Winterthur goes international

Winterthur announces its entry into the offshore market. Winterthur International, the new offshore Winterthur business, launches this week with the International Investment Bond provided by AXA Isle of Man.

The new product proposition consists of a unit-linked single premium investment bond (life or capital redemption version) available with a comprehensive range of trusts. A Discounted Gift Scheme will also be available with a choice of bare or discretionary trusts.

With up to 500 policy segments, these flexible products provide the opportunity for tax planning. The simple and transparent charging structure and unlimited free switching help make a sophisticated product easy to use.

David Thompson, managing director, sales & marketing, AXA & Winterthur Wealth Management, comments: "The Winterthur International Investment Bond will be backed by a strong technology offering and the Tailored Selection and Elite fund of fund investment ranges. It also reflects many of the successful features of the Winterthur Onshore Bond such as Flexible Adviser Remuneration, drip feeding and portfolio rebalancing. The entry into the offshore market will be supported by our strong onshore distribution proposition, coupled with the award winning AXA Isle of Man capabilities."

Kevin Dean, CEO, AXA Isle of Man, says: "I believe the new Winterthur offshore bond will prove popular with advisers. The Isle of Man is a favourable offshore jurisdiction. AXA has been operating here for 16 years and we have a well established infrastructure and expertise in providing offshore solutions for the UK market."

Offshore products are now becoming a core part of financial and tax planning. While the proposed changes in the pre-Budget report have created some uncertainty, Winterthur believes that these products still have an important role to play.