Those looking into planning their pension may be interested in news that Standard Life has revealed its UK pensions business improved by 42 per cent over the final quarter of 2009.

Demand increased in particular for the company's DIY-style self-invested personal pensions, which rose by 27 per cent by the end of the year.

Interest also increased in pension investment, with 36 per cent more self-invested personal pensions funds under management by the end of the year worth £11.8 billion.

There was also a short-term increase in pension outflows as customers looked to take retirement benefits ahead of the minimum age increasing from 50 to 55.

Standard Life saw sales improve in general during the fourth quarter, marking a return of investor confidence in equities.

UK sales increased by 38 per cent to £2.88 billion during the last quarter of 2009.

New business in life and pensions fell by ten per cent over the full year to £10.1 billion.