News & Articles
Our library of blog articles is a free resource we provide to help our clients and prospective clients understand their finances better. If you have any specific questions about planning your wealth to achieve your goals, then please contact us.
20 Sep 2022
What proposed ultra-long mortgages would mean for your repayments
As property prices rise and families face pressure due to the cost of living crisis, the government is reportedly considering ultra-long mortgages. It’s well-known that house prices have soared in the last couple of decades. According to the Halifax House Price Index, the average house price is… Read More
20 Sep 2022
Do you think financial protection claims aren’t upheld? 98% were paid in 2021
If you think that insurers don’t pay out when people make claims, you’re far from alone. According to Scottish Widows, just 7% of people think that life cover claims pay out between 91% and 100% of the time. For critical illness claims, this figure falls dramatically to… Read More
20 Sep 2022
Market volatility can be attention-grabbing, but you should focus on these 3 areas instead
The last couple of years have been challenging for investors. Factors outside of your control are likely to have led to your portfolio experiencing volatility. However, while market performance often grabs news headlines and your attention, the short-term movements of your portfolio shouldn’t be your main focus. Market volatility characterised… Read More
20 Sep 2022
Cost of living crisis: Why you should review your budget and plans
The cost of living is rising. Reviewing your finances now is crucial for understanding what effect inflation could have on your lifestyle and long-term plans. Inflation was at an almost 40-year high. In the 12 months to August 2022, it was 9.9%. There are several factors contributing to rising inflation,… Read More
20 Sep 2022
Why saving your pension could reduce a potential Inheritance Tax bill
When you start thinking about how you’ll create an income in retirement, it’s probably your pension that comes to mind. Yet, if your estate could be liable for Inheritance Tax (IHT), it could make sense to use other assets first. IHT is paid after you pass away if the value… Read More
20 Sep 2022
1 in 3 savers worry they’ve “lost” a pension. Here’s how to track them down
It can be easier than you think to lose your retirement savings. In fact, estimates suggest thousands of savers have forgotten about pensions that could support their retirement goals. 31 October marks National Pension Tracing Day, so it’s the perfect time to review your savings and see if you could… Read More
17 Aug 2022
Mortgage lenders are told they can scrap affordability rules. Here’s why it’s still important to assess your budget
The Bank of England’s (BoE) decision to scrap some affordability tests for people taking out a mortgage could mean you’re able to borrow higher sums. However, it’s still crucial that you have confidence in your budget and don’t overextend yourself. From 1 August 2022, lenders won’t have… Read More
17 Aug 2022
7 essential money lessons your children need to know before they go to university
The day that you send your child or grandchild off to university can bring up mixed feelings. There’s pride and joy at their accomplishment, but also fear and worry as they venture out into the world on their own for the first time. There’s also the issue of their financial… Read More
17 Aug 2022
5 unexpected lessons you can learn about finances from Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl’s books are known for colourful characters, fantastic adventures, and simply being fun. As a child, they’re the perfect books for capturing your imagination. As an adult, you can even find some unexpected money lessons nestled among the talking creatures and magic. Here are five financial lessons you can… Read More
17 Aug 2022
Women are investing earlier than men, and it could close the wealth gap
The gender wealth gap is a widely acknowledged issue in the UK, particularly in the context of pension savings and women’s ability to retire. Indeed, a report by Now Pensions and published by consumer group Which? suggested that on average, women would need to work an additional… Read More
17 Aug 2022
How self-employed workers can create financial security amid economic uncertainty
As a self-employed worker, it can be more difficult to manage your finances. Your income may vary or not be as reliable as those who are employed. According to a study from Scottish Widows, almost half of self-employed workers said their income fluctuates. The research suggests that… Read More
17 Aug 2022
5 important things to check this Pension Awareness Day
If you’re guilty of ignoring your pension, a review ahead of Pension Awareness Day on 15 September can help make sure you’re on track for the retirement you want. Here are five important things to check. 1. How is your pension invested? The money held in your pension is usually… Read More
