‘Will Trump’s tariffs stop me from retiring early?’
For soon-to-be retirees, US President Donald Trump’s tariffs could not have come at a worse time. Watching your pension fund drop in value as markets crash is unnerving to say the least. However, it is important not to let panic get the better of you. If you have a sensible investment strategy, tweaking your approach, […]
NS&I announces savings rate hikes
National Savings & Investments (NS&I) has recently made some significant changes to its fixed-term savings accounts, including increasing interest rates and relaunching popular options for savers. The organization has reintroduced its one-year and five-year British Saving Bonds, with the one-year option now offering a competitive rate of 4.05 per cent, and the five-year bonds paying […]
How to pass on your digital assets
In today’s digital age, our financial information is no longer stored in physical filing cabinets but rather in the digital realm. Digital assets have become a crucial part of our estate planning, yet many people overlook them when preparing for the future. What exactly constitutes a digital asset? According to Natalie Butler, a private client […]
Know and avoid these tax traps
Tax planning is a crucial aspect of managing your finances, but navigating the complex tax system can be challenging. HMRC has certain thresholds and rules in place that can catch you off guard if you’re not careful. Avoiding these ‘tax traps’ requires strategic planning and understanding of the rules to ensure you don’t end up […]
How to make the most of Isas and pensions
Tax efficiency is a key component of successful financial management. It is important to ensure that your investments are structured in a way that minimizes tax liabilities and maximizes returns. Reviewing your portfolio and financial plans annually is a good practice to ensure that you are on track to meet your financial goals. As the […]
How to make the most of your tax-free allowances
One of the most effective ways to save money on taxes is by taking full advantage of your tax-free allowances. However, navigating through the various allowances can be complex, and tax policies can change frequently. Understanding concepts such as capital gains tax (CGT), gifting allowances, and the benefits of managing finances jointly as a couple […]
How to invest the proceeds of a buy-to-let sale
The landscape of buy-to-let investing has shifted in recent years, with many landlords finding that the returns are no longer as lucrative as they once were. As a result, more and more property owners are considering selling up and exploring alternative investment options. According to data from Rightmove, the percentage of properties previously used as […]
How dividends and interest are taxed
Income tax thresholds remaining frozen is causing more taxpayers to fall into higher-rate tax bands. However, it’s important to note that income for tax purposes isn’t just limited to your salary; earnings from savings and investments are also considered by HMRC. Understanding how dividends and interest are taxed is crucial if you want to organize […]
Seven essential tax guides to boost your savings
When it comes to maximizing your savings and investments, tax efficiency is key. By taking advantage of tax-free allowances, investing wisely, and staying informed about tax rules and pitfalls, you can ensure that your hard-earned money is working for you. Here are some important strategies to keep in mind: Utilize Your Allowances: The first step […]
How to get your will right
Creating a will is often overlooked in the realm of financial planning, with many individuals putting it off due to the uncomfortable nature of addressing their own mortality. However, the unpredictability of life underscores the importance of having a current will in place. Dying without a will, known as dying intestate, can lead to a […]