Insights

Insights

  • Premium Bonds prize rate hits 15-year high, but are they worth it?

    There are now more chances to win through Premium Bonds as the prize rate reaches a 15-year high. So, what are your odds of becoming a millionaire overnight and are they worth it? Read on to find out. Premium Bonds were first introduced in 1956 to encourage more people to [...]

    Published On: March 7, 2023
  • 5 practical things to check as part of a financial midlife MOT

    Rishi Sunak is reportedly drawing up plans to provide a “midlife MOT” to assess the financial health of workers and retirees. Taking stock of your finances in your 40s and 50s could lead to greater financial freedom in the future. Read on to discover five initial steps you can take [...]

    Published On: March 7, 2023
  • Soaring inflation drives up retirement costs by almost 20% in just a year

    High inflation means retirees could need to increase their budget by almost 20% to maintain the same lifestyle, research suggests. If you’re drawing an income from your pension, it’s vital you understand whether withdrawing more is sustainable. The UK experienced high inflation throughout much of 2022, and inflation remains above [...]

    Published On: March 7, 2023
  • Your guide to pension consolidation: The pros and cons you need to know

    Do you have multiple pensions? It could make it difficult to manage your pension savings during your working life and when you retire. In some cases, consolidating them could be beneficial. This guide explains what you need to know about transferring your pension savings, so you have fewer pots to [...]

    Published On: February 28, 2023
  • The essential guide to ISAs

    ISAs have been around for more than two decades, but they’ve changed significantly since they were first introduced. This guide can help you understand why using an ISA to save or invest could be a valuable part of your financial plan. Read the guide to find out: Why ISAs are [...]

    Published On: February 2, 2023
  • The 2022/23 end of tax year guide: 7 allowances to make use of before 5 April 2023

    The 2022/23 tax year ends on Wednesday 5 April. After this date, many allowances reset, and it could be your last chance to use some of them. Allowances can help your money go further by reducing your tax liability. Reviewing your finances before the deadline could help you identify some [...]

    Published On: December 20, 2022
  • Investment market update: November 2022

    Globally, inflation and recession risks continued to affect markets in November. Head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva suggested that inflation could be nearing its peak. However, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) urged central banks around the world to keep raising interest rates to [...]

    Published On: December 16, 2022
  • 5 of the best places to travel to in 2023 according to Lonely Planet

    Travel experts Lonely Planet have released their “Best in Travel” list for 2023. Split across five categories – eat, journey, unwind, connect, and learn – the organisation named 30 countries, cities, and experiences to add to your bucket list.  From nearby cities (two UK destinations made it onto the [...]

    Published On: December 16, 2022
  • Experts forecast a recession in 2023. Here’s why and what it means for your investments

    Experts are predicting that the UK will face a recession in 2023. While it can be tempting to react to this news by changing your investment strategy, sticking to your long-term plan makes sense for most investors. Read on to find out why. Several factors are contributing to economic [...]

    Published On: December 16, 2022
  • 4 vital things you should discuss when naming a Lasting Power of Attorney

    A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) gives someone you trust the ability to make decisions on your behalf if you cannot.  This can ensure there’s someone taking care of your affairs and advocating on your behalf if you’re ill or lose mental capacity. Naming an LPA is an important [...]

    Published On: December 16, 2022
  • Do you have a gap in your National Insurance record? Checking now could boost your State Pension

    The rules around filling in a gap in your National Insurance (NI) record are changing. From 5 April 2023, you will only be able to make voluntary contributions for the past six years. If you have gaps in your record, filling them in now could boost your retirement income.  [...]

    Published On: December 16, 2022
  • After the risk of pensions collapsing made headlines, here’s how your retirement savings are protected

    Recently, you may have read headlines about how pension funds were close to collapsing. Naturally, you may be worried about your retirement savings and what protection is in place. Read on to find out.  In September, former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng delivered a mini-Budget that included aggressive tax cuts. It [...]

    Published On: December 16, 2022