Half Standard Life with-profits holders hit by bonus cut

From 1 February, bonus rates on some plans will be reduced (see table below) as the insurer invests more money in lower-risk assets such as fixed interest and cash in order to meet higher guaranteed benefits. "We have reduced the bonus growth rates for some plans to maintain investment flexibility over the long term," said Standard Life with-profits spokesperson Margaret Flaherty. "For many customers the guarantee continues to be a very attractive element of their investment." Some with-profits unit prices will grow more slowly from February as a result of the reductions, it said. ...