9th July 2024

Brighter outlook for global economy as inflation eases 

At times in the past two years, it seemed to some that inflation would never come down. Double-digit inflation became routine. Now, with price rises back near normal levels, optimism is returning to financial markets.  Disinflation diaries  Inflation has fallen well below the multi-decade highs witnessed in many countries since 2022. In response, central banks […]

Positive news for UK dividends, but will it continue?

Dividend investors have been rewarded so far in 2024, with payouts from UK shares rising by 4.9% in the first three months of the year compared with the same period in 20231.  The data tracks dividend payouts from 900 UK companies and comes as good news for income seekers. Computershare upgraded their headline forecast from […]

2nd July 2024

Get mortgage-ready this summer 

Do you have hopes to buy? Whether you’re looking to get on, move up or down the ladder, your property dreams are possible with a little preparation. Here’s how you can get yourself mortgage-ready this summer.  Check your credit score  Lenders will inspect your credit report for evidence that you can meet the mortgage repayments. […]

Brighter days ahead

This year, summer brings hope of a better financial future as inflationary pressures recede and the economy continues to grow. It could therefore be an ideal opportunity to prioritise a range of pension-related issues in order to ensure brighter days do lie ahead.  Pension withdrawals up  Many people have faced significant financial challenges over the […]

25th June 2024

Get the right house value with a survey

Nobody wants to pay too much for their home. During the home buying process, there are many causes of stress. Making sure you don’t overpay doesn’t need to be one. That’s because getting the right survey can give you peace of mind that you are paying a fair price.  What is a survey?  A survey […]

18th June 2024

Adopting an Olympic mindset when investing

The countdown is well and truly underway to this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris when we are all sure to be watching in awe as the world’s leading elite athletes showcase their talents. And investors could boost their chances of success by emulating an Olympian’s mindset and thereby improving their financial wellbeing.  Attributes […]

Most over 55s have no plans to downsize

Only one in seven non-retired homeowners over 55 plan to downsize after they stop working, a new study1 suggests.  In a poll of 2,000 adults over the age of 55, half said they plan on staying in their current home after they retire. For those aged 71 to 75, the figure is 68%.  No hassle, […]

11th June 2024

AI & scams – don’t get caught out

Although there is much excitement surrounding the advent and development of artificial intelligence (AI), there are some serious risks involved – namely, the prevalence of scams that are becoming increasingly sophisticated.   Types of scams   There are a few main scams to be aware of:  Who is at threat?  Everyone risks falling victim to […]

Reaching self-actualisation in retirement

To enjoy a financially secure retirement, it’s important to spend time doing some in-depth thinking well in advance to determine your goals and requirements in order to achieve the lifestyle you dream of. You need a robust financial plan.  When thinking about the income you’ll need in retirement, many people find it helpful to think […]

4th June 2024

Have you got your mortgage covered?

Taking out life insurance may not be a legal requirement if you have a mortgage, but it certainly is sensible to have.  The benefits  Not only does life insurance provide financial security in a hypothetical future, but it may also offer you some peace of mind knowing that your loved ones would be able to […]