Should you consider estate planning and gifting for future generations?

As we age or accumulate more wealth, protecting and preserving our assets for future generations becomes increasingly essential. This process, known as Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning, estate planning or intergenerational wealth planning, involves strategically managing your estate to minimise tax liabilities and ensure that your wealth is passed down to your loved ones in the most tax-efficient manner possible. Continue reading →

Why the concept of a ‘hard stop’ retirement is becoming less prevalent

New research reveals that more than a quarter (28%) of individuals aged 25-54 do not foresee a complete retirement in their future[1]. This suggests the concept of a ‘hard stop’ retirement is becoming less prevalent among those considered to be in their prime working years. This emerging trend reflects a significant shift in how modern workers approach their career trajectories and financial planning. Continue reading →

What payments can you expect to receive from the government later in life?

In April 2024, the State Pension rose by 8.5% to £11,502.40 a year for post-2016 retirees. However, according to new research[1], one in seven (14%) retirees receive less money from the State Pension than expected. This highlights the need for more information about the payments people can expect to receive from the government later in life. Continue reading →

Allow your loved ones to benefit more from your accumulated wealth

Effective planning minimises the burden of