Clerical Medical Investment (CMI), historically a prominent player in the UK financial services industry, had a presence in the Netherlands, primarily focused on offering unit-linked investment products and pensions. While the brand itself may not be actively marketed in the Netherlands today under that specific name, its legacy persists through the policies and investments held by Dutch residents.
CMI’s entry into the Dutch market, like many other foreign insurers and investment firms, was driven by the desire to tap into a sophisticated and relatively affluent population seeking diverse investment options. Unit-linked products, in particular, gained popularity because they combined life insurance with investment opportunities in a range of underlying funds. This allowed Dutch consumers to potentially benefit from market growth while also securing a death benefit for their beneficiaries.
However, the sale of unit-linked products in the Netherlands, including those offered by CMI, wasn’t without controversy. Concerns arose about the complexity of the products, the level of fees and charges, and the transparency regarding the allocation of premiums between insurance and investment components. These concerns mirrored similar issues that plagued the unit-linked market in the UK and other European countries.
As a result of increased regulatory scrutiny and consumer awareness, the Dutch market saw significant changes in the way investment products were sold and structured. There was a greater emphasis on transparency, fee disclosure, and suitability assessments to ensure that products aligned with the individual needs and risk profiles of investors.
Today, policies originally sold by CMI in the Netherlands are typically managed by the acquiring company or a successor entity. Legal & General acquired CMI in 2008, and policies may now be administered and managed under the Legal & General brand or another entity depending on specific circumstances. Dutch policyholders retain their existing contractual rights and obligations, although the specific terms and conditions vary depending on the individual policy.
For Dutch residents who hold or previously held policies from CMI, it’s crucial to understand the current status of their investment, including the underlying funds, associated fees, and options for accessing their funds. Contacting Legal & General or the relevant administrator is the best way to obtain up-to-date information and manage their investment effectively. Furthermore, seeking independent financial advice can help individuals make informed decisions about their legacy CMI policies in light of their current financial circumstances and investment goals.