News

Income protection demand is expected to grow, with 51% of financial advisers predicting an increase in 2025  44% of advisers anticipate rising demand for life insurance, as more people seek financial security   With economic uncertainty, more individuals are prioritising private health insurance and income protection  The demand for health insurance, income protection and life insurance […]

30% of Brits moved home in the past three years, motivated by lifestyle changes and space  One in six homeowners plan to relocate this year, with garages and gardens top priorities  Renters face affordability challenges, with many needing family support to buy their first home.  After a busy period in the housing market, there seems […]

13 million UK adults are sitting on £430bn in cash, potentially missing out on higher long-term investment returns  Many savers find investing too complex—74% need guidance on choosing the right investments   Holding cash is useful for short-term needs, but long-term investing can offer greater wealth-building potential  A recent report1 estimates 13 million UK adults are […]

IHT receipts topped £6.3bn in the eight months to December, a £600m increase on the same period the previous year  OBR predicts IHT receipts will continue their ascent, forecasting total receipts of £9.7bn a year by 2028/29  Factors including a rise in asset values and frozen thresholds are contributing to rising receipts  HM Revenue and […]

US Vice President JD Vance spelled it out in Munich – “there is a new sheriff in town” – and that sheriff’s policies are already having far-reaching consequences. While dealing with geopolitical uncertainties is clearly nothing new for long-term investors, Trump’s re-election has once again vividly highlighted the need for a sound investment approach based […]

Child Trust Funds still unclaimed  Some 728,000 people who have recently turned 18 have not claimed their Child Trust Fund, figures1 show, with the total value of unclaimed money amounting to £1.4bn. Many eligible young people do not know that their account exists, campaigners say. MPs are urging more action from HMRC to inform potential […]

Megatrends are powerful, long-term shifts, which are already changing the way we live and work  Today, trends such as AI, defence spending, changing energy supplies and demographics, are evident  While markets fluctuate daily, megatrends are shaping the future, creating exciting opportunities  Investing megatrends are powerful, long-term shifts expected to reshape industries, economies and investment markets […]

By Q3, the government is expected to provide implementation guidance on how pensions and death benefits will be treated  Any changes are likely to have the greatest impact on people with established estate plans  As proposals are not finalised, it’s wise to consider potential implications but await the final guidance before overhauling plans  Chancellor Rachel […]

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rates reverted on 1 April 2025 to pre-September 2022 levels  First-time buyers will have to start paying the tax on any home valued above £300,000  Non-first-time buyers will pay SDLT on properties valued above £125,000. From 1 April 2025, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rates revert to the thresholds prevailing […]

With the new tax year allowances in place, now is the time to make smart financial decisions  Taking time to review and refine your financial plan can help you stay on track for the future  Ensure you’re making the most of the opportunities available – your future self will thank you!  The beginning of the […]