This publication helps policy makers to better understand annuity products and the
guarantees they provide in order to optimise the role that these products can play
in financing retirement. Product design is a crucial factor in the potential role
of annuity products within the pension system, along with the cost and demand for
these products, and the resulting risks that are borne by the annuity providers. Increasingly
complex products, however, pose additional challenges concerning consumer protection.
Consumers need to be aware of their options and have access to unbiased and comprehensible
advice and information about these products.