the government may be able to achieve a narrower budget deficit than previously estimated. Companies from Russia are valued at 7.2 times projected 2010 earnings, less than half the 16.6 ratio for stocks in other emerging markets traced in the MSCI Index, according to Otkritie. The Russian multiple will rise if oil stays above USD 70 a barrel, according to the brokerage.
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: Spotlight on 'real asset' inflation hedging
During the recent, unprecedented times, governments worldwide have been called upon to utilise a range of financial and economic theories in a bid to alleviate the impact of what is now commonly referred to as a truly global recession. Whether packaged as 'Quantitative Easing' from the UK government, or the 'Troubled Asset Relief Programme' from the US, financial stimulus packages around the globe have been introduced to keep the flow and availability of finance constant. It is still far too early to gauge the success of such measures, however the Bank of England is currently revising its original suggestion that it will need "at least three months" to determine Quantitative Easing a success or not.
Whilst there is consensus that the need for such measures were absolutely necessary given the circumstances, history and many financial commentators point to a potential side-effect of introducing artificial financial injections to an economy; inflation. Inflation is a by-product of acceleration in economic growth of any market, brought about by sharp increases in the demand and subsequent price of local assets, goods and services. Such increases are particularly susceptible during times when interest rates are particularly low, given that more money is borrowed and spent as opposed to saved.
The Bank of England Chief Economist, Spencer Dale recently played down any risk of such a spike commenting "the BoE needed to be alert to the risk that quantitative easing could drive up asset prices but there is no evidence that is happening yet", although he went on to say that he felt that the local economy should expand "a little less rapidly" to avoid the possibility that quantitative easing might lead to an unwarranted increase in asset prices. Given that many of the world's economies have adopted similar measures to that of the UK (i.e. low interest rates and financial stimulus measures), the concerns of the BoE are shared globally.
Fundamental to the workings of most asset classes, inflation is something that fund managers cannot control, and as a result spend much of their time trying to predict. The reason for this is the intrinsic relationship between inflation and its effect on the 'true' value of any movement of an investment fund. If inflation is high or rising, assets held by fund managers will more likely be more difficult to attain and may deter from any added value that a fund manager creates, hence the reference to inflation as being a 'stealth tax' in investment management circles.
Many investors who share concerns for rising inflation revert to an investment practice that, in theory, is immune from the threat of inflation; inflation hedging. An inflation hedge is an asset that loses little value in periods of rising prices. Thus, it holds its value and its purchasing power during inflation. The types of instruments that fall into this category are often referred to as 'real assets', so-called owing to their intrinsic value, i.e. they have a value of their own and people value them for their direct or indirect usefulness, examples include gold, property, wheat, land etc. Real assets are the opposite to what many refer to as 'financial assets', which could be defined as something who's value is determined as a direct result of the fortunes of a related or un-related entity, e.g. stocks, shares, government gilts. The school of thought being that by definition, real assets have a value of their own, inflation does not erode their value. Thus, real assets are all considered to be inflation hedges.
There are a wealth of funds available that trade solely in 'real assets' and purposely avoid instruments that can be affected by the movement of inflation. It is for this reason that funds such as these are particularly well-regarded as being part of a diversified portfolio. The varied range of such funds is ever-changing, the most popular being commodity-focussed (e.g. precious metals, natural resources or agricultural), although there are some funds that will hold highly specialist assets such as fine art, fine wine or antiques.
Patrick Koupland of Castlestone Management, managers of the Hansard Aliquot Gold Bullion and Hansard Aliquot Agriculture fund commented "Many investors are looking to diversify their portfolios with exposure to gold and other commodities. Gold in particular can be used as a hedge against inflation, and with the recent global stimulus packages taking hold, a rise in inflation levels is widely considered as inevitable. However, this diversification cannot be achieved from a gold equities fund, which buys not the metal itself, but stocks in related companies such as gold mines. Direct exposure to such commodities is the only way to truly diversify. This has been proven over the past five years where gold bullion and precious metals have given a better return to investors than gold equity funds - and with less risk.
These assets are one of the best hedges against the devaluation of money while silver and platinum have the economic sensitivity to rise with the improving economy. A strong validation of this is the fact we have seen the Chinese, Indian and other governments piling in to gold and stockpiling other commodities."
Whilst there is consensus that the need for such measures were absolutely necessary given the circumstances, history and many financial commentators point to a potential side-effect of introducing artificial financial injections to an economy; inflation. Inflation is a by-product of acceleration in economic growth of any market, brought about by sharp increases in the demand and subsequent price of local assets, goods and services. Such increases are particularly susceptible during times when interest rates are particularly low, given that more money is borrowed and spent as opposed to saved.
The Bank of England Chief Economist, Spencer Dale recently played down any risk of such a spike commenting "the BoE needed to be alert to the risk that quantitative easing could drive up asset prices but there is no evidence that is happening yet", although he went on to say that he felt that the local economy should expand "a little less rapidly" to avoid the possibility that quantitative easing might lead to an unwarranted increase in asset prices. Given that many of the world's economies have adopted similar measures to that of the UK (i.e. low interest rates and financial stimulus measures), the concerns of the BoE are shared globally.
Fundamental to the workings of most asset classes, inflation is something that fund managers cannot control, and as a result spend much of their time trying to predict. The reason for this is the intrinsic relationship between inflation and its effect on the 'true' value of any movement of an investment fund. If inflation is high or rising, assets held by fund managers will more likely be more difficult to attain and may deter from any added value that a fund manager creates, hence the reference to inflation as being a 'stealth tax' in investment management circles.
Many investors who share concerns for rising inflation revert to an investment practice that, in theory, is immune from the threat of inflation; inflation hedging. An inflation hedge is an asset that loses little value in periods of rising prices. Thus, it holds its value and its purchasing power during inflation. The types of instruments that fall into this category are often referred to as 'real assets', so-called owing to their intrinsic value, i.e. they have a value of their own and people value them for their direct or indirect usefulness, examples include gold, property, wheat, land etc. Real assets are the opposite to what many refer to as 'financial assets', which could be defined as something who's value is determined as a direct result of the fortunes of a related or un-related entity, e.g. stocks, shares, government gilts. The school of thought being that by definition, real assets have a value of their own, inflation does not erode their value. Thus, real assets are all considered to be inflation hedges.
