Latest News

• The Gift Of Giving

  1 week ago

  In the unfortunate event of one’s passing, there’s a possibility that HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) may levy an Inheritance Tax (IHT) bill on the deceased’s estate. The estate’s total value determines the sum due after deducting any debts and applying all possible thresholds. Two thresholds that come into play are the nil rate band (NRB) and the residence nil rate band (RNRB). [...]

• The £26 Billion Lost Pension Maze

  1 week ago

  Navigating the world of pensions can be challenging, particularly when you’ve participated in various schemes or shifted jobs throughout your working life. Pension plans may close, merge or change names as time progresses, adding to the complexity. It might have been rebranded even if you recall your scheme’s original name. [...]

• Pension Puzzle

  1 week ago

  A recent study has identified an alarming discrepancy in financial confidence between genders. It shows that women are 33% more likely to confess to a lack of understanding about their pension operations[1]. This gap in comprehension could be a potential reason why some women seem less inclined to engage with pivotal financial products that promise better future outcomes. [...]

• Young Visionaries Eye Early Retirement

  2 weeks ago

  The dream of early retirement is alive and well among the younger generation. Still, to realise this dream, they must prepare to bolster their pension savings by an estimated 15%. A recent study has revealed that approximately one-fifth (17%) of youthful savers aged between 22 and 32 aspire to retire before reaching 60. Intriguingly, 70% anticipate retiring before the present State Pension age of 67[1]. [...]

• Health Consciousness Divide

  2 weeks ago

  Living a healthy lifestyle over a prolonged period significantly reduces the risk of developing various diseases as we age. This concept is rooted in the idea that our daily habits and behaviours profoundly impact our long-term health outcomes. [...]

• Jeopardising Financial Stability

  2 weeks ago

  Securing your family’s financial future is a multifaceted responsibility beyond merely accumulating savings and making long-term investments. It encompasses the creation of a comprehensive plan that ensures the wellbeing of your loved ones, even in the face of unexpected adversities. [...]

• Planning for an early retirement

  3 weeks ago

  Early retirement typically signifies reaching financial autonomy before the statutory pension age, usually in the mid-60s. In the United Kingdom, retirees can begin drawing their State Pension at age 66. However, this retirement benchmark is set to increase to age 67 by 6 April 2028. [...]

• The Impact Of Disability On Financial Planning

  3 weeks ago

  Disability significantly affects the financial planning of nearly a third of disabled individuals. This was the key finding of a report that highlighted the additional financial burdens people with disabilities in society suffer. [...]

• Harnessing The Power Of Green Pensions

  3 weeks ago

  Over recent years, our comprehension of the climate crisis has significantly transformed. Countries and organisations are becoming increasingly ambitious with their net zero targets, while many individuals are making lifestyle alterations to reduce their household carbon emissions. However, some remain oblivious that pensions represent one of our most potent tools for making substantial strides towards net zero. [...]

• Pre-Year-End Tax Planning

  4 weeks ago

  As we approach the end of the current tax year on 5 April 2024, it’s an opportune moment to examine both your personal and business finances to ensure they are structured to optimise your tax efficiency. Despite the ongoing freeze on many tax rates and thresholds, numerous strategies remain for organising your financial matters tax-efficiently. [...]

• Wealth Accumulation

  4 weeks ago

  Diversifying your portfolio places you in an advantageous position to seize opportunities across various investments as they emerge. This strategy usually results in a smoother investment journey. But how? The answer lies in the balancing act that diversification encourages. Investments that appreciate in value can offset those that are underperforming. [...]

• What Will Your Legacy Look Like?

  4 weeks ago

  Once a concern only for the very affluent, Inheritance Tax (IHT) is now an issue for many ordinary families, who may find themselves handing over an unprecedented portion of their estates to the taxman. This shift results from years of house price growth, inflation and stagnant tax thresholds. The Office for Budget Responsibility anticipates that IHT will bring in £7.2 billion in the fiscal year 2023/24. [...]