HLB Mann Judd partner of wealth management Jonathan Philpot said that while income stream products such as lifetime annuities are an investment option for SMSF trustees looking for a steady income, they should avoid locking away a large proportion of their fund in these products.
“It’s a low type return that you’re locking in so you’ve got to be careful not to lock in too much. You’re probably not getting much return at the moment, about 4.5 per cent if you’re lucky,” said Mr Philpott.
‘It’s about having a balance so a small portion of money in these products is fine.”
HLB Mann Judd partner of wealth management and superannuation Michael Hutton said that SMSF trustees often think when interest rates are low it’s the best time to invest in a lifetime annuity.
“However when interest rates are low, that’s also when get the lowest actuarially calculated return for annuities as well,” said Mr Hutton.
“So it’s actually better to take out lifetime annuities when interest rates are really high.”
This a no-brainer! I remember promoting annuities in the 80’s. Lifetime, 10 min payment, cpi indexed, and IRR of 17℅+…
Current offers point to lazy planning if utilised!!
I agree, what they are doing is close to criminal. Locking in clients forever into low returns, this low interest rate cycle will not last. Why not try direct corporate bonds from a good broker, more liquid, like daily, higher return and just as safe. What they are doing is investing in exactly the same bonds so when interest rates increase they quadrupedal their profits at the clients expense.
Agreed. Providing flexibility as well
Just as safe??? No argument with the premise of the article but no way just as safe.