Zurich Equity Linked Growth Account launched

Available immediately, the Zurich Equity Linked Growth Account runs for five years.  It offers intermediaries and their clients the potential to earn 80% of any growth of the FTSE 100 index whilst protecting clients' original capital investment.

Applications must be received by 29 March 2010 and those submitted by 22nd February 2010 will be eligible for an ‘early bird bonus' of 0.33%. 

Provided by Dunbar Bank, Zurich's Equity Linked Growth Account gives intermediaries and their clients the opportunity to invest throughout the year - as one product tranche closes a new one opens.  The deposit based product offers investors full capital security and growth potential with returns linked to the performance of the FTSE 100 index.

Paul Wright, Zurich's Investment Management Director, comments: "We are seeing indications that economic recovery is underway, though the forecasts show that this will be slow and fragile.  With this in mind, financial security through capital protection remains at the top of the agenda for investors."

"The Equity Linked Growth Account is an ideal vehicle for more cautious investors who want to reap the rewards of growth from the FTSE index and market recovery, without having to take all of the risks usually associated with direct investment in stocks and shares - as their original capital investment remains protected."

Key features of the Guaranteed Capital Account include:

100% capital guaranteed
Interest on the ISA element is tax-free under current regulations
Minimum investment is £2,500 and maximum investment is £1 million - £3,600 of this can be the client's Cash ISA contribution for the 2009/10 tax year.
3.25% initial commission is payable on all monies invested into this account.

Wright concludes, "Despite the unprecedented market volatility Zurich Financial Services Group remains well positioned to weather the storm.  With 27 consecutive quarters of growth, a strong balance sheet and clear investment strategy, customers can feel confident about investing with the group."

"For added security, the Equity Linked Growth Account also offers a money back guarantee if the stock market falls or remains static, offering the same level of protection as any bank or building society deposit account as it is covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme."