Don’t invest under the ‘finfluence’
People are increasingly seeking financial guidance on social media. While financial influencers – or ‘finfluencers’ – can be useful in raising awareness around financial matters, there is also a darker side to the growth of unregulated advisers. Social media age In the UK, more than one in four people use some combination of social media, […]
In the news – Home Finance
Significant gains for homeowners over 20 years Analysis reveals1 that UK homeowners who purchased their properties in the last 20 years have seen an average increase of £80,000 in value. In comparison, those who sold within the last year made an average gain of £65,000. Homes in high-value areas and commuter towns, including the Cotswolds […]
In the news
17 out of 21 sectors raised dividend payments in Q3 On a headline basis, total UK dividends in Q3 2024 fell to £25.6bn, an 8.1% decline, led by cuts in the mining sector (£2.6bn reduction in payouts)1. Stronger sterling, the impact of share buybacks and lower one-off special dividends also contributed to the reduction. Mining […]
‘Freshen-uppers’ the most desirable property type
Are you looking to move house in 2025? If so, a recent study1 has found that the most desirable property type for 49% of people is a ‘freshen-upper,’ with prospective buyers keen to personalise their new home with small scale improvements. The days of the full ‘fixer-upper’ property are fading, as time-poor purchasers increasing look to […]
Taking steps to avoid a retirement overspend
A fifth of respondents to a survey1 have consistently spent more than they expected to during their retirement so far. Moreover, 11% of the over-55s surveyed also said their overspending had occurred early on in their retirement. So, what were the biggest reasons behind the overspend? Cost of living (28%), housing costs, including mortgage payments […]
Dive into ’25 on top of key tax changes
A couple of months have passed since the Autumn Budget, a significant milestone for the Labour government. A comprehensive set of measures impacting individuals and businesses were announced, featuring £40bn in tax increases. Key announcements involved Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax, domicile status, VAT on private school fees, Stamp Duty and Income Tax thresholds. Inheritance […]
A few months left to maximise your State Pension
The government is encouraging individuals to take advantage of the opportunity to maximise their State Pension by filling gaps in their National Insurance (NI) records for the period between 6 April 2006 and 5 April 2018. By making voluntary contributions, people can potentially increase their future State Pension payments. This option is available until the […]
On your agenda – end of tax year planning
As we head into a new year with hope and optimism – it’s a good time to reflect on your personal financial circumstances. With the 2024/25 tax year drawing to a close, don’t leave it to the last minute to get your finances in order – that includes using your tax-efficient allowances. You might want […]
Nurture your financial wellbeing in 2025 – get your life plans in place with smart planning
As we step into 2025, now is the perfect time to set your financial plans in order. With changes on the horizon – like many pension pots becoming subject to inclusion in Inheritance Tax (IHT) calculations from April 2027 – it’s wise to prepare early. Financial wellbeing involves having a positive relationship with your money, […]
Preparing for the longevity megatrend in an uncertain world
As a new year dawns and we ponder what the next 12 months may hold for us as individuals and investors, one thing is for certain – some familiar challenges lie ahead. The International Monetary Fund (IMF)1 unveiled its latest economic assessment the week prior to the US election, proclaiming a period of ‘stable but […]