Positioning portfolios in a protectionist world
US Vice President JD Vance spelled it out in Munich – “there is a new sheriff in town” – and that sheriff’s policies are already having far-reaching consequences. While dealing with geopolitical uncertainties is clearly nothing new for long-term investors, Trump’s re-election has once again vividly highlighted the need for a sound investment approach based […]
Money – In the news
Child Trust Funds still unclaimed Some 728,000 people who have recently turned 18 have not claimed their Child Trust Fund, figures1 show, with the total value of unclaimed money amounting to £1.4bn. Many eligible young people do not know that their account exists, campaigners say. MPs are urging more action from HMRC to inform potential […]
Investment megatrends for 2025 and beyond
Megatrends are powerful, long-term shifts, which are already changing the way we live and work Today, trends such as AI, defence spending, changing energy supplies and demographics, are evident While markets fluctuate daily, megatrends are shaping the future, creating exciting opportunities Investing megatrends are powerful, long-term shifts expected to reshape industries, economies and investment markets […]
Your pension and IHT
By Q3, the government is expected to provide implementation guidance on how pensions and death benefits will be treated Any changes are likely to have the greatest impact on people with established estate plans As proposals are not finalised, it’s wise to consider potential implications but await the final guidance before overhauling plans Chancellor Rachel […]
Kickstart the new tax year with confidence
With the new tax year allowances in place, now is the time to make smart financial decisions Taking time to review and refine your financial plan can help you stay on track for the future Ensure you’re making the most of the opportunities available – your future self will thank you! The beginning of the […]
Start the new tax year strong
The new tax year is a great opportunity to take charge of your finances and set yourself up for financial peace of mind by knowing you have a plan in place. By planning ahead and making the most of available allowances, you can optimise your wealth, reduce tax liabilities and work towards long-term financial security. […]
Time for a spring clean? How about ‘death cleaning’ your finances?
Could your finances benefit from a spring clean? You could take your cue from the Swedes. They believe in ‘döstädning,’ or ‘death cleaning.’ It sounds pessimistic, but it involves decluttering your belongings to reduce the burden you leave behind to loved ones. The philosophy gained international prominence through a 2018 book called The Gentle Art […]
Advised investors are ‘less vulnerable’
Investors who receive financial advice are four times less likely to be vulnerable than the general population, according to analysis1. The study looked at a cohort of more than 5,000 advised investors, assessing them using a psychometric financial wellbeing questionnaire. Designed by an in-house behavioural psychologist, the questionnaire was designed to find and evaluate indicators […]
Pension pulse – a reminder for ‘25
Aside from the change announced about bringing unused pension pots into IHT from April 2027, other announcements relating to pensions were thin on the ground during the Budget speech. The Chancellor confirmed that the State Pension will increase in line with average earnings, rising by 4.1% in April 2025. The new flat rate State Pension […]
Narrowing the gender protection gap
You’ve probably heard about the gender pay gap. You may even have heard about the gender pension gap. But did you know there is also a gender protection gap? Women are typically less likely than men to have insurance that protects them financially against the risk of being unable to work due to illness or […]
