AI and the global economy
The global economy is continuing to hold up, but growth remains uneven, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) The IMF explores the risks and opportunities surrounding AI – a market correction or the ability to ‘lift growth’ For investors, it’s important to understand where valuations, risks and opportunities sit as the AI story continues […]
In the news
A new survey highlights the growing influence of social media on first-time buyers, creating unrealistic expectations The findings underline the importance of an adviser’s role in helping clients balance aspiration with reality The Bank of England has warned that many homeowners will face higher mortgage repayments by the end of 2028 House envy – get […]
Could life insurance help your family meet a future IHT bill?
As a result of these changes, many families may need to think more carefully about any future tax bills Life insurance, particularly whole of life cover with no set term, is increasingly becoming a topic of conversation With the changes approaching, now could be a good time to review your estate planning arrangements From April […]
In the news
Over half (52%) of people are unaware that paying into a pension can reduce their taxable income By making additional pension contributions, some parents may be able to retain childcare support while growing savings Many retirees expect to help their grandchildren financially, but this could compromise long-term financial wellbeing Half are unaware pension contributions can reduce […]
Economic Review – October 2026
Banks will make what Healey described as a “temporary additional contribution to help fund household support” The UK economy performed better than expected, despite disruption from geopolitical conflict and higher energy costs Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures showed the employment rate rose to 75.3% in the three months to August Healey makes Budget pledge […]
Budget 2026
Rising costs remain a concern, with energy bill support and changes to household charges aimed at easing financial pressures The OBR has upgraded its 2026 growth forecast to 1.2% but lowered its 2027 projection to 1.0% The Your First Home scheme will receive £4.7bn in government-backed lending, aiming to help around 70,000 first-time buyers in […]
Rewarding conversations – why the smartest families are talking about inheritance now
A quarter of Britons aged 55 and over have never discussed their inheritance plans with their family The most forward-thinking families recognise inheritance conversations are not about death – they’re about clarity Professional guidance can make these conversations significantly easier – bringing structure, objectivity and expertise Progressive planning starts with open conversations. For many successful […]
Homebuying reforms set to tackle gazumping
One of the headline proposals is to make sales agreements legally binding much earlier to tackle gazumping Buyers or sellers who withdraw without a valid reason could face financial penalties, helping reduce failed transactions The reforms are expected to make homebuying faster and more transparent, saving first-time buyers an average of £650 The UK government […]
Residential Property Review – October 2026
Buyer demand weakened in September, although enquiry levels remain considerably stronger than they were six months ago Prime housing markets remain relatively resilient, with cash buyers accounting for more than half of transactions this year A new government-backed scheme aims to help first-time buyers purchase new-build homes with a 2.5% deposit Housing market softens The […]
Commercial Property Review – October 2026
Commercial Property Review – October 2026 Government funding is being directed towards revitalising high streets, bringing vacant properties back into productive community use The logistics sector continues to perform strongly, supported by investment demand and ongoing requirements for high-quality warehouse space Garden centres remain a resilient retail success story, attracting significant visitor numbers and contributing […]
