Advisers expect the number of couples and families seeking joint advice on retirement planning will increase as a result of the recent pension freedoms, according to research by Prudential.

ABI data released today shows that £4.7bn has been withdrawn under the new pension freedoms but surprisingly annuity sales have risen for the first time in three years.

Britain’s higher earners should consider reviewing their pension tax relief strategy “sooner rather than later”, warns the chief executive of a large independent financial advisory organisation.

Investment manager Alquity says its research has found that over a third (38%) of IFAs said they had never discussed responsible investing with clients or considered offering it as part of a portfolio.

Columbia Threadneedle Investments has launched the Threadneedle Ethical UK Equity Fund.

David Thompson, managing director of business development and proposition at AXA Wealth, has joined the chorus of leading figures expressing concerns about a pension-Isa merger.

Plans for a new industry code on vulnerable customers at renewal and to publish industry data on how many claims are accepted for motor, property and travel products, will be announced by ABI chairman and AXA UK CEO Paul Evans today.

Kames is launching an emerging market bond fund which will invest primarily in investment grade debt of EM sovereigns and corporates primarily through hard currency.

Tilney Bestinvest, the investment and Financial Planning group, has appointed a new Financial Planner as part of its aim to expand its Financial Planning team.

Sandringham Financial Partners has launched an auto-enrolment (AE) consultancy to support partners working to deliver auto-enrolment solutions for business clients.