There are a wealth of funds available that trade solely in 'real assets' and purposely avoid instruments that can be affected by the movement of inflation. It is for this reason that funds such as these are particularly well-regarded as being part of a diversified portfolio. The varied range of such funds is ever-changing, the most popular being commodity-focussed (e.g. precious metals, natural resources or agricultural), although there are some funds that will hold highly specialist assets such as fine art, fine wine or antiques.
Patrick Koupland of Castlestone Management, managers of the Hansard Aliquot Gold Bullion and Hansard Aliquot Agriculture fund commented "Many investors are looking to diversify their portfolios with exposure to gold and other commodities. Gold in particular can be used as a hedge against inflation, and with the recent global stimulus packages taking hold, a rise in inflation levels is widely considered as inevitable. However, this diversification cannot be achieved from a gold equities fund, which buys not the metal itself, but stocks in related companies such as gold mines. Direct exposure to such commodities is the only way to truly diversify. This has been proven over the past five years where gold bullion and precious metals have given a better return to investors than gold equity funds - and with less risk.
These assets are one of the best hedges against the devaluation of money while silver and platinum have the economic sensitivity to rise with the improving economy. A strong validation of this is the fact we have seen the Chinese, Indian and other governments piling in to gold and stockpiling other commodities."
Friday 18 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: SPOT LIGHT ON CHINA
The recent announcement that Fidelity is to launch a China-focussed fund in March of next year would normally attract significant attention, China has been out-performing most other markets of late, and consensus appears that it will continue to do so for some time to come. What made the announcement even more note-worthy is the fact that the fund is to be managed by Anthony Bolton, the previous manager of arguably the UK's most successful investment fund; the Fidelity Special Situations fund.
Much light has been made of the fact that Mr Bolton has chosen to return to fund management, in-particular that he has chosen to spearhead Fidelity's charge into what he refers to as "the greatest investment opportunity of the next decade."
Until recently China has played a star role in many emerging market funds, more likely as part of a portfolio comprising other emerging markets such as Brazil and India. Only relatively recently have fund managers recognised the potential of the Chinese economy as an investment story in its own right, a number of China-centric funds have subsequently entered the market.
Many investors have benefited from the performance of such funds over the last 12 months, although it is very much the long-term appeal of China that has no doubt attracted seasoned managers such as Bolton, as he explains "Allocations to these markets are way too low. If I am right about the economic environment, a lot more money will come from investors in the developed world to the emerging world. The centre of gravity is shifting. If China becomes the world's second biggest economy, people just have to change the way they think about it."The result of China's ascendance as an economic superpower is that China and the US now make similar contributions to increases in world production. In fact, China has overtaken Germany to become the world's third-largest economy and some forecasts suggest that it will also overtake Japan, in GDP terms, in 2010 or 2011.
Of course, a major component of the China success story is an extremely strong reputation for quality of global exports and domestic consumption. China holds the top position in the world's car market, year to date. Even so, only 2% of the population actually own a car, compared to around 50% in the US and European Union. Additionally, with 600 million Chinese using mobile phones and 250 million accessing the internet, China is home to the world's largest and fastest growing telecoms market. Mindful of the dependency on exports, the Chinese government are making provision to ensure that policies are in place to encourage and sustain local, domestic consumption. Such proposals have been met with enthusiasm from the IMF who "supported the steps that China is taking to bolster private consumption as part of a comprehensive, well-sequenced strategy aimed at rebalancing China's growth model."
Much light has been made of the fact that Mr Bolton has chosen to return to fund management, in-particular that he has chosen to spearhead Fidelity's charge into what he refers to as "the greatest investment opportunity of the next decade."
Until recently China has played a star role in many emerging market funds, more likely as part of a portfolio comprising other emerging markets such as Brazil and India. Only relatively recently have fund managers recognised the potential of the Chinese economy as an investment story in its own right, a number of China-centric funds have subsequently entered the market.
Many investors have benefited from the performance of such funds over the last 12 months, although it is very much the long-term appeal of China that has no doubt attracted seasoned managers such as Bolton, as he explains "Allocations to these markets are way too low. If I am right about the economic environment, a lot more money will come from investors in the developed world to the emerging world. The centre of gravity is shifting. If China becomes the world's second biggest economy, people just have to change the way they think about it."The result of China's ascendance as an economic superpower is that China and the US now make similar contributions to increases in world production. In fact, China has overtaken Germany to become the world's third-largest economy and some forecasts suggest that it will also overtake Japan, in GDP terms, in 2010 or 2011.
Of course, a major component of the China success story is an extremely strong reputation for quality of global exports and domestic consumption. China holds the top position in the world's car market, year to date. Even so, only 2% of the population actually own a car, compared to around 50% in the US and European Union. Additionally, with 600 million Chinese using mobile phones and 250 million accessing the internet, China is home to the world's largest and fastest growing telecoms market. Mindful of the dependency on exports, the Chinese government are making provision to ensure that policies are in place to encourage and sustain local, domestic consumption. Such proposals have been met with enthusiasm from the IMF who "supported the steps that China is taking to bolster private consumption as part of a comprehensive, well-sequenced strategy aimed at rebalancing China's growth model."
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: Spotlight on 'real asset' inflation hedging
During the recent, unprecedented times, governments worldwide have been called upon to utilise a range of financial and economic theories in a bid to alleviate the impact of what is now commonly referred to as a truly global recession. Whether packaged as 'Quantitative Easing' from the UK government, or the 'Troubled Asset Relief Programme' from the US, financial stimulus packages around the globe have been introduced to keep the flow and availability of finance constant. It is still far too early to gauge the success of such measures, however the Bank of England is currently revising its original suggestion that it will need "at least three months" to determine Quantitative Easing a success or not.
