12 Dec 2024
The 2024 Autumn Budget announcements made by the Government have caused many to rethink their pension strategy and whether these are still a relevant and useful long-term investment. You may be wondering, for example, whether contributing to a pension (either through work or privately) is the most tax-efficient strategy considering the alternatives – like stocks, […]
Read more...12 Dec 2024
Christmas is a busy time, but the start of a new year is always a good opportunity to take a closer look at your investment portfolio and prepare for the year ahead. The markets have been moving fast this year, and we think they will continue to see interesting trends in the next 12 months […]
Read more...12 Dec 2024
Retirement is a goal that is achievable for almost everyone, but not without a comprehensive plan and financial strategy. Without one, you could find that you run out of funds to support your lifestyle in later years when the prospect of returning to work is a lot less appealing. We always suggest that you start […]
Read more...6 Nov 2024
When it comes to investing, most people are aware of the two broad strategies that dominate the field: active and passive investing. Each has its own merits, risks, and considerations, but which is right for you? Active investing is a hands-on approach that involves buying and selling investments frequently in an attempt to outperform the […]
Read more...6 Nov 2024
Without having a clear financial plan for when you retire, there is a risk that you will run out of funds or face unexpected financial pressures in your post-work years. A good plan ensures that your retirement is comfortable, stress-free, and allows you to enjoy the things you have worked hard for. We recommend that […]
Read more...9 Oct 2024
When it comes to taking money from your pension, careful planning is essential to minimise your tax liability and maximise the longevity of your savings. Here is how we recommend you structure your pension drawdowns effectively. Use your tax-free lump sum wisely You can withdraw up to 25 per cent of your pension as a […]
Read more...9 Oct 2024
Venture capital trusts (VCTs) offer an opportunity to invest in smaller UK companies while benefiting from attractive tax reliefs. As an investor, you can receive income tax relief of up to 30 per cent on your investment, tax-free dividends, and no Capital Gains Tax when you sell your VCT shares. However, these benefits come with […]
Read more...18 Jun 2024
According to an Office for National Statistics (ONS) survey from May 2024, 55 per cent of adults across Great Britain reported an increase in their cost of living compared to April. The data showed that 42 per cent of people said their cost of living had remained the same, and the other three per cent […]
Read more...18 Jun 2024
Recent research from MetLife UK has revealed that over half (52 per cent) of working parents have no form of financial protection. This means should they find themselves needing to take time off work to look after their unwell child they will have no additional financial support. The data highlighted that of the individuals without […]
Read more...18 Jun 2024
The UK’s consumer confidence grew again in May, with people continuing to see a brighter future for their finances. This is according to the Consumer Confidence Index from researchers GfK. They saw a two-point increase from April to May regarding people’s feelings about their economic situation. The Consumer Confidence Index provides insight into how UK […]
Read more...13 May 2024
With the start of the next tax year a recent memory, many of us will be looking to find the best ISA deal to make the most of the new year’s £20,000 allowance. New rules mean that you can now put money into the same type of ISA with different providers, so you may be […]
Read more...13 May 2024
Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes have long been a cornerstone of retirement planning in the UK, offering retirees a guaranteed income based on their salary and years of service. However, the sustainability of these schemes is under scrutiny due to evolving regulatory landscapes and financial pressures. Challenges ahead for DB pensions Recent discussions by MPs […]
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