New year, new home?
If you’re hoping to move home in 2026, get your finances in good shape first Remember to factor in moving costs, such as solicitor fees, surveys, removals and Stamp Duty Take stock of possessions, create a room plan and keep track of boxes and their contents. If you’re hoping to make a move in 2026, here are some top tips to help you plan ahead and beat […]
Investing in 2026: Opportunity ahead in a changing world?
Investors approach 2026 cautiously as inflation, trade tensions and geopolitical risks continue to shape global market conditions The IMF predicts global growth of 3.1% this year, but some regions and sectors may outperform others Diversification will be key amid 2026’s evolving landscape – make sure to balance suitability with long-term growth opportunities After a year of uncertainty, with […]
House Prices – what to expect in 2026 and beyond
Regional growth will be uneven, with the strongest price rises expected in more affordable northern regions Early years of low growth may help first-time buyers before the market strengthens from 2027 onward Buy-to-let activity may rise, but regulation and taxation will continue to limit overall investor appetite As 2026 begins, many homeowners and would-be movers […]
Looking ahead: A new year, a clear plan
As 2026 begins, thoughtful financial planning remains essential for navigating change and securing long-term goals. Reviewing investments, tax strategies and pensions ensures your financial plans stay aligned with changing circumstances. Now is the perfect time to take stock and start the year with a clear financial plan. We’d like to take a moment to thank you for your […]
Planning with purpose in 2026
Providing for family is the strongest motivator for UK adults when it comes to financial planning. Find a balance between what you value, what you need and what gives you a sense of purpose. Mental wellbeing plays a vital role in financial confidence – we’re here to help you define your financial purpose. As we welcome 2026, it’s the […]
It’s that time of year again – consider your end of tax year planning
Consider using ISA and pension allowances before they reset to maximise long-term, tax-efficient growth Reviewing CGT, dividend and gifting allowances now could reduce unnecessary tax liabilities Early planning helps protect wealth, improve cash flow and avoid rushed decisions before the tax year ends As the end of the 2025/26 tax year approaches, it’s the ideal time to ensure you’re making the most of tax-efficient […]
FTBs looking to buy in cities
First-time buyers increasingly prefer city living, reversing the pandemic’s ‘race for space’ Dundee, Edinburgh and Doncaster show the largest rises in FTB city enquiries London demand has dipped, highlighting the impact of high house prices on affordability More FTBs are setting their sights on city living, new data reveals1. The analysis compared FTB enquiries between January and […]
Personal pension age change delays access to savings
From April 2028, pension access rises to 57, impacting those born after April 1973 Early pension access will be limited to those with ill health or protected pension ages Many are worried about the upcoming change, so seek advice and review your plans A two-year increase in the normal minimum pension age could impact retirement planning for […]
Owning a home offers significant savings opportunities
Owning a home can create significant long-term savings when compared with renting Renters in London and Bristol are missing out the most on savings opportunities Despite challenges, many younger renters are optimistic about owning their first home Research1 has compared the average cost of buying versus renting, highlighting the investment opportunities that homeowning can offer. By […]
When gifts backfire
Gifting can reduce IHT, but poor record-keeping could cause the exemption to be rejected Gifts with reservation (e.g. continuing to benefit from gifted assets) often trigger unexpected IHT bills With frozen thresholds and pensions joining IHT, careful planning is more important than ever With pensions set to join the list of assets liable for IHT, for many families, […]