John Hancock Funds Upgrades Web Site

John Hancock Funds launched new multimedia technology on its adviser Web site, including video commentary on the markets by portfolio managers.

The site now also features flip book technology showcasing the John Hancock Funds campaign “12 Great New Client Connections,” including a narrated flash-tour with 12 months’ worth of tools and ideas. The technology allows advisers to browse the information, flipping through the pages like a book. Each month includes a downloadable brochure and seminar presentation on a featured topic, as well as an interactive segment, the company said.

John Hancock Funds, the Boston-based mutual fund business unit of John Hancock Financial Services, plans to expand its use of the new technology in other marketing projects, it says. “Flip Book is an effective and efficient way to organize large chunks of information,” said Carey Foran Hoch, Senior Vice President and head of Marketing for John Hancock Funds. “People like hearing a voice speaking, and they acquire information better and more quickly hearing than by reading alone.”

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The adviser Web site, which already features audio podcasts by John Hancock portfolio managers, is also now featuring a section with videos of market commentary by portfolio managers.

“Due to popular demand from advisers, we plan to continue expanding our video commentary selection,” Hoch said.

Retirees Worry About Inflation

A new study from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) finds inflation is the top retirement concern for retirees as well as Baby Boomers nearing retirement.

A press release said the Risks and Process of Retirement Survey Report indicated pre-retirees and retirees are worrying about keeping the value of their assets up with inflation as well as having enough money to pay for long-term care, paying for adequate health care, and maintaining a reasonable standard of living after the loss of a spouse.

As a result of increased longevity, pre-retirees and retirees are concerned that inflation will significantly contribute to the depletion of their retirement savings and assets. To manage this risk, the report suggests investment strategies to preserve principal, such as investing in annuities.

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The study found women are more concerned than men that inflation will significantly impact their retirement resources. Women also expressed higher levels of concern regarding: inflation (62% of women versus 51% of men); affording long-term care (57% versus 47%); health care costs (56% versus 45%); depleting savings (52% versus 37%); and staying in their home (44% versus 29%).

The full report can be viewed here.

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