HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd announced that the 2005 Bonus Rate for all its “with-profits” products is now set at 4 per cent.

“We believe that in the present interest rate environment we find ourselves in, the new bonus rate is both equitable and attractive to all our customers, particularly when one considers that under current tax regulations, the bonus is free of tax in the policy holder's hands,” said Richard Reid, managing director of HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd.

As in previous years, HSBC Life is declaring its annual bonus rate at the beginning of the year to keep customers updated with any changes. “This is a unique feature in the market place in Malta and by doing so we believe that HSBC is acting in a transparent and customer friendly manner,” said Mr Reid.