Are you holding too much in cash?

Falling inflation and rate cuts could change how savers think about their money.

Cash is often regarded as a safe haven in personal finance. It’s accessible and protected from stock market fluctuations, and rising interest rates have made savings accounts more attractive. However, while a cash buffer offers security, holding too much can quietly diminish your wealth through inflation and missed investment opportunities. This article will help you evaluate whether your cash holdings are supporting your financial goals or holding

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Pensions to fall under Inheritance Tax rules from April 2027

How upcoming changes could affect estate valuations and beneficiary payouts.

In the previous 2024 Autumn Budget, the Chancellor announced that the Inheritance Tax (IHT) thresholds, which are the amount you can pass on when you die before IHT is due, will remain unchanged until 2030. However, from 6 April 2027, pensions will no longer be exempt from IHT, which will alter how estates are valued and passed on. That means that Inheritance Tax may have to be paid on your

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Almost half of UK adults are unaware of their pension savings

New data uncovers a concerning gap in pension awareness and confidence across all generations.

In the UK, nearly half of working-age adults cannot estimate the total value of their pension savings. This uncertainty suggests that many lack a clear understanding of their retirement readiness and may be missing opportunities to plan effectively for the future.

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A third of UK adults have voluntarily increased pension contributions

Even small top-ups or one-off payments could accumulate to thousands in future retirement savings.

Nearly a third of adults in the UK are now contributing more than the minimum into their workplace pensions. Research shows that 31% of people have voluntarily increased their regular pension contributions, while one in ten have made additional one-off payments to boost their future savings[1]. The findings highlight how small, consistent top-ups can significantly improve retirement outcomes, even for those on average salaries.

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Why should you invest in an ISA this year?

Acting sooner significantly improves your chances of achieving financial goals.

Many people delay contributing to their ISA (Individual Savings Account) until the end of the tax year, but acting earlier greatly improves your chances of reaching financial goals. Whether you’re building a nest egg or saving for a specific aim, starting early with an ISA provides some key advantages.

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Why protection matters

Do you have a safety net for you and your loved ones in case the unforeseen happens?

Most people prefer not to consider unexpected misfortune when thinking about the future. However, being prepared for life’s uncertainties is essential to protect your family’s way of life. Financial security provides a safety net for your loved ones if you face illness, injury or an untimely death. But understanding the right cover to meet your needs can be complicated and daunting.

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Why has a lifetime gifting cap raised concerns?

Proposed policy would fundamentally change how wealth is transferred across generations.

Concerns are growing about the possible introduction of a lifetime gifting cap by the government. This could significantly alter how wealth is passed down through generations, impacting not only large estates but also everyday family financial support. By bringing more gifts into the scope of Inheritance Tax (IHT), the proposed changes could complicate life for families who depend on regular financial assistance from loved ones.

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Unlocking financial freedom

Save, invest and grow your wealth for a secure future.

A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is a type of personal pension that provides you with greater control over how and where your retirement savings are invested. While it operates similarly to a standard personal pension by allowing you to save, invest and grow your wealth, SIPPs stand out because of the flexibility they provide. They enable you to choose from a wider range of investment options, allowing you to tailor

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Show me the money

£102.3 billion withdrawn flexibly from pension pots since 2015.

Seven in ten people who withdrew funds from their pensions over the last decade were under 65, according to recent findings from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The data highlights concerns about accessing retirement pots before reaching the State Pension age.

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Safeguarding against scams

Common frauds and how to protect yourself.

Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, blending traditional scams with advanced technology to deceive unsuspecting victims. This constant increase in fraudulent activity emphasises the urgent need for heightened awareness and proactive safeguards.

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