Many regret not having commenced their savings journey earlier in their careers

UK retirees are encountering significantly smaller pension pots than they had anticipated, with a considerable number expressing regret over not having commenced their savings journey earlier in their careers.

Prevailing concern among savers regarding their capability to make informed investment decisions

A comprehensive survey has unveiled a complex picture of how savers perceive their pension investments. Despite a high level of awareness, with 82% of pension savers acknowledging that their pensions are invested, a mere 26% possess knowledge about the specifics of these investments[1]. This gap in understanding presents a unique insight into the current attitudes towards pension investment among savers.

Whether through property, pensions or a blend of both, informed decision-making is crucial

A recent study suggests that a substantial proportion of Generation Z, born from 1996 to 2010, view property acquisition as their principal avenue to amass wealth for their retirement years [1]. This perspective is slightly more prevalent within this demographic than the reliance on pensions, with 33% of Gen Z individuals planning to utilise property as a retirement fund compared to 30% who favour pensions.

How behavioural investing can shape financial futures

In the world of investing, where numbers and market analyses typically dominate, a crucial element often remains veiled in the backdrop – our behaviour. Behavioural investing emerges as a pivotal field, merging the realms of finance and psychology to scrutinise how our emotions, cognitive biases, backgrounds and worldviews intricately influence our investment decisions. It ventures into the less discussed but significant spectrum of how our psychological makeup can mould our financial futures, for

How to pass on assets to the next generation to secure their future for tomorrow

Inheritance Tax (IHT) represents a significant consideration for anyone looking to pass on assets to the next generation.

Survey highlights prevailing uncertainty among those on the cusp of retirement

A recent study reveals that a considerable proportion of UK adults, including a significant number nearing retirement, find themselves in a quandary regarding their State Pension entitlements and the commencement of their payments[1].

Pivotal shift changes you need to know commenced from 6 April 2024

Beginning on 6 April 2024, a pivotal shift in pension benefit taxation commenced. The Lifetime Allowance (LTA) was replaced by a new structure comprising three distinct allowances: the Lump Sum Allowance (LSA), Lump Sum and Death Benefit Allowance (LSDBA), and Overseas Transfer Allowance (OTA).

New tax year, new you? Maximise your pension savings this new tax year

As we embark on the new tax year, it presents an opportune moment to review your pension savings strategy, setting a solid foundation for future financial stability. Early attention to your private pension at the onset of the fiscal year is not just about cultivating beneficial saving habits; it’s also about ensuring you fully exploit the benefits and allowances available to you.

Why savers and investors now have a more flexible approach

Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) offer a versatile and tax-efficient way to save for the future, whether for yourself, your children or grandchildren. Now that we have entered the new financial year, on 6 April 2024, significant changes to ISAs have been introduced.

Maintaining an investment stance centred on the potential for long-term growth.

For investors, the perennial question of whether to ‘stick or twist’ with their current investments or pivot towards the perceived safety of cash is fundamental. Numerous factors influence this decision, which plays a pivotal role in the journey towards financial prosperity.

The appeal of cash, particularly in uncertain times, is clear; however, a judicious choice to remain invested frequently emerges as the more astute strategy.

Contributing additional amounts to your pension stands to benefit you significantly in the long term.

Recent research findings have brought to light a striking observation: fewer than 10% of adults in the UK contribute occasional lump sums to their pensions[1]. This statistic is particularly surprising given that such contributions could significantly amplify one’s retirement savings.

Effective Inheritance Tax planning is a careful balancing act.

Once a concern only for the very affluent, Inheritance Tax (IHT) is now an issue for many ordinary families, who may find themselves handing over an unprecedented portion of their estates to the taxman. This shift results from years of house price growth, inflation and stagnant tax thresholds. The Office for Budget Responsibility anticipates that IHT will bring in £7.2 billion in the fiscal year 2023/24[1].