Stock markets have been falling, mortgage rates are still skyrocketing, and high inflation is eroding people's savings.
There is a lot of gloom in the world, but one financial instrument that many people had pretty much written off now appears much more alluring than it did a year or two ago.
It is predicted that many more people may now consider using some of their retirement funds to buy an annuity
A product that converts a person's pension savings into an income for life.
Annuity rates have increased by 44% in only one year, according to new data released this week, and are currently at their highest levels since early 2009.
Purchasing an annuity has long been a common way to utilise your pension fund.