MetLife identifies support for guaranteed products

Research commissioned by MetLife showed nearly 88 per cent of clients this year say they understand and value income and capital guarantees in products, compared with 83 per cent in 2011 and 79 per cent in 2010.

Dominic Grinstead, managing director of MetLife UK, said the rise is being driven by increased experience and expertise from IFAs advising on guaranteed retirement and investment products.

The research found 74 per cent of clients rated their IFA as very good or excellent in providing clear product information, while 73 per cent said advisers were very good or excellent at highlighting the benefits of guarantees.

The majority of clients, 70 per cent, said advisers were very good or excellent at pointing out the potential risks associated with guaranteed products in the survey.

Mr Grinstead said: “There is always a case for guarantees as part of a balanced portfolio but it is clear that the ongoing volatility driven by the euro crisis is underlining the case for IFAs and clients.

“There is a real need for certainty when planning for retirement and guarantees have a key role to play along with other products. This is demonstrated by the increase we have seen in client satisfaction with guaranteed products.”