Lombard International Assurance, which is based in Luxembourg, has introduced a product for Irish investors. The Lombard Investment Bond is a single premium unit-linked investment bond. It requires a minimum investment of €70,000 (£55,129) with additional individual investments of up to €15,000. There is no maximum level of investment. The funds will be invested in a range of low, medium and high risk global equities and bonds. The investment is intended as a long-term one although investors can take the accumulated cash value whenever they choose, either in part or in full. Investors will pay a quarterly administration charge of 0.375 of a percentage point of the total value of the investment bond. For an initial period of five years there is an additional quarterly charge of 0.35 of a percentage point of the value of the investment.

All interest and capital gains are accumulated within the bond tax free. Dividends on the underlying investments are subject to withholding tax and Lombard will not make any declaration to overseas tax authorities. Investors should contact an independent financial adviser in relation to their tax position before investing in this bond. Further details are available from BM Asset Management at 01 678 9880.