Ten ways to change your financial habits in 2017
For many, the start of a new year is a time of reflection and a renewed determination to do things differently in the months that lie ahead. Whilst overhauling your finances could seem less exciting than taking up a new hobby or challenge, it could make a big difference to your future wealth. CHECK YOUR […]
IHT planning for couples- Changes you need to know about
From 6 April 2017, there is an important change to Inheritance Tax (IHT) that families need to be aware of so that they can plan their wealth effectively for the future. This change is often referred to as the ‘family home allowance’ but is more correctly referred to as the Residence Nil-rate Band (RNRB). HOW […]
Pension scams- More stolen than first thought
Pension scams have been in the spotlight since new freedoms have provided an attractive target for fraudsters. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, frequently targeting potential victims through emails, online banking systems, text messages and online transactions. Recently hackers stole money from 9,000 Tesco Bank current accounts, highlighting how vulnerable we all are. Data indicates the […]
Self-employment booms amongst women- but pensions suffer
More and more women are taking the plunge and becoming self-employed according to research from a leading insurer. The number of women working for themselves has hit an all-time high of 1.5m1 . According to research from charity Citizens Advice2 , many of these self-employed women work part time. Two-thirds of people who work for […]
Investment risk- Where are you on the spectrum?
All investing involves risk in the pursuit of potential gains. However, our attitude to risk and the amount of risk we’re happy to assume can vary markedly from person to person. It can also change with age. An important part of working with your financial adviser will be to establish how much risk you’re comfortable […]
Gen O struggling to save
The ‘Ostrich Generation’, or Gen O for short (16-34 year olds), have got their heads in the sand when it comes to how they choose to spend and especially save their money. A recent survey1 revealed that over half of Gen O regularly treat themselves whenever they want. Choosing to spend more money in the present […]
What’s your financial game plan for 2017?
The New Year is a good time to review your finances and set goals for the coming 12 months. With the tax year end in April approaching, it makes sense to ensure you’re making the most of the various tax allowances available to you. SAVE AS TAX-EFFECTIVELY AS POSSIBLE Don’t forget to use this year’s […]
Top tips for saving for a deposit
With the average property in the UK now costing over £200,000, saving a big enough deposit to get a good mortgage deal for your first home can seem like an impossible dream. Here are some tips that can help boost your savings. TAKE A LONG HARD LOOK AT WHAT YOU SPEND In order to get […]
How to start an investment portfolio
Most of us would like to be comfortably-off financially. With interest rates low, being an enthusiastic saver isn’t on its own enough to secure this goal. If you put money in a savings account its value will be eroded by inflation. Investing means introducing risk to your money. This is not necessarily a bad thing, […]
Buy-to-let tax relief changes- Landlords set to pay higher bills
The National Landlords Association has calculated that the buy-to-let tax changes that will come into operation in April will affect one in five landlords, meaning that around 440,000 could, depending on their personal financial circumstances, find themselves paying tax at a higher rate as a result of the profits they make from their rental properties. […]