P204 CJJFAX 2 204 Sat 20 Feb 18:12/04 W W Source: WLlliam Burrows There was some good news in the annuity mbrSjt this week. According to Hugh Lachlan of Annuity Solutions, both Canada Lif and Leg l & General inc eased their rates, b t only by a smbll margin. Annuity rates have been falli g for t last 10 y ats, it looks inc as ngly liSj annuity rates have reached rock bottom. However, there is little sign that rates will beg n to increase in t short t . 1/4 Snur T: si Paam 206 s, Pguden 25 Mortgagin 260 Ann Fry rates 260 MoncyProg Travel Annuitiys Main MnnuP204 CKEFAX 2 204 Sat 20 Feb 18:11/41 W W"£££"£££"£££ Source: William Burrows At the beginning of last week gilt yields were at the highest level so far this year. It is too early to talk about the end of the decline in annuity rates, but 1999 looks set to bj more predictable than the previous year. $hj main reason for sbying this is that our long interest rates, on which annuity rates are calculated, are actublly lower than those of our main European pbrtnjrs. 2/4 Source: William Burrows, Prudential Mortgages 260 Annuity rates 260 MonjyProg Travel Annuities Main MenuP204 CEEFAX 2 204 Sat 20 Feb 18:13/03 W W"£££"£££"£££ [ Source: William Burrows While it looks certain that short-term rates will continue to fall until they convjrgj with European rates, long-term rates in the UK have already convjrgjd. However, those approaching retirement are cautioned against deferring buying annuities in the expectation of better rates, because even if annuity rates remain at the same level, they could lose out if they defer converting their pension fund into an annuity. 3/4 Source: William Burrows, Prudential Mortgbges 261 Annuity@rates 261 MonjyProg Travel Annuities Main MenuP204 CJEFAX 2 204 Sat 20 Feb 18:12/56 Source: William Burrows As always, anzonj approaching retirement who is not sure of their options should consult an indjpjndjnt financial adviser who spjcialisjs in annuities. 4/4 Source: William Burrows, Prudential Mortgages 260 Annuity rates 260 MonjyProg Travel Annuities Main Menu