What is a megatrend?
Global megatrends are sustained, macroeconomic, transformative developments, that may alter the trajectory of the economy, business, society, cultures, and our lives, to define and shape our future world. The implications of these trends are diverse, presenting both opportunities and risks. Megatrends don’t exist in isolation. The interconnectivity of our world means trends overlap and investment […]
The Week in Review – 15 June
“We must do everything in our power to avoid a second peak of infection” Speaking at the Downing Street briefing last Wednesday, having confirmed the government’s five tests have been successfully satisfied, the Prime Minister announced plans to further ease lockdown restrictions in England. During the briefing he reiterated, “We must do everything in our […]
Women and pensions
Data from the 15th annual Women and Retirement Report1 suggests an increasing proportion of women are prepared for retirement, although it also highlights a continuing disparity in levels of pension savings compared to men. Record female participation The report shows the number of women contributing to a pension has risen by 15% in the last 15 […]
The Week in Review – 8 June
“Together we rise to fulfil the greatest shared endeavour of our lifetimes” Last week, the UK’s coronavirus death toll surpassed 40,000, a sombre milestone, and only the second country in the world, after the US, to register the grim statistic. Boris Johnson used the UK-hosted Global Vaccine Summit last week to urge world leaders to […]
The surveying scene
When buying a property, it is generally best to have a survey carried out, even if your mortgage lender is also conducting a valuation that involves an inspection. A thorough survey conducted on your behalf may reveal defects or possible costly problems you need to be aware of. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors is […]
Natural forces take their toll
The plight of uninsured householders affected by the Australian bushfires is a reminder of the importance of buildings and contents cover, even if securing it can be more difficult or costly when your home is at greater risk from natural forces such as storm, fire or flood. One victim did have their misfortune balanced out […]
The Week in Review – 1 June
“We can now take careful but deliberate steps to reopen our economy” On Friday, the Chancellor took to the Downing Street podium and confirmed that the Job Retention Scheme will conclude at the end of October. Rishi Sunak set out further details of how employers will have to start sharing the cost from August. In […]
Just 27% of new parents take out life insurance
New parents are spending more than ever preparing for their baby’s arrival, research1 has revealed. According to the study, the average spend has increased more than 18% since 2012 and now stands at £1,645. However, the study also discovered a concerning fact: despite this increase in spending, little more than a quarter (27%) of first-time parents […]
The Week in Review – 26 May
“We must renew our efforts” With another sunny bank holiday weekend approaching, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, took the opportunity at the Thursday briefing to remind the public, “We must renew our efforts…Over the course of this pandemic, people all across the UK have been making difficult but vital sacrifices for the greater good. So, let’s […]
Five million self-employed
Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show the number of self-employed in the UK has reached record levels, at five million people, which represents around 15% of all people in employment. If you are self-employed, you won’t benefit from auto enrolment, but you will still qualify for generous tax relief on any […]