In recent years the pensions industry has become more advanced in terms of the flexibility of investments available and the structure of the actual pension arrangements.
It is an area of constant change and you should consult us regularly to make preparations for a secure and enjoyable retirement.
Self Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs)
A Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is a tax-efficient wrapper within which a wide range of investments can be held. A new SIPP must appoint a scheme administrator, usually the recognised product provider. SIPPs have the same tax benefits and regulations as conventional personal pension plans but you and / or your advisers have control over the investment choice - each SIPP is unique to the individual. Otherwise, it operates in the same way as a conventional personal pension in respect of contributions and eligibility, for Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs (HMRC) purposes.
The complex nature of a SIPP means that it is not suitable for all investors.
Often, the benefits of 'self investment' are only advantageous to people with very large funds and / or investors with some level of sophistication when it comes to investment decisions. Often, there are additional charges for arranging and dealing within a SIPP and these charges would erode smaller funds quickly.
The benefits of using a SIPP include being able to invest in:
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Stocks and shares listed or dealt on an Inland Revenue recognised stock exchange, including AIM
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Stock exchanges that are not recognised by HMRC, e.g. OFEX.
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Unit trusts, open ended investment companies (OEICs)
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Warrants, covered warrants
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Government stock and fixed interest stock
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Unquoted shares
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Commercial property
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Property funds