Whilst there is consensus that the need for such measures were absolutely necessary given the circumstances, history and many financial commentators point to a potential side-effect of introducing artificial financial injections to an economy; inflation. Inflation is a by-product of acceleration in economic growth of any market, brought about by sharp increases in the demand and subsequent price of local assets, goods and services. Such increases are particularly susceptible during times when interest rates are particularly low, given that more money is borrowed and spent as opposed to saved.
The Bank of England Chief Economist, Spencer Dale recently played down any risk of such a spike commenting "the BoE needed to be alert to the risk that quantitative easing could drive up asset prices but there is no evidence that is happening yet", although he went on to say that he felt that the local economy should expand "a little less rapidly" to avoid the possibility that quantitative easing might lead to an unwarranted increase in asset prices. Given that many of the world's economies have adopted similar measures to that of the UK (i.e. low interest rates and financial stimulus measures), the concerns of the BoE are shared globally.
Fundamental to the workings of most asset classes, inflation is something that fund managers cannot control, and as a result spend much of their time trying to predict. The reason for this is the intrinsic relationship between inflation and its effect on the 'true' value of any movement of an investment fund. If inflation is high or rising, assets held by fund managers will more likely be more difficult to attain and may deter from any added value that a fund manager creates, hence the reference to inflation as being a 'stealth tax' in investment management circles.
Many investors who share concerns for rising inflation revert to an investment practice that, in theory, is immune from the threat of inflation; inflation hedging. An inflation hedge is an asset that loses little value in periods of rising prices. Thus, it holds its value and its purchasing power during inflation. The types of instruments that fall into this category are often referred to as 'real assets', so-called owing to their intrinsic value, i.e. they have a value of their own and people value them for their direct or indirect usefulness, examples include gold, property, wheat, land etc. Real assets are the opposite to what many refer to as 'financial assets', which could be defined as something who's value is determined as a direct result of the fortunes of a related or un-related entity, e.g. stocks, shares, government gilts. The school of thought being that by definition, real assets have a value of their own, inflation does not erode their value. Thus, real assets are all considered to be inflation hedges.
There are a wealth of funds available that trade solely in 'real assets' and purposely avoid instruments that can be affected by the movement of inflation. It is for this reason that funds such as these are particularly well-regarded as being part of a diversified portfolio. The varied range of such funds is ever-changing, the most popular being commodity-focussed (e.g. precious metals, natural resources or agricultural), although there are some funds that will hold highly specialist assets such as fine art, fine wine or antiques.
Patrick Koupland of Castlestone Management, managers of the Hansard Aliquot Gold Bullion and Hansard Aliquot Agriculture fund commented "Many investors are looking to diversify their portfolios with exposure to gold and other commodities. Gold in particular can be used as a hedge against inflation, and with the recent global stimulus packages taking hold, a rise in inflation levels is widely considered as inevitable. However, this diversification cannot be achieved from a gold equities fund, which buys not the metal itself, but stocks in related companies such as gold mines. Direct exposure to such commodities is the only way to truly diversify. This has been proven over the past five years where gold bullion and precious metals have given a better return to investors than gold equity funds - and with less risk.
These assets are one of the best hedges against the devaluation of money while silver and platinum have the economic sensitivity to rise with the improving economy. A strong validation of this is the fact we have seen the Chinese, Indian and other governments piling in to gold and stockpiling other commodities."
Hansard has a variety of fund links across a diverse range of asset classes, whether your clients have a conservative, balanced or adventurous outlook. To find out more about any of our fund links please contact your Hansard Account executive who will be able to assist you further.
Whilst there is consensus that the need for such measures were absolutely necessary given the circumstances, history and many financial commentators point to a potential side-effect of introducing artificial financial injections to an economy; inflation. Inflation is a by-product of acceleration in economic growth of any market, brought about by sharp increases in the demand and subsequent price of local assets, goods and services. Such increases are particularly susceptible during times when interest rates are particularly low, given that more money is borrowed and spent as opposed to saved.
The Bank of England Chief Economist, Spencer Dale recently played down any risk of such a spike commenting "the BoE needed to be alert to the risk that quantitative easing could drive up asset prices but there is no evidence that is happening yet", although he went on to say that he felt that the local economy should expand "a little less rapidly" to avoid the possibility that quantitative easing might lead to an unwarranted increase in asset prices. Given that many of the world's economies have adopted similar measures to that of the UK (i.e. low interest rates and financial stimulus measures), the concerns of the BoE are shared globally.
Fundamental to the workings of most asset classes, inflation is something that fund managers cannot control, and as a result spend much of their time trying to predict. The reason for this is the intrinsic relationship between inflation and its effect on the 'true' value of any movement of an investment fund. If inflation is high or rising, assets held by fund managers will more likely be more difficult to attain and may deter from any added value that a fund manager creates, hence the reference to inflation as being a 'stealth tax' in investment management circles.
Many investors who share concerns for rising inflation revert to an investment practice that, in theory, is immune from the threat of inflation; inflation hedging. An inflation hedge is an asset that loses little value in periods of rising prices. Thus, it holds its value and its purchasing power during inflation. The types of instruments that fall into this category are often referred to as 'real assets', so-called owing to their intrinsic value, i.e. they have a value of their own and people value them for their direct or indirect usefulness, examples include gold, property, wheat, land etc. Real assets are the opposite to what many refer to as 'financial assets', which could be defined as something who's value is determined as a direct result of the fortunes of a related or un-related entity, e.g. stocks, shares, government gilts. The school of thought being that by definition, real assets have a value of their own, inflation does not erode their value. Thus, real assets are all considered to be inflation hedges.
There are a wealth of funds available that trade solely in 'real assets' and purposely avoid instruments that can be affected by the movement of inflation. It is for this reason that funds such as these are particularly well-regarded as being part of a diversified portfolio. The varied range of such funds is ever-changing, the most popular being commodity-focussed (e.g. precious metals, natural resources or agricultural), although there are some funds that will hold highly specialist assets such as fine art, fine wine or antiques.
