Barclays Wealth in defined returns plan launch

Barclays Wealth has unveiled a new Defined Returns Plan Annual Kick-Out, which offers investors the potential for early returns of 6.50% per annum from the third year onwards subject to the FTSE being at or above 90% of the initial index level.

An investment return will be realised on the first anniversary on which this condition is met  – from the third year onwards – and capital will then be repaid and the investment will come to an end.  This offering will be available to investors until the 12 September 2011.

The new Defined Returns Plan Annual Kick-Out may be especially appealing to those investors who are sceptical about the future performance of the FTSE, as the product will pay out even if there is a drop in its value of up to 10% - from the initial index level.  

If there has been no early maturity after six years, capital will be reduced if the index closes below 50% of its initial index level, at maturity.  Should this happen, investors will lose capital on a one for one basis with the index.

Richard Henry, director, Investor Solutions, Barclays Wealth, said: “Many investors will be cautious on the outlook for the FTSE following the extreme market turbulence that we have witnessed in recent weeks and with the outlook remaining uncertain, investors will be looking for a vehicle to shelter their investments.

“Annual Kick-Out products have proved popular with our clients in the past, and this latest addition should help clients further balance their portfolios and diversify their investment choices.”