Why has there been such a dramatic growth in third party fund links? Simply because the market now demands greater choice and flexibility to access different investment managers for all financial products.

We have long recognised the changes taking place in the distribution and selection of life and pensions business, and indeed in the whole arena of third party fund distribution. As a result, we are increasingly visible as an investment manager that is frequently included in the number of third party links that are being announced by insurance companies.

We are primarily differentiated by our unique and proven global thematic investment approach, which has been developed over the last 20 years and is seen by many insurance companies as offering a complementary alternative to other more traditional investment styles.

We appreciate and understand the strategic importance of third party links, particularly in relation to pensions, and have put in place dedicated resources to support such ventures. We are committed to working with our partners to ensure the most favourable overall proposition, which is both competitively priced and which will also provide the necessary support to ensure the ongoing success of the relationship. This is currently one of the fastest growing areas of our business, and one in which we see enormous long term potential for both parties.

Above everything however, is our central belief that all third-party links are treated as strategic partnerships with a strong commitment to success from both sides.

Our aim is always to provide sufficient flexibility and choice to allow our partners to achieve the most compatible "best fit" for their range and thereby produce the strongest overall marketing message for their own products.