Patrick Koupland of Castlestone Management, managers of the Hansard Aliquot Gold Bullion and Hansard Aliquot Agriculture fund commented "Many investors are looking to diversify their portfolios with exposure to gold and other commodities. Gold in particular can be used as a hedge against inflation, and with the recent global stimulus packages taking hold, a rise in inflation levels is widely considered as inevitable. However, this diversification cannot be achieved from a gold equities fund, which buys not the metal itself, but stocks in related companies such as gold mines. Direct exposure to such commodities is the only way to truly diversify. This has been proven over the past five years where gold bullion and precious metals have given a better return to investors than gold equity funds - and with less risk.
These assets are one of the best hedges against the devaluation of money while silver and platinum have the economic sensitivity to rise with the improving economy. A strong validation of this is the fact we have seen the Chinese, Indian and other governments piling in to gold and stockpiling other commodities."
Hansard has a variety of fund links across a diverse range of asset classes, whether your clients have a conservative, balanced or adventurous outlook. To find out more about any of our fund links please contact your Hansard Account executive who will be able to assist you further.
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: BULL MARKET INTO 2010
Asian stocks outside of Japan may extend a bull market into 2010, helped by declining risk premiums, a recovery in economic and earnings growth, and low interest rates, according to JPMorgan Chase and Co. The MSCI Asia-Pacific excluding Japan Index may climb to 530 by the end of next year, JPMorgan analysts led by Adrian Mowat wrote in a report on Tuesday, representing a gain of 29 percent. They cut their rating on Thai shares to "neutral" from "overweight." The global economy should grow 3.4 percent next year, including "above consensus" expansion of 3.3 percent in the U.S. and 2.6 percent in Europe, benefiting demand for the region's exports, according to the report. Interest rates in the largest developed economies are also likely to stay unchanged next year, the brokerage also said.
India's local-currency rating outlook was raised to positive from stable by Moody's Investors Service, which cited a strengthening economic recovery. The change was "prompted by increasing evidence that the Indian economy has demonstrated its resilience to the global crisis and is expected to resume a high growth path with its underlying credit metrics relatively intact," Moody's analyst Aninda Mitra said in a statement on Tuesday. Moody's action comes after India's USD1.2 trillion economy expanded 7.9 percent in the three months to Sept. 30 from a year earlier, the quickest pace in six quarters. Only China grew faster in the region, with gross domestic product increasing 8.9 percent. Moody's has a Ba2 rating on India's local debt.
US retail sales in November again rose by more than expected, according to official figures. Sales rose 1.3%, the biggest gain in four months, the Commerce Department said, after retail sales in October climbed 1.1%. Petrol sales jumped 6% and sales of cars, building materials and other goods helped push up the data. Separate data also provided a boost for retailers, with the Michigan consumer confidence index rising sharply.
Brazil's central bank will keep the benchmark interest rate at a record low through 2010 because concerns that inflation will accelerate are "exaggerated," according to Daniel Tenengauzer, head of emerging-market fixed income and currency at Bank of America. Consumer prices will rise 4.5 percent next year compared with 4.31 percent in 2009, according to a central bank survey of about 100 economists published on Monday. Inflation expectations are overstated because "economic activity is not as strong as people think," Tenengauzer added.
Forecasts for annual contract prices for iron ore, a USD160 billion-a year-global market, were raised by Macquarie Group Ltd. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. after a surge in demand from China. Steelmakers and traders in China, the world's biggest consumers, boosted imports 12 percent last month to meet demand from makers of cars and appliances. Iron-ore demand from U.S. and European steelmakers will also increase next year, joining China, Vale SA, the world's largest producer, said on Tuesday.
The dollar rose to a more than two-month high against the euro amid speculation improving economic data in the U.S. will spur the Federal Reserve to signal an exit from easing policies intended to combat the recession. The U.S. currency climbed against 14 of its 16 major counterparts after futures indicated a 48 percent chance that the Fed will raise its key rate by at least a quarter-percentage point from near zero by June. The Australian dollar fell after the central bank said its decision to raise borrowing costs two weeks ago for a third straight month gave policy makers increased "flexibility" at future meetings.
India's local-currency rating outlook was raised to positive from stable by Moody's Investors Service, which cited a strengthening economic recovery. The change was "prompted by increasing evidence that the Indian economy has demonstrated its resilience to the global crisis and is expected to resume a high growth path with its underlying credit metrics relatively intact," Moody's analyst Aninda Mitra said in a statement on Tuesday. Moody's action comes after India's USD1.2 trillion economy expanded 7.9 percent in the three months to Sept. 30 from a year earlier, the quickest pace in six quarters. Only China grew faster in the region, with gross domestic product increasing 8.9 percent. Moody's has a Ba2 rating on India's local debt.
US retail sales in November again rose by more than expected, according to official figures. Sales rose 1.3%, the biggest gain in four months, the Commerce Department said, after retail sales in October climbed 1.1%. Petrol sales jumped 6% and sales of cars, building materials and other goods helped push up the data. Separate data also provided a boost for retailers, with the Michigan consumer confidence index rising sharply.
Brazil's central bank will keep the benchmark interest rate at a record low through 2010 because concerns that inflation will accelerate are "exaggerated," according to Daniel Tenengauzer, head of emerging-market fixed income and currency at Bank of America. Consumer prices will rise 4.5 percent next year compared with 4.31 percent in 2009, according to a central bank survey of about 100 economists published on Monday. Inflation expectations are overstated because "economic activity is not as strong as people think," Tenengauzer added.
Forecasts for annual contract prices for iron ore, a USD160 billion-a year-global market, were raised by Macquarie Group Ltd. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. after a surge in demand from China. Steelmakers and traders in China, the world's biggest consumers, boosted imports 12 percent last month to meet demand from makers of cars and appliances. Iron-ore demand from U.S. and European steelmakers will also increase next year, joining China, Vale SA, the world's largest producer, said on Tuesday.
