Equity Release – cause for optimism
Over 15,000 active customers and £622m in lending recorded in Q4 2024, up from £525m in Q4 2023 A 3.3% increase in UK house prices contributed to larger loan sizes and improved product availability. A 27% rise in returning customers using further advances shows growing confidence in equity release Looking at The Equity Release Council’s […]
Navigating uncertainty together
Economic and political uncertainty can lead to impulsive financial decisions—long-term planning is key Media headlines create noise, but financial plans should be tailored to personal goals, not speculation. A strong financial strategy is built to adapt—seek expert advice to stay on track Over the past five years, we’ve experienced a global pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, political […]
Surging demand for protection insurance – are you covered?
Income protection demand is expected to grow, with 51% of financial advisers predicting an increase in 2025 44% of advisers anticipate rising demand for life insurance, as more people seek financial security With economic uncertainty, more individuals are prioritising private health insurance and income protection The demand for health insurance, income protection and life insurance […]
One in six plan to move in 2025
30% of Brits moved home in the past three years, motivated by lifestyle changes and space One in six homeowners plan to relocate this year, with garages and gardens top priorities Renters face affordability challenges, with many needing family support to buy their first home. After a busy period in the housing market, there seems […]
Closing the investing gap
13 million UK adults are sitting on £430bn in cash, potentially missing out on higher long-term investment returns Many savers find investing too complex—74% need guidance on choosing the right investments Holding cash is useful for short-term needs, but long-term investing can offer greater wealth-building potential A recent report1 estimates 13 million UK adults are […]
Money – In the news
Child Trust Funds still unclaimed Some 728,000 people who have recently turned 18 have not claimed their Child Trust Fund, figures1 show, with the total value of unclaimed money amounting to £1.4bn. Many eligible young people do not know that their account exists, campaigners say. MPs are urging more action from HMRC to inform potential […]
Stamp Duty changes – tune in
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rates reverted on 1 April 2025 to pre-September 2022 levels First-time buyers will have to start paying the tax on any home valued above £300,000 Non-first-time buyers will pay SDLT on properties valued above £125,000. From 1 April 2025, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rates revert to the thresholds prevailing […]
Kickstart the new tax year with confidence
With the new tax year allowances in place, now is the time to make smart financial decisions Taking time to review and refine your financial plan can help you stay on track for the future Ensure you’re making the most of the opportunities available – your future self will thank you! The beginning of the […]
Spring tips for UK homebuyers
Spring typically offers an uptick in listings, with 70% of homes listed in February and March completing quickly Buyers have benefited from stable mortgage rates and a wider selection of homes to offer on Early preparation is crucial for making informed and successful decisions in a competitive market As spring gets under way, the UK […]
Time for a spring clean? How about ‘death cleaning’ your finances?
Could your finances benefit from a spring clean? You could take your cue from the Swedes. They believe in ‘döstädning,’ or ‘death cleaning.’ It sounds pessimistic, but it involves decluttering your belongings to reduce the burden you leave behind to loved ones. The philosophy gained international prominence through a 2018 book called The Gentle Art […]