SimplyBiz strikes deals with Zurich and Prudential

Support services group SimplyBiz has struck deals with Zurich and Prudential as it bolsters its Verbatim service.

Under the deals, Verbatim users will have access to the Zurich platform and Prudential’s insured bond and pension products, which will integrate with Verbatim’s systems.

They are the first of six ‘strategic partnerships’ SimplyBiz will agree by the end of the year.

New Model Adviser® understands SimplyBiz is in talks with 10 other providers as it closes in on four other agreements. Those providers are understood to be Standard Life, Aviva, Legal & General, Cofunds, Aegon, AXA, Royal London, Just Retirement, Partnership and Skandia.

Neil Stevens, SimplyBiz joint managing director, said the agreements would help the group build integrated trading and client management services using Verbatim, which offers investment services and financial planning tools.

‘This approach will see the best of product and platform capabilities delivered directly into the adviser’s front-office,’ he said. ‘In the post-retail distribution review (RDR) world, the client will experience a complete and all-encompassing service from the adviser, and be in no doubt of who is providing them with the service and value to meet their needs.’

Prudential’s offering through Verbatim launched in May, while the Zurich platform, which is yet to launch, is set to go link up with Verbatim in the second half of the year.