The dollar rose to a more than two-month high against the euro amid speculation improving economic data in the U.S. will spur the Federal Reserve to signal an exit from easing policies intended to combat the recession. The U.S. currency climbed against 14 of its 16 major counterparts after futures indicated a 48 percent chance that the Fed will raise its key rate by at least a quarter-percentage point from near zero by June. The Australian dollar fell after the central bank said its decision to raise borrowing costs two weeks ago for a third straight month gave policy makers increased "flexibility" at future meetings.
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: EMERGING MARKETS SET TO SOAR
Emerging markets seem set to be one of the growth stories of 2010, but most fund managers agree that it is not exports which lie at the heart of this story, as was initially thought, but rather the rise of the domestic consumer.
Ewan Thompson, manager of the Neptune Emerging Markets Fund, comments: "While the outlook for infrastructure, materials and manufacturing remains very positive in the medium term, we believe that moving into 2010 the most exciting investment opportunities will be found in the consumer sectors across emerging markets."
Chris Palmer, Gartmore's head of global emerging markets, expects corporate earnings growth to drive emerging markets in 2010. He says: "We estimate that earnings will grow by 25 per cent in 2010 compared with the price/earnings ratio of 13 times as of October 2009. At the same time, the return on equity from emerging market companies is over 40 per cent higher than that of the MSCI World Index."
Mr Palmer believes that, while the market rally of the past few months was characterised by an initial rebound from depressed levels of valuation, the next phase will be driven by growing corporate profits. Companies that can finance their growth through their own cash flows will have a key advantage - and here emerging market companies with their lower debt levels have the upper hand over their developed world peers.
While most financial advisers tend to favour generalist emerging markets funds, as these spread the risk across different geographical areas, Bryan Collings, manager of the Ignis HEXAM Global Emerging Markets Fund, believes country allocation will be crucial going into next year. He says: "Country allocation is as important as ever. By the end of 2010, we expect China, Russia and Turkey to have delivered strong returns. Growth in China could be much higher than 10 per cent, despite the central bank's pre-emptive attempts at monetary tightening."
With China set to continue its dominance in the emerging markets sphere, Anthony Bolton's imminent move to Hong Kong to manage a new portfolio dedicated to investing in China and China-related opportunities could be one fund to watch in 2010. While Fidelity keeps mum over whether the fund, expected to be launched in March next year, will be available to retail investors - Mr Bolton's impressive track record, together with the strong case for China, will certainly make this a compelling investment proposition.
Mr Pemberton says that, while 2009 saw the economic balance of power tilting even further towards Asia and the emerging markets, valuations are starting to look a little stretched and any corrections can be quite savage. But, as he believes exposure on a long-term basis is essential, he recommends buying on pullbacks. "First State Asia Pacific Leaders Fund and JPMorgan Emerging Markets Fund are good solid choices, while Allianz RCM BRIC Stars is a higher octane fund choice," he says.
http://www.investorschronicle.co.uk
Ewan Thompson, manager of the Neptune Emerging Markets Fund, comments: "While the outlook for infrastructure, materials and manufacturing remains very positive in the medium term, we believe that moving into 2010 the most exciting investment opportunities will be found in the consumer sectors across emerging markets."
Chris Palmer, Gartmore's head of global emerging markets, expects corporate earnings growth to drive emerging markets in 2010. He says: "We estimate that earnings will grow by 25 per cent in 2010 compared with the price/earnings ratio of 13 times as of October 2009. At the same time, the return on equity from emerging market companies is over 40 per cent higher than that of the MSCI World Index."
Mr Palmer believes that, while the market rally of the past few months was characterised by an initial rebound from depressed levels of valuation, the next phase will be driven by growing corporate profits. Companies that can finance their growth through their own cash flows will have a key advantage - and here emerging market companies with their lower debt levels have the upper hand over their developed world peers.
While most financial advisers tend to favour generalist emerging markets funds, as these spread the risk across different geographical areas, Bryan Collings, manager of the Ignis HEXAM Global Emerging Markets Fund, believes country allocation will be crucial going into next year. He says: "Country allocation is as important as ever. By the end of 2010, we expect China, Russia and Turkey to have delivered strong returns. Growth in China could be much higher than 10 per cent, despite the central bank's pre-emptive attempts at monetary tightening."
With China set to continue its dominance in the emerging markets sphere, Anthony Bolton's imminent move to Hong Kong to manage a new portfolio dedicated to investing in China and China-related opportunities could be one fund to watch in 2010. While Fidelity keeps mum over whether the fund, expected to be launched in March next year, will be available to retail investors - Mr Bolton's impressive track record, together with the strong case for China, will certainly make this a compelling investment proposition.
Mr Pemberton says that, while 2009 saw the economic balance of power tilting even further towards Asia and the emerging markets, valuations are starting to look a little stretched and any corrections can be quite savage. But, as he believes exposure on a long-term basis is essential, he recommends buying on pullbacks. "First State Asia Pacific Leaders Fund and JPMorgan Emerging Markets Fund are good solid choices, while Allianz RCM BRIC Stars is a higher octane fund choice," he says.
http://www.investorschronicle.co.uk
Thursday 17 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: BENEFITS OF A GUERNSEY QROPS
> Transfer Offshore
The transfer of your UK registered pension can be effected without the deduction of any UK tax.
> International Use
No matter where you move in the world, nor how often you may move, your plan stays in the neutral offshore jurisdiction of Guernsey.
> Guernsey
Guernsey is an independent, well regulated and internationally accepted jurisdiction with a firm framework of legislation and practices in the financial services sector. Pension providers on the island have worked closely with HMRC to ensure a robust QROPS offering for both its resident and international clients.
> Eligibility
Anyone over the age of 18 and under the age of 75 years, excluding Jersey, US and Canadian nationals or residents, is eligible to join the Plan.
UK residents will only be eligible to join the Plan if they have clear intention to become non-UK tax resident within the next 12 months.
