A Defensive Approach to Growth: Hilbert’s FTSE 100 EW45 Super Defensive Autocall Plan – Issue 26 Explained

In today’s prolonged low-interest environment, many investors are exploring alternatives that offer the potential for steady growth while maintaining a clear risk-management structure. With traditional savings producing minimal returns and equity markets remaining unpredictable, defined-outcome investments continue to gain momentum among advisers and their clients.

Hilbert Investment Solutions FTSE 100 EW45 Super Defensive Annual Autocall Plan – Issue 26 is designed to deliver potential fixed growth, capital protection features, and annual early-maturity opportunities. Structured for both income-focused and growth-minded investors, the plan offers a transparent and disciplined way to access the UK equity market heading into 2026.

Introduction

Structured products can provide a compelling way to participate in stock market performance while managing downside risk. The FTSE 100 EW45 Super Defensive Annual Autocall Plan – Issue 26 from Hilbert Investment Solutions is built to offer:

• Potential fixed annual growth
• Defined capital protection features
• Multiple kick-out (early maturity) opportunities
• A rules-based, risk-managed approach to UK equity exposure

This article covers:

• How the plan works
• Key investment objectives
• Growth potential and capital protection
• Main risks and considerations
• Which clients the plan may be suitable for

Plan Overview

Plan Name: FTSE 100 EW45 Super Defensive Annual Autocall Plan – Issue 26

Plan Manager / Administrator / Custodian: Hilbert Investment Solutions (custody via Bank of New York Mellon)

Issuer / Counterparty Bank: SG Issuer / Société Générale

Underlying Asset: FTSE 100 Equally Weighted 45 Point Decrement Index (FTSE 100 EW45)

Investment Term and Kick-Out Features

The plan runs for a maximum of 10 years, with annual opportunities for early maturity from 19 January 2029 onward.

If, on any Annual Measurement Date, the underlying index meets or exceeds the relevant Reference Level:

• The plan matures early (kicks out)
• Investors receive the Fixed Growth Return for that year
• The original capital is repaid (less any agreed adviser fees or withdrawals)

Full kick-out rules and Measurement Dates are available in the Plan Brochure.

Potential Fixed Growth Return

Investors may receive:

8% fixed growth per annum

From the third anniversary onward, or at the Final Valuation Date, if the Closing Level of the FTSE 100 EW45 meets or exceeds the Reference Level.

This structure provides:

• Predictable fixed growth potential
• A clear rules-based return mechanism
• A defensive approach linked to index performance

Capital Protection and Repayment Structure

If no early maturity occurs, capital protection applies at the end of the term.

• If the Final Level ≥ 50% of the Opening Level: Full repayment of original capital (less agreed fees)
• If the Final Level < 50% of the Opening Level: Repayment is reduced in line with the fall in the index

Example:

If the index falls 75%, repayment is also reduced by 75%, meaning an investor receives 25% of the original investment.

Key Risks to Consider

As with all structured products, risks remain.

Market Risk

Returns and capital repayment depend on the performance of the FTSE 100 EW45, including the impact of its fixed decrement.

Counterparty Risk

Repayment depends on the financial strength of SG Issuer / Société Générale throughout the investment term.

Advisers should evaluate:

• Current market conditions affecting the FTSE 100 EW45
• Counterparty creditworthiness and stability
• Client risk tolerance, time horizon, and liquidity needs

Full risk details are provided in the Plan Brochure and should be reviewed carefully.

Who Might This Plan Suit?

This plan may appeal to:

• Investors seeking structured UK equity exposure with fixed-growth potential
• Clients who want capital protection features and annual kick-out opportunities
• Individuals comfortable with conditional returns based on index performance
• Those pursuing long-term, risk-managed growth strategies
• Investors seeking diversification within a wider portfolio

This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered personal financial advice.

Important Dates

• ISA Transfer Deadline: 12 January 2026
• Offer Closes: 16 January 2026
• Strike Date: 19 January 2026
  

Final Thoughts

Hilbert’s FTSE 100 EW45 Super Defensive Annual Autocall Plan – Issue 26 combines structured growth potential, capital protection features, and annual early-maturity opportunities. For advisers aiming to broaden client portfolios with defined-outcome, risk-managed solutions, this plan offers a clear and disciplined approach to UK market participation.

To learn more, download the Plan Brochure or contact the Hilbert team at hilbert@hilbert-is.com

Disclaimer:

Structured products are complex and not suitable for everyone. Before making any investment decision you should read the Key Information Document (KID) and the brochure in full, so that you understand how the product works, the associated risks, the costs and the possible outcomes.

Hilbert does not provide investment or tax advice. If you are unsure whether an investment is right for you, you should seek professional financial advice. Hilbert’s products are available via a regulated platform.

Your capital is at risk and you may lose some or all of the money you invest. Early encashment may result in a return lower than the amount invested. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change.