Insights

Insights

  • How to use the “gifting from income” rule to reduce your estate’s Inheritance Tax bill

    According to a Citywire report, forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) suggest the amount of Inheritance Tax (IHT) paid to HMRC will have increased by 11.6% in 2024/25 compared to 2023/24. This will mean that the total amount of IHT paid in the 2024/25 financial year will have [...]

    Published On: June 4, 2025
  • Why defining “financial freedom” could help you achieve it

    Achieving “financial freedom” is an aspiration many people have. Yet, it can mean different things to each person and is influenced by other lifestyle goals, so defining how to measure it for you could help you turn it into a reality. Securing financial freedom so you can retire with confidence [...]

    Published On: June 4, 2025
  • The Thursday Murder Club’s guide to retiring well

    Richard Osman’s books about the Thursday Murder Club, a team of detective octogenarians, have sold millions of copies, and the team are set to hit the small screen in August. But Elizabeth, Ron, Joyce, and Ibrahim aren’t just providing entertainment; they could offer valuable retirement lessons as well. But don’t [...]

    Published On: June 4, 2025
  • Guide: The compounding effect: How it could boost or harm your finances

    When a 1920s ad referred to compound interest as “the eighth wonder of the world”, the quote was left unattributed. But that didn’t stop it from becoming synonymous with the celebrated physicist, Albert Einstein. The link was likely intended to lend credibility to a statement that at first glance seems [...]

    Published On: May 22, 2025
  • Guide: How financial planning could help you answer essential “what if?” questions

    Financial planning is all about helping you to reach your life goals. Ultimately, the objective is for your wealth to allow you to achieve all the things you want to do now and in the future. That might be as simple as being able to relax and enjoy a comfortable [...]

    Published On: April 29, 2025
  • Your Spring Statement update – the key news from the chancellor’s speech

    After Rachel Reeves’ impactful first Budget in autumn 2024, you might have been concerned about the announcements that would be included in her Spring Statement on 26 March 2025. Reassuringly, the major headline from this year’s springtime fiscal event is that Reeves made few announcements that are likely to affect [...]

    Published On: March 26, 2025
  • Investment market update: February 2025

    After reading headlines throughout February, you might be expecting a gloomy investment outlook. Yet, despite threats of trade wars and uncertainty around the world, there were market highs. Read on to find out more about some of the factors that influenced investment markets. As investment markets are experiencing volatility, it’s [...]

    Published On: March 3, 2025
  • Thinking about investing in crypto? You need to be aware of these signs of a scam

    As some cryptocurrencies have delivered large returns in the past, you may be more likely to overlook red flags when you’re assessing an investment opportunity. Yet falling victim to a scam could leave you out of pocket and affect your mental wellbeing, so being aware of the warning signs could [...]

    Published On: March 3, 2025
  • Why ongoing financial advice could ease your mental load

    Handling finances is a part of life and something that most people do, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t stressful. Indeed, many people don’t feel confident making financial decisions, and financial advice could ease their mental load. Even when you’re relatively comfortable, managing your finances can be a cause of [...]

    Published On: March 3, 2025
  • The potential perils of accessing your pension at 55

    Reaching the minimum pension age and being able to access your retirement savings might mean new possibilities opening up. You may start thinking about giving up work, withdrawing a lump sum to pursue a goal, or using your pension to boost your regular income. It’s an exciting time, but it’s [...]

    Published On: March 3, 2025
  • How financial planning could help you overcome decision paralysis

    How long do you leave essential tasks on your to-do list? If you’ve put off tasks because they feel overwhelming, you’re not alone, but delays could be harmful. Read on to find out how financial planning may help you overcome decision paralysis. According to a January 2025 study from the [...]

    Published On: March 3, 2025
  • 6 estate planning lessons you could learn from the Murdoch family dispute

    The Murdoch family’s messy dispute over who will retain control of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire when he passes away has been grabbing headlines. While your affairs might not be in the spotlight, the case offers some useful insight into how to avoid family disputes. Following his second divorce in 1999, [...]

    Published On: March 3, 2025