> Entry Level & Contributions/Transfers
• £25,000 or currency equivalent minimum single contribution or transfer
• £3,000 or currency equivalent pa minimum regular contribution
• £1,000 or currency equivalent minimum ad hoc contribution
There are no penalties to stop, start or amend contribution levels, nor is there a limit on contributions.
> Transfer Value
There are no restrictions on the amount that can be transferred. This allows you to consolidate your pension assets.
> Consolidation
This reduces the requirement for you to continually transfer your pension and your assets remain in a politically stable and well regulated environment.
> Lifetime Benefits
• An optional tax free lump sum;
• Income payments must commence within one year of taking a tax free lump sum;
• Income payments may be taken by way of an annuity, an annuity certain, or (for International Members only), a regular drawdown.
> Death Benefits
All remaining assets upon your death are distributed to Named Beneficiaries. Options available upon death include:
• An annuity to spouse or dependants;
• Payment of the proceeds of your plan to a new plan(s) for Named Beneficiary(ies);
• Retention of your plan in trust for distribution at a predefined date or future event (within 2 years of your death);
• Winding up of your plan and payment into your estate;
• Winding up of your plan and payment directly to Named Beneficiaries.
In order to cater for changing circumstances you can easily amend your succession instructions.
Annuities are not purchased from Life Assurance companies. Thus, on death all remaining assets are returned to your plan for distribution in line with your wishes. These assets would otherwise be lost.
> Tax
Tax Efficient Growth
Income and capital gains from the assets within your plan are not subject to Guernsey tax. Therefore, the assets within your plan grow in a tax efficient environment.
Apply online at www.qrops-advisers.com
The transfer of your UK registered pension can be effected without the deduction of any UK tax.
> International Use
No matter where you move in the world, nor how often you may move, your plan stays in the neutral offshore jurisdiction of Guernsey.
> Guernsey
Guernsey is an independent, well regulated and internationally accepted jurisdiction with a firm framework of legislation and practices in the financial services sector. Pension providers on the island have worked closely with HMRC to ensure a robust QROPS offering for both its resident and international clients.
> Eligibility
Anyone over the age of 18 and under the age of 75 years, excluding Jersey, US and Canadian nationals or residents, is eligible to join the Plan.
UK residents will only be eligible to join the Plan if they have clear intention to become non-UK tax resident within the next 12 months.
> Entry Level & Contributions/Transfers
• £25,000 or currency equivalent minimum single contribution or transfer
• £3,000 or currency equivalent pa minimum regular contribution
• £1,000 or currency equivalent minimum ad hoc contribution
There are no penalties to stop, start or amend contribution levels, nor is there a limit on contributions.
> Transfer Value
There are no restrictions on the amount that can be transferred. This allows you to consolidate your pension assets.
> Consolidation
This reduces the requirement for you to continually transfer your pension and your assets remain in a politically stable and well regulated environment.
> Lifetime Benefits
• An optional tax free lump sum;
• Income payments must commence within one year of taking a tax free lump sum;
• Income payments may be taken by way of an annuity, an annuity certain, or (for International Members only), a regular drawdown.
> Death Benefits
All remaining assets upon your death are distributed to Named Beneficiaries. Options available upon death include:
• An annuity to spouse or dependants;
• Payment of the proceeds of your plan to a new plan(s) for Named Beneficiary(ies);
• Retention of your plan in trust for distribution at a predefined date or future event (within 2 years of your death);
• Winding up of your plan and payment into your estate;
• Winding up of your plan and payment directly to Named Beneficiaries.
In order to cater for changing circumstances you can easily amend your succession instructions.
Annuities are not purchased from Life Assurance companies. Thus, on death all remaining assets are returned to your plan for distribution in line with your wishes. These assets would otherwise be lost.
> Tax
Tax Efficient Growth
Income and capital gains from the assets within your plan are not subject to Guernsey tax. Therefore, the assets within your plan grow in a tax efficient environment.
Apply online at www.qrops-advisers.com
Wednesday 16 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: Investment News: Sterling is the X-pat factor
Sterling is the X-pat factor, as cash-strapped Britons abandon the Eldorado dream
by Helen Burggraf
UK expats are increasingly throwing in the beach towel on their expatriate dreams, as the weak pound has sent the cost of living in the eurozone soaring, according to recent data from reallymoving.com.
Reallymoving, a UK... website that provides online quotes for home-movers, said the number of people requesting quotes to ship their household belongings to the UK has increased by 37% over the past year, while there has been an 18% decline in the number of people moving from the UK to the continent during the same period.
The company said this “uplift in demand for removal quotes from expats in Europe wanting to relocate back to the UK” represented a “turnaround” from the exodus of Brits to the region that predated the slide in the value of Britain’s currency.
One pound is currently worth €1.11, down more than 25% from three years ago, when it was at €1.49, and 20% from two years ago, when Britons got €1.39 for their pounds.
UK retirees who receive their pensions and investment income in sterling have been hardest hit by this decline. Those who work in the eurozone but who are paid in pounds have also seen their incomes contract significantly.
Recieve your pension in currencies other than Sterling - contact 0044 1664 4446256 for details.
http://www.international-adviser.com/lwm/article/1004
by Helen Burggraf
UK expats are increasingly throwing in the beach towel on their expatriate dreams, as the weak pound has sent the cost of living in the eurozone soaring, according to recent data from reallymoving.com.
Reallymoving, a UK... website that provides online quotes for home-movers, said the number of people requesting quotes to ship their household belongings to the UK has increased by 37% over the past year, while there has been an 18% decline in the number of people moving from the UK to the continent during the same period.
The company said this “uplift in demand for removal quotes from expats in Europe wanting to relocate back to the UK” represented a “turnaround” from the exodus of Brits to the region that predated the slide in the value of Britain’s currency.
One pound is currently worth €1.11, down more than 25% from three years ago, when it was at €1.49, and 20% from two years ago, when Britons got €1.39 for their pounds.
UK retirees who receive their pensions and investment income in sterling have been hardest hit by this decline. Those who work in the eurozone but who are paid in pounds have also seen their incomes contract significantly.
