loose change

Scottish Life International is launching a Secure Investment Portfolio, a single-premium life assurance policy investing in "controlled risks" funds. The off-shore fund offers tax-free roll-up of investments until money is withdrawn and the minimum investment is pounds 15,000. For details, call 0131-456 6000.

Black Horse Financial Services is offering a free "life risk indicator" which shows the risk of falling victim to a variety of illnesses or even death across a range ages. For a free indicator, call 0800 269063.

Bradford & Bingley Building Society is launching a cashback mortgage offering a 5 per cent lump sum on completion for loans up to 85 per cent of a home's value. The minimum loan is pounds 30,000 and the maximum is pounds 250,000. However, the variable rate will be 0.25 per cent above its existing 7.35 per cent cost. Details from all branches.

Irish Permanent, the largest lender in the Irish Republic, is offering a postal savings account to UK investors, paying 6.5 per cent gross on savings of pounds 3,000, rising to 7 per cent gross on deposits above pounds 100,000. Call 01252 365801.

The Aaron Partnership, a firm of independent financial advisers, is offering two guides to investors. One discusses areas of potential fiscal change under the Labour government and what to do about it. The second guide has a dozen "model portfolios" for all types of investors. Both guides cost pounds 5 from The Aaron Partnership, Shelton House, High Street, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes.

British Motor Heritage, a classic car parts maker, is launching an insurance scheme for owners of old cars. Call 0345 573821.