4th November 2025

Selling through the seasons

Buyers can be swayed by seasonal features depending on when they’re buying  Winter buyers prioritise warmth, so would pay more for a fireplace and insulation  Summer buyers are drawn to gardens, pools and air conditioning when purchasing  Thinking of putting your home on the market? The time of year you do it could affect how well your […]

Online fraudsters target UK investors

Many UK investors use social media to help make their financial decisions   To protect investors from misleading advice, the FCA is taking decisive action  Professional guidance helps investors make safe, informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes  Social media finfluencers. Internet searches. AI chatbots. A growing number of people in the UK are turning to unregulated – […]

28th October 2025

Adapting to transformation – investing through global change

Investors face rapid change due to inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, AI and the energy transition  IMF forecasts global growth of 3% in 2025, but warns of persistent downside risks  Agility, diversification and long-term structural alignment are vital to manage risk and capture growth  Adapting to transformation – investing through global change  As we enter the final […]

21st October 2025

In the news

A third of people expecting £300k+ inheritance don’t fully understand IHT, risking lost family wealth   Only 20% plan lifetime transfers, 22% avoid inheritance discussions and 28% don’t understand planning options  UK dividends hit £35.1bn in Q2, with banks and Rolls-Royce contributing to underlying growth  People don’t understand IHT  Research1 shows there’s a significant knowledge gap […]

Mortgage Guarantee Scheme launched

The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is now permanently available across the UK  Lenders are insured against losses, supporting availability of high LTV mortgages  When borrowing at higher loan-to-value levels, it’s important to tread carefully  The government’s new Mortgage Guarantee Scheme became permanently available in July 2025.  The scheme, which was part of Labour’s election manifesto, aims […]

Financial decisions – put your best foot forward

Going outdoors for an energising walk can help bring clarity when making major financial decisions  Focus on your long-term goals and make sure your decisions are aligned with your risk profile  Professional guidance can help you understand what’s right for you and your circumstances  Perplexed by your pension? Seeking investment inspiration? Then why not head […]

14th October 2025

Autumn housing market outlook

Buyers gain negotiating power with more homes available and improving mortgage affordability  Sellers must adopt competitive pricing strategies as overpriced homes risk being overlooked  Modest price growth is expected, but steady activity could sustain momentum through autumn  As summer fades, the UK housing market moves into autumn with steady momentum. A high volume of homes […]

Future proofing your finances this autumn

Autumn offers a chance to take stock and review your pensions, savings and investments   Establishing robust financial foundations is essential in times of economic uncertainty and elevated living costs  To feel confident about your financial future, build short-term resilience and strengthen long-term security  As the days shorten and the evenings draw in, autumn is a […]

Autumn Budget – forward thinking

The Autumn Budget may bring tax changes affecting pensions, IHT, savings and investments  Speculation is high, but proactive planning can strengthen financial resilience ahead of announcements  Reviewing contributions, allowances and inheritance strategies ensures you’re prepared for future changes  As the Autumn Budget approaches, speculation is growing about what the Chancellor may announce.  The National Institute […]

7th October 2025

Homing in on the mortgage challenges facing gig workers

76% of UK gig workers face mortgage and loan application rejections despite good credit  Traditional credit systems don’t reflect gig workers’ multiple income sources  Expert guidance helps gig workers improve mortgage approval odds by validating diverse income  Variable income streams. Multiple employers. Seasonal side hustles. This is business as usual for gig economy workers, freelancers […]