Recieve your pension in currencies other than Sterling - contact 0044 1664 4446256 for details.
http://www.international-adviser.com/lwm/article/1004
Tuesday 8 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: Expatriate Statistics
5.5 Million Brits live outsidethe UK permanently, plus .5 Million in the UK own a property overseas, making approx 10% of the uk populution potentially Expatriates.
The UK pays £2 Billion in Sterling to over 1 Million pensioners overseas and growing.
The UK expatriates more of the proportion of it's population than any other country apart from India and China.
Most popular destinations for British expats are Spain, Portugal and Cyprus.
Over 300,000 Brits emigrate every year.
Figures suppied by The Institute of Public Policy Research 2007
http://www.qrops-advisers.com
The UK pays £2 Billion in Sterling to over 1 Million pensioners overseas and growing.
The UK expatriates more of the proportion of it's population than any other country apart from India and China.
Most popular destinations for British expats are Spain, Portugal and Cyprus.
Over 300,000 Brits emigrate every year.
Figures suppied by The Institute of Public Policy Research 2007
http://www.qrops-advisers.com
Friday 4 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: HMRC faces fresh QROPS legal challenge
London & Colonial Assurance, an insurance, pension and investment company, may mount a legal challenge against HMRC over its apparent opposition to QROPS schemes based in its domicile, Gibraltar.
The firm, which also has offices in the UK, has sought legal opinion from two separate QCs. Both assert HMRC is wrong in its contention that Gibraltar’s 0% rate of income tax for over 60s’ is incompatible with QROPS rules. Its barristers have also questioned whether the UK’s position will withstand scrutiny from the European Union, of which Gibraltar is a member.
London & Colonial (L&C) currently has no QROPS scheme of its own but may launch one and is keen to ensure it home jurisdiction’s rules are deemed compatible with UK legislation.
For the past six months, Gibraltar pensions providers have been operating under a voluntary ban on new QROPS business until the quarrel with HMRC is resolved. It arose earlier this year after pension providers in Gibraltar received letters from HMRC asking for clarification of its pension rules.
Ken Wrench, L&C chief executive, said it was irrelevant what tax Gibraltar pensioners paid, or did not pay, to UK coffers, even if a UK resident was paying into a Gibraltar scheme.
“Why is HMRC being difficult and delaying its agreement to QROPS in Gibraltar? If it is simply the interpretation of the letter of the regulations, then it is about time HMRC either agree that a favourable interpretation is acceptable or change the regulations. Gibraltar is an ideal jurisdiction for QROPS – it is within the EU, well regulated, the currency is sterling, the language English and the common law legal system is similar to the UK,” said Wrench.
HMRC global scrutiny
Gibraltar is not the first territory to face HMRC investigation into its pension rules. Last year all Singapore schemes were deemed incompatible with QROPS rules and HMRC no longer permits providers to domicile QROPS there.
Providers in Gibraltar are expecting a response from HMRC next week over the status of their schemes. If HMRC rules they are not compatible, L&C said it would seek to challenge the position in the courts.
It would not be the first company to resort to legal action. Panthera, a provider that operated a scheme out of Singapore, is currently preparing a similar challenge.
by Dan Judge http://www.international-adviser.com/lwm/article/920
The firm, which also has offices in the UK, has sought legal opinion from two separate QCs. Both assert HMRC is wrong in its contention that Gibraltar’s 0% rate of income tax for over 60s’ is incompatible with QROPS rules. Its barristers have also questioned whether the UK’s position will withstand scrutiny from the European Union, of which Gibraltar is a member.
London & Colonial (L&C) currently has no QROPS scheme of its own but may launch one and is keen to ensure it home jurisdiction’s rules are deemed compatible with UK legislation.
For the past six months, Gibraltar pensions providers have been operating under a voluntary ban on new QROPS business until the quarrel with HMRC is resolved. It arose earlier this year after pension providers in Gibraltar received letters from HMRC asking for clarification of its pension rules.
Ken Wrench, L&C chief executive, said it was irrelevant what tax Gibraltar pensioners paid, or did not pay, to UK coffers, even if a UK resident was paying into a Gibraltar scheme.
“Why is HMRC being difficult and delaying its agreement to QROPS in Gibraltar? If it is simply the interpretation of the letter of the regulations, then it is about time HMRC either agree that a favourable interpretation is acceptable or change the regulations. Gibraltar is an ideal jurisdiction for QROPS – it is within the EU, well regulated, the currency is sterling, the language English and the common law legal system is similar to the UK,” said Wrench.
HMRC global scrutiny
Gibraltar is not the first territory to face HMRC investigation into its pension rules. Last year all Singapore schemes were deemed incompatible with QROPS rules and HMRC no longer permits providers to domicile QROPS there.
Providers in Gibraltar are expecting a response from HMRC next week over the status of their schemes. If HMRC rules they are not compatible, L&C said it would seek to challenge the position in the courts.
It would not be the first company to resort to legal action. Panthera, a provider that operated a scheme out of Singapore, is currently preparing a similar challenge.
by Dan Judge http://www.international-adviser.com/lwm/article/920
Thursday 3 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: Malta gains QROPS approval by Dan Judge
Malta has become the latest country to gain QROPS recognition from the HMRC following months of negotiations.
The development means Malta-domiciled pensions schemes that are approved by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) are eligible for QROPS status.
HRMC said it would assess schemes for suitability on a case-by-case basis.
The MFSA said it was processing a number of applications for retirement schemes under its Special Funds Act. Once authorised under the act, the schemes will be able to seek QROPS status from HMRC.
A number of these schemes are expected to then apply for QROPS status.
A spokesman for the MFSA said: “This is a significant development for Malta indicating. The strong reputation of the Maltese financial services industry coupled with the fact that Malta is an English speaking country, had already generated a lot of interest in this area.”
He added pension schemes established in Malta were included in the Mediterranean state’s network of more than 50 double taxation agreements and were also recognised in all countries in the European Economic Area (EEA).
