A fundamental aspect of prudent financial planning.

Whether you’re nearing retirement or seeking to boost your current income, building a portfolio that generates steady returns is a fundamental aspect of prudent financial planning. For most investors, the aim is to create an income stream that is not only dependable but also flexible to changing financial circumstances.

As the 2025/26 tax year-end approaches on 5 April 2026, now is the time to review your finances to ensure you’ve maximised all available allowances and reliefs. Read our guide for 5 ways to maximise your year-end planning.

How to grow your savings beyond cash accounts.

Recent research shows a significant change in savings attitudes, with over half of UK Cash Individual Savings Account (ISA) holders willing to explore the investment market. For the 2025/26 tax year, this offers a notable chance for savers to grow their wealth beyond the returns from traditional cash accounts.

The inevitable shift in the approach to intergenerational wealth transfer.

Pension savers intending to pass on their retirement funds to loved ones received unwelcome news following announcements in the 2024 Budget. The Chancellor revealed that pensions will soon be subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT), marking a significant change from previous rules that usually protected pension funds from tax upon death.

Are young people’s expectations realistic?

Recent research highlights a notable generational gap in retirement expectations, with over one in five young people believing they will need an annual income of more than £100,000 for a comfortable retirement[1]. This figure, reported by 22% of those aged 18 to 34, sharply contrasts with the industry body Pensions UK’s Retirement Living Standards estimates that a single individual needs £43,900 to maintain a comfortable standard of living, excluding housing costs and Income Tax.

Planning, talking, and protecting more of your legacy from tax and disputes.

Death and money are two of life’s unavoidable realities, yet they remain subjects many of us hesitate to discuss. This reluctance often extends to inheritance, a topic filled with discomfort for many families. The consequence of this silence is significant, as an increasing number of estates are affected by Inheritance Tax (IHT), and disputes over Wills are becoming more common in UK courts.

Why market timing rarely works – and why long‑term consistency matters.

Some people delay investing because they’re waiting for “the right moment.” The idea of buying when prices are low and selling when they’re high seems sensible in theory, but in practice, it’s very difficult to perform. Even experienced professionals struggle to predict short-term market movements accurately, and headlines or emotions can easily cloud judgment. Meanwhile, cash sitting on the sidelines loses potential for compounding over time, which is one

Key financial and lifestyle checks to get ready for life after work.

Reaching the final stage of your working life is a significant milestone, often bringing a mix of excitement and uncertainty as routines shift and new priorities come into focus. It’s a chance to redefine how you spend your time, clarify what matters most, and set expectations for the years ahead.

How trusts can assist in organising family wealth and safeguarding future generations.

Trusts have been utilised for centuries to manage and safeguard wealth, yet they remain among the least understood aspects of estate planning. Although often seen as complex or reserved for the ultra-wealthy, a trust is simply a legal arrangement that separates ownership from control for a beneficiary’s benefit. When properly structured, trusts can regulate how assets are utilised, protect against creditors and disputes, avoid probate for enhanced privacy

How can they assist investors in expanding their portfolios?

Dividends have long been a vital part of the investment process. For many investors, dividends help minimise portfolio volatility, especially during uncertain markets, and they can indicate management’s confidence in a company’s financial health.

How can careful planning help you safeguard more of your wealth for future generations?

Inheritance Tax (IHT) can significantly affect your estate’s worth. From April to August 2025, HM Revenue & Customs collected £3.7 billion in IHT, which is £0.2 billion more than the same period last year[1]. Although the current rules may seem complicated, there are legitimate and effective ways to reduce the tax your loved ones might have to pay after your death.

Why understanding your numbers early can greatly influence your future lifestyle.

As life expectancy increases, retirement periods are lengthening, making careful and proactive planning vital. For many people, retiring by 2025 could mean funding 25 to 30 years without a regular income. Such an extended period presents unique challenges, including inflation, market fluctuations, healthcare costs, and changing lifestyle needs, all of which demand a well-structured strategy. Building a diversified portfolio, stress-testing withdrawal rates, and aligning investments with your risk tolerance