Articles of interest

Have you lost track of your pension pots?
Step-by-step guide to help you reclaim your lost pensions.
It is easier than many people realise to lose track of an old pension pot. Changes and milestones in life, such as starting new jobs, moving houses or even changing your name, can make it challenging to keep track of your retirement savings.

The ‘secret’ to easing an Inheritance Tax burden
A practical solution to a challenge many families could face.
When planning your legacy, it’s essential to understand how Inheritance Tax (IHT) may impact what you leave behind for your loved ones. IHT is often seen as a burden that can reduce the value of your estate, leading to financial challenges for your family. Without careful planning, a substantial portion of your hard-earned wealth might end up with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) instead of benefiting those you care for

Closing the gender gap in investing
Young women need to feel more confident about their financial futures.
When it comes to investing, young women are noticeably lagging behind their male peers. Recent data paints a stark picture, revealing that only one-third (34%) of women aged 18-24 are investing their money outside of pensions[1]. By contrast, nearly two-thirds (64%) of young men in the same age group are choosing to invest, highlighting a significant gender imbalance in financial engagement at an early age.

What to consider when taking tax-free cash
Make a more informed decision about how best to utilise your pension savings.
Making the most of your pension savings requires understanding your options and planning carefully for the future. If you have a defined contribution pension, a key feature to consider is the ability to withdraw tax-free money. This can provide a valuable financial boost, whether you plan to use it for immediate expenses, long-term investments or as a safety net in retirement.

Bridging the financial gap across generations
Why planning, talking and taking action now can secure your family’s future.
There is rarely a perfect moment to discuss finances, particularly with older relatives. It’s a sensitive topic, often accompanied by emotions and discomfort. However, avoiding these conversations can lead to unnecessary stress and uncertainty in the future. Financial strains, such as unexpected medical bills or inadequate retirement savings, can impose a heavy burden on families, not just emotionally but also practically.

Asset allocation
Getting the right blend of investment types in your portfolio.
Growing your wealth and securing your financial future requires more than saving money; it necessitates careful planning and informed decision-making. A key element in this process is determining how to invest your funds. Among the various strategies available, asset allocation stands out as one of the most crucial. This strategy involves dividing your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, property and cash, to effectively balance risk and

Is it time for a financial MOT?
Helping you secure a smoother ride towards a brighter future.
Consider your finances as a well-loved car that you’ve depended on for years. It helps you reach your destinations, but like any trusted vehicle, it requires regular care and attention. Just as an annual service keeps your car running smoothly and safely, a financial check-up ensures that your money matters are functioning at their best and moving in the right direction.

Ten years of pension freedoms
Research reveals worrying trends among savers.
Ten years ago, pension freedoms revolutionised how people access their retirement savings. These changes offered savers over 55 greater options to withdraw and manage their pension pots. However, a decade later, research indicates that many individuals are making critical financial decisions without seeking advice or fully understanding the tax implications[1].

New rules of Inheritance Tax on businesses and land
The October 2024 Budget proposed sweeping changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT), significantly tightening the laws that were previously more forgiving for families with trading businesses and farmland. Effective from April 2026, these types of assets will have reliefs capped at 100% for the first £1 million of qualifying assets. For valuations exceeding £1 million, the relief will reduce the IHT payable by 50%. While this is lower than the standard 40% rate, the inclusion of businesses and farms within the

Investing For Tomorrow are James Saltonstall Testimonial shirt sponsor
We don’t just invest for tomorrow, we invest in our local community – which is why we are delighted to be Halifax Panthers shirt sponsors for James Saltonstall’s testimonial match marking more than 10 years of play at the club.

Trump’s tariffs create turbulence in global markets
Remaining focused on established investment principles is essential.
The first quarter of 2025 has been anything but steady for global markets. With the arrival of President Donald Trump’s new administration in the United States, economic tensions have surged worldwide. Global stock markets have been left rattled as sweeping tariffs, intended to bolster the American economy, were introduced. However, while these measures may aim to stimulate domestic growth, their ripple effects are reshaping global trade, inflation and investor sentiment.

Wealth transfers of financial legacies
Are you among the many families unprepared and lacking structured plans?
The world is on the verge of an unprecedented intergenerational wealth transfer, with projections estimating that by 2047, an astonishing £5.5 trillion will change hands[1]. Despite this monumental shift, many families remain unprepared, lacking structured plans to ensure their financial legacies are preserved or distributed according to their wishes.