News of Malta’s approval comes as Gibraltar, the British overseas territory on the tip of Spain, awaits a decision from HMRC over whether it will be able to continue as a QROPS domicile.
The jurisdiction voluntarily stopped processing QROPS business around six months ago after HMRC raised concerns over its tax treatment of pension benefits for over 60s – a zero per cent tax is applied.
HMRC is expected to make an announcement as soon as this week over its fate.
http://www.international-adviser.com/lwm/article/960
The development means Malta-domiciled pensions schemes that are approved by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) are eligible for QROPS status.
HRMC said it would assess schemes for suitability on a case-by-case basis.
The MFSA said it was processing a number of applications for retirement schemes under its Special Funds Act. Once authorised under the act, the schemes will be able to seek QROPS status from HMRC.
A number of these schemes are expected to then apply for QROPS status.
A spokesman for the MFSA said: “This is a significant development for Malta indicating. The strong reputation of the Maltese financial services industry coupled with the fact that Malta is an English speaking country, had already generated a lot of interest in this area.”
He added pension schemes established in Malta were included in the Mediterranean state’s network of more than 50 double taxation agreements and were also recognised in all countries in the European Economic Area (EEA).
News of Malta’s approval comes as Gibraltar, the British overseas territory on the tip of Spain, awaits a decision from HMRC over whether it will be able to continue as a QROPS domicile.
The jurisdiction voluntarily stopped processing QROPS business around six months ago after HMRC raised concerns over its tax treatment of pension benefits for over 60s – a zero per cent tax is applied.
HMRC is expected to make an announcement as soon as this week over its fate.
http://www.international-adviser.com/lwm/article/960
Tuesday 1 December 2009
QROPS ADVICE: ABOUT ARGENT INTERNATIONAL
Argent International is a highly respected financial services group of companies, specializes in comprehensive and independent financial advisory, wealth management, company and trust administration services to private, corporate and institutional investors.
For over 22 years we have assisted investors to enhance their financial position and make the most of the opportunities available in the global financial market.
For over 22 years we have assisted investors to enhance their financial position and make the most of the opportunities available in the global financial market.
QROPS ADVICE: 4 STEPS TO PROTECTING YOUR PENSION
1.Complete the Letter of Authority form giving Argent International authorisation to request the transfer value and transfer forms (3 in total) on your behalf. (see Argent Links below)
2.Once the current transfer value is confirmed by the UK pension provider you then complete a Form of Engagement with Argent International once the fees have been agreed.
3.All of the forms will be completed and sent to your U.K. pension provider.
4.The UK pension provider then transfers the fund to QROPS. Complete sign and return the Letter of Authority by fax on +44(0)1664 444625 or email to the qrops@aifsg.com. Alternatively ring our Pensions Advisers on +44 (0)1664 444625.
2.Once the current transfer value is confirmed by the UK pension provider you then complete a Form of Engagement with Argent International once the fees have been agreed.
3.All of the forms will be completed and sent to your U.K. pension provider.
4.The UK pension provider then transfers the fund to QROPS. Complete sign and return the Letter of Authority by fax on +44(0)1664 444625 or email to the qrops@aifsg.com. Alternatively ring our Pensions Advisers on +44 (0)1664 444625.
QROPS ADVICE: HOW QROPS WORKS
Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs (HMRC) permit UK pension rights to be transferred to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS). The QROPS must be in effect as if it were a UK scheme for those members who have been resident in the UK at any time in the previous five tax years. The QROPS is structured very much like a UK pension; i.e. an investment vehicle which is owned on your behalf by a pension provider/administrator (the trustees). The trustees must be based outside the UK and approved by HMRC as a QROPS administrator.
Full information on the QROPS scheme and more importantly the most suited jurisdiction for the QROPS to be held will be provided to you when you speak to one of our QROPS advisers, without cost or obligation.
www.qrops-advisers.com
Full information on the QROPS scheme and more importantly the most suited jurisdiction for the QROPS to be held will be provided to you when you speak to one of our QROPS advisers, without cost or obligation.
www.qrops-advisers.com
QROPS ADVICE: BENEFITS OF QROPS
There is NO requirement to purchase an insurance annuity.
Leave all unused pension funds to your beneficiaries free of UK taxes.
There are no limits on contributions to the fund, nor fund size.
Flexibility as to when benefits can be taken from the Plan (personal tax status allowing).
Take income and benefits in currency of your choice.
Greater Tax efficiency on drawdown.
Tax advantages and savings.
The ability to take in transfers from UK approved pension schemes
Open to all nationalities.
Investment flexibility, with investments in stocks, bonds, alternative investments, deposits, real estate, private equity, options and life policies.
Transparent fee structure with no hidden penalties or exit fees.
Leave all unused pension funds to your beneficiaries free of UK taxes.
There are no limits on contributions to the fund, nor fund size.
Flexibility as to when benefits can be taken from the Plan (personal tax status allowing).
Take income and benefits in currency of your choice.
Greater Tax efficiency on drawdown.
Tax advantages and savings.
The ability to take in transfers from UK approved pension schemes
Open to all nationalities.
Investment flexibility, with investments in stocks, bonds, alternative investments, deposits, real estate, private equity, options and life policies.
Transparent fee structure with no hidden penalties or exit fees.
QROPS ADVICE: Why Should I Be Interested in QROPS?
With an ever increasing ageing population, there are not enough young people paying into the state scheme to take care of pensioners. The likely result is a crack down on pensions schemes in the future and an increase in taxes (as we have witnessed already). Luckily for UK citizens, they can transfer their UK private pensions offshore to mitigate tax. The Qualifying Recognized Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) allows most types of UK private pensions to be transferred offshore. QROPS was designed with the intention of giving UK expats who aren't returning to the UK the option of moving their pension to a 'white list' country offshore such as Guernsey or the Isle of Man. Not only do you mitigate tax, but you don't need to purchase an annuity. This means that your whole pension fund is left to your spouse upon death and then onto your kids should your spouse pass away.
http://www.qrops-advisers.com
http://www.qrops-advisers.com
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