“Employment is up, investment is growing, public services are improving, the public finances are stabilising, and wages are rising.” This is the backdrop against which Rishi Sunak presented the 2021 Autumn Budget. Promising “a stronger economy for the British people”, the chancellor outlined his taxation and spending proposals. Here’s a summary of the key points … Continued

There’s no denying it, the days are getting shorter, and the temperature is falling – autumn has arrived and winter will be with us soon enough. So, now is the ideal time to ensure your house is fit for all that winter can throw at it, and to make sure you’ll be kept warm and … Continued

Historically, stock markets have shown a long-term upward trend. The 2019 Barclays Equity Gilt Study reveals that £100 invested in cash in 1899 would be worth just over £20,000 in 2019. While that may sound impressive, it also shows that if you had put the money into stocks and shares it would have been worth … Continued

A common perception of pensions is that they are complicated and difficult to understand. It’s hardly surprising when you consider that financial planners must pass gruelling examinations to advise clients on their retirement funds. Furthermore, they then have to undergo continuous professional development to demonstrate they have kept up to date with any changes in … Continued

The recent finalisation of Bill and Melinda Gates’ divorce after 27 years of marriage reminds us of a curious fact revealed by FTAdviser recently. It explains that while divorce is on the decline overall, within older generations it’s on the increase. According to the article, while the most recent 10-year data shows divorces fell by … Continued

In 1953, De Beers ran a hugely successful marketing campaign to promote its diamond engagement ring. It used the strapline “how else could a month’s salary last a lifetime?” The success of the campaign relied on the biases we have as humans, which are used to make decisions. In the case of the advert, it … Continued

According to government statistics, more than 210,000 students in England accepted places at a university in 2021. Of those, 192,000 confirmed places at their university of first choice. After another demanding year for students thanks to Covid, it was very welcome news. What may not be as welcome is recent data by the Association of … Continued

This week, the government has made two major policy announcements that are likely to directly affect your finances. A much-anticipated National Insurance rise will result in an increased burden on workers including, for the first time, those above State Pension Age. In addition, the government has suspended the State Pension triple lock, meaning that pensioners … Continued

Have you thought about how you’ll pass wealth on to those who are important to you? Traditionally, this has been done through inheritance, but it’s becoming more common to gift during your lifetime. Our latest guide explains why more families are choosing to gift during their lifetime and the pros and cons of each option. … Continued

When you think about your future, how far ahead do you plan? Perhaps you’ve thought about what your life will look like in 10 years, but have you considered your later years? While retirement planning is common, it’s often the early years of retirement that people focus on. However, your needs and lifestyle wishes can … Continued