National party leader John Key says he and deputy Bill English are simpatico on superannuation issues.

More flexibility on income protection offerings and enhanced special events are the centrepiece of a revamp of products by AIA Insurance.

UPDATED: AXA has added new options for commissions on its life insurance products, streamlined underwriting and added definitions to existing insurance products.

If they are not turning bearish just yet, there is at least an ominous growling from Arcus Investments at its quarterly briefing yesterday.

National is looking closely at developments across the Tasman as a pointer to superannuation and savings policy.

At least one senior economist, Reserve Bank governor Alan Bollard, does not expect large numbers going for KiwiSaver.

Tax officials and the savings industry have gone into a huddle over difficulties with the new investment tax law – including the question of which Australian companies will be exempt form offshore tax.

Finance minister Michael Cullen has – again – poured cold water on the idea of compulsory savings.

Hikes in life insurance premiums – or lower profits for insurance companies – are one likely outcome of government proposals to change how life policies are taxed.

AXA is promising new insurance products and different commission strategies.

A shift away from passively managed funds is under way in advance of tax changes due to take effect from April.

A shift away from passively managed funds is under way in advance of tax changes due to take effect from April.

Asteron is launching a new line of key person insurance, as well as add-ons to their existing SmartLife and SmartLiving products – and a premium increase.

Finance Minister Michael Cullen has specifically raised the issue of mandatory savings funded by a tax cut – and shied away from saying what he thinks of the idea.

Two insurance firms are talking of the need for more professionalism in the financial advice industry after being burned by Queenstown broker Garry Patterson.

Insurance companies have been accused of “paranoia” about covering people who have suffered stress or other mental illnesses.