Survey highlights prevailing uncertainty among those on the cusp of retirement  A recent study reveals that a considerable proportion of UK adults, including a significant number nearing retirement, find themselves in a quandary regarding their State Pension entitlements and the commencement of their payments [1]. The research underscores that 31% of Generation X individuals (ages 42-57) are in two minds about their retirement timing, in stark contrast to 19% of Baby Boomers (born between 1948 to 1964) and the older cohort (58 years and above). Moreover, a notable 24% of UK adults confess ..read more

Contributing additional amounts to your pension could stand to benefit you significantly in the long term Recent research findings have brought to light a striking observation: fewer than 10% of adults in the UK contribute occasional lump sums to their pensions[1]. This statistic is particularly surprising given that such contributions could significantly amplify one’s retirement savings. Analysis reveals that even modest lump sum investments can significantly increase the overall size of one’s pension pot due to the power of compound growth over time. For example, starting with an annual sala ..read more

Maintaining an investment stance centred on the potential for long-term growth For investors, the perennial question of whether to ‘stick or twist’ with their current investments or pivot towards the perceived safety of cash is fundamental. Numerous factors influence this decision, which plays a pivotal role in the journey towards financial prosperity. The appeal of cash, particularly in uncertain times, is clear; however, a judicious choice to remain invested frequently emerges as the more astute strategy. The case for long-term investment The argument for maintaining an investment stance cen ..read more

How to pass on assets to the next generation to secure their future for tomorrow Inheritance Tax (IHT) represents a significant consideration for anyone looking to pass on assets to the next generation. As of the 2024/25 tax year, IHT incurs a 40% charge on the portion of an estate exceeding the nil rate band of £325,000, excluding transfers to a spouse or registered civil partner. Additionally, the introduction of the main residence allowance in 2017, offering an extra £175,000 relief when a primary residence is bequeathed to direct descendants or where an individual has moved into a care hom ..read more

Why savers and investors now have a more flexible approach Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) offer a versatile and tax-efficient way to save for the future, whether for yourself, your children or grandchildren. Now that we have entered the new financial year, on 6 April 2024, significant changes to ISAs have been introduced. Since 6 April, savers and investors have had a more flexible approach to using their ISA allowance. For the first time, individuals can open multiple accounts of the same type of ISA within a single tax year, from 6 April one year to 5 April the next, provided they do not ..read more

Survey highlights prevailing uncertainty among those on the cusp of retirement A recent study reveals that a considerable proportion of UK adults, including a significant number nearing retirement, find themselves in a quandary regarding their State Pension entitlements and the commencement of their payments [1]. The research underscores that 31% of Generation X individuals (ages 42-57) are in two minds about their retirement timing, in stark contrast to 19% of Baby Boomers (born between 1948 to 1964) and the older cohort (58 years and above). Moreover, a notable 24% of UK adults confess to be ..read more

Contributing additional amounts to your pension could stand to benefit you significantly in the long term Recent research findings have brought to light a striking observation: fewer than 10% of adults in the UK contribute occasional lump sums to their pensions[1]. This statistic is particularly surprising given that such contributions could significantly amplify one’s retirement savings. Analysis reveals that even modest lump sum investments can significantly increase the overall size of one’s pension pot due to the power of compound growth over time. For example, starting with an annual sala ..read more

Maintaining an investment stance centred on the potential for long-term growth For investors, the perennial question of whether to ‘stick or twist’ with their current investments or pivot towards the perceived safety of cash is fundamental. Numerous factors influence this decision, which plays a pivotal role in the journey towards financial prosperity. The appeal of cash, particularly in uncertain times, is clear; however, a judicious choice to remain invested frequently emerges as the more astute strategy. The case for long-term investment The argument for maintaining an investment stance cen ..read more

New tax year, new you? Maximise your pension savings this new tax year As we embark on the new tax year, it presents an opportune moment to review your pension savings strategy, setting a solid foundation for future financial stability. Early attention to your private pension at the onset of the fiscal year is not just about cultivating beneficial saving habits; it’s also about ensuring you fully exploit the benefits and allowances available to you.  Delaying until the end of the tax year might seem convenient, yet acting early and promptly in this new tax year allows your investments mor ..read more

Why savers and investors now have a more flexible approach Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) offer a versatile and tax-efficient way to save for the future, whether for yourself, your children or grandchildren. Now that we have entered the new financial year, on 6 April 2024, significant changes to ISAs have been introduced.  Since 6 April, savers and investors have had a more flexible approach to using their ISA allowance. For the first time, individuals can open multiple accounts of the same type of ISA within a single tax year, from 6 April one year to 5 April the next, provided they ..read more