General Insurance Article - Scottish Widows announce fund refresh

 As part of the Scottish Widows’ ‘Driving Pension Value’ programme, launched earlier this year, the investment offering across its life and pensions propositions will be enhanced across key asset classes through the launch of 21 new funds available from November.

 Following a substantial review, which has included extensive research and due diligence by its fund manager assessment team, Scottish Widows has announced an expansion to its fund range across key sectors and strategies. The additions include a number of multi-asset and absolute return funds, in addition to innovative smart beta equity strategies to meet the changing needs of customers.

 Iain McGowan, Head of Fund Development and Analysis at Scottish Widows, said: “Following changes we made to our lifestyling options and the launch of our Premier fund range earlier this year, these changes represent a major step towards our long term commitment to provide the best solutions for our customers. These changes have been based on extensive adviser and customer research, as well as the insight and expertise of our fund manager assessment team.

 “We have focused these additions on emerging sectors and strategies we know are becoming more attractive to customers, sourcing leading managers with strong capability and credentials to run these funds.”

 As part of a wider initiative, further enhancements will be announced to ensure advisers and customers have access to the best investment solutions as part of a commitment to drive greater pension value and help customers with their retirement planning.