What to consider before investing in your child’s business
Investing in your child’s business can be a rewarding yet complex decision for parents. While providing financial support can open up opportunities for tax planning and help kickstart a venture, it’s important to carefully consider the implications before making any commitments. According to research by Charles Stanley, a significant number of new businesses receive initial […]
‘I’ve ditched my adviser – how do I invest my £800,000?’
Robin and Mary, a couple aged 66 and 64, have never invested their savings on their own before. They are looking to set up a new strategy and funds for retirement income. With pensions, Isas, and general investment accounts in their portfolio, their main objective is to generate income in a hands-off way while also […]
What to do when you inherit a portfolio
Inheriting a portfolio is a significant event that can have a lasting impact on your financial future. It’s important to carefully consider how the risk level and diversification of your new portfolio align with your current investment strategy. Additionally, inheriting a portfolio may also affect your future Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability, so it’s crucial to […]
‘How can I reduce my £190,000 CGT bill?’
As a 65-year-old investor with over 40 years of experience, Gareth is looking to simplify his £1.1mn portfolio spread over 33 holdings in a general investment account. With unrealised gains of about £790,000, Gareth is considering the potential capital gains tax (CGT) implications of reorganizing his investments for easier management as he ages. Ian Futcher, […]
IHT on pensions is becoming a bureaucratic nightmare
Unintended Consequences of Inheritance Tax on Pensions As the government attempts to reform pensions, the complexity of the system continues to pose challenges. The latest focus is on the application of inheritance tax (IHT) on pensions, a measure announced in last year’s autumn Budget. The intention behind this move is to ensure that pensions are […]
How to calculate (and cut) your capital gains tax bill
Capital gains tax (CGT) rules can be confusing and often misunderstood by investors. While physical property is subject to CGT, we will focus on shares and funds in this article. To calculate your CGT liability, you need to determine the difference between the purchase price and the selling price of your assets. Any gains above […]
The ‘golden’ era of rental growth is over
Rental Growth Slows Down in 2024 After Strong Recovery Post-Covid Landlords have faced numerous challenges in recent years, from higher mortgage rates to reduced tax relief options. Despite these difficulties, one area that provided some stability was rental growth. Following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, rental growth rebounded quickly in 2021 and […]
‘I bought paper shares for my children – will I be taxed if I transfer them?’
Investing in income-earning utilities can be a smart financial move, especially if you have been holding onto shares for a long time. One reader, Tim, shared his concerns about transferring shares designated for his children and the potential tax implications involved. Tax expert Anna Warren from Bentley Reid provided valuable insights into the situation. It […]
‘Can I gift to cut IHT and still live off my portfolio?’
Phil and Andrea, aged 59 and 57, have built up substantial portfolios through their Isas, pensions, property, a general investment account, and cash. Their main objectives are to generate a retirement income and reduce their inheritance tax (IHT) bill. With retirement on the horizon, they are now faced with the crucial task of ensuring that […]
Why it’s crucial to split business and personal finances – and how to do it
Starting your own business or transitioning from a traditional job to self-employment can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. With so much to consider, such as securing funding, attracting clients, and growing your business, it’s easy to overlook the importance of long-term financial planning for both your business and personal finances. Separating your personal and […]