Taking proactive steps in securing your child’s or grandchild’s financial future. Many parents and grandparents set aside money for the next generation to help with their financial needs. The rising cost of education, housing, and life in general, has created concerns about financial stability for future generations.  Increasingly, parents and grandparents want to ensure their children and grandchildren have the financial resources to navigate these challenges successfully. Additionally, a greater awareness of the importance of financial planning and wealth accumulation

£1.3 billion pension tax relief unclaimed by pension savers over a five-year period. According to recent research, higher rate and additional rate taxpayers in the UK leave millions of pounds of pension tax relief unclaimed yearly[1]. This amounts to a staggering total of £1.3 billion over a five-year period. This unclaimed money could be in your pocket instead. Pension tax relief is a government incentive to encourage individuals to save for retirement. It boosts your pension contributions based on your

How bonds’ structure and tax advantages can help you pass on wealth. Investment bonds offer several benefits that some investors may be missing out on, and have become even more beneficial due to recent changes in tax regulations following the Chancellor’s decision to reduce the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Allowance from £12,000 to £6,000 this year and to £3,000 in April 2024. Minimise Inheritance Tax These changes will likely appeal to investors who want to minimise Inheritance Tax (IHT) liabilities

Make sure you maximise your retirement income through annuity shopping. When it comes to using your pension pot, buying an annuity is one option that provides a regular and guaranteed retirement income for either your lifetime or a fixed term. However, it’s important to note that purchasing an annuity is typically an irreversible decision. Do you know that shopping around for an annuity could earn you £15,000 more over your retirement?[1] Recent analysis has shed light on the benefits of

Why defined contribution pensions are even more appealing for wealth transfer. The announcement of the removal of the Lifetime Allowance (LTA) from the 2024/25 tax year in March’s Spring Budget 2023 has made defined contribution pensions even more appealing for wealth transfer. This benefits individuals over 55 who intend to leave their tax-free lump sum intact with their pension to maximise their benefits. There may be further changes to pension allowance rules. However, removing the LTA charge allows for an

Starting estate planning early and implementing it in stages is desirable. The UK Treasury has been receiving record-breaking Inheritance Tax (IHT) receipts. IHT receipts amounted to approximately £7.09 billion British pounds in 2022/23, compared with £6.05 billion in the previous financial year[1]. For individuals and families who have to pay it, IHT can be emotionally challenging, often requiring the sale of cherished family assets to settle the tax bill. That’s why starting estate planning early and implementing it in stages

Developing an investment strategy tailored to your goals. Committing to a financial plan is crucial for building wealth and achieving long-term financial goals. When you have a plan, you are more likely to stay focused on your objectives and take the necessary steps to reach them. Planning allows you to develop an investment strategy tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals. It helps you understand different investment options, diversify your portfolio and make informed decisions about where to allocate

Our health, an invaluable asset, is often overlooked or taken for granted. As a parent, ensuring the well-being of your children is a top priority. From having open conversations with your partner to creating a Will, there are straightforward measures you can implement to provide them with the protection they deserve. Open the conversation Discussing sensitive topics might be uncomfortable, but it’s essential for planning and protecting your children’s future. Choose a time and place to start this important conversation

Ensure your wealth is preserved for future generations. As you enter your golden years, the excitement of finally retiring may be tinged with some uncertainty. With the working days behind you, it’s natural to wonder if you’ve amassed sufficient resources and how best to utilise them. Additionally, life can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. Investing for income after retirement can seem a daunting task, but it is by no means impossible. With professional advice,

What is it, and why is it important? Trusting that your investments are progressing toward your objectives is vital, allowing you to concentrate on the things you value most in life. This is why building a diversified portfolio is crucial to any successful investment strategy.  Diversifying your investment portfolio can limit your exposure to any single type of asset, therefore helping to reduce the risk and volatility of your portfolio. The primary goal is to spread your investment portfolio across

Key steps to achieving a comfortable retirement. A comfortable retirement is a common financial goal, and contributing to a pension is essential to achieving it. Although retirement may appear distant at the moment, there’s much to consider. Let us assist you in navigating this crucial life milestone. By planning ahead and making smart decisions about your savings, you can ensure a stable and enjoyable retirement. Here are 10 steps to help you get pension retirement ready: 1. Assess your current

Supporting responsible practices and contributing to a sustainable future. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing is a strategy that focuses on companies that prioritise environmental, social, and governance factors in their operations. Investing in these businesses aims to support responsible practices and contribute to a sustainable future. By focusing on companies with high ESG scores, investors can support sustainable and ethical businesses while enjoying the potential for superior financial performance. Here’s a breakdown of the three ESG criteria: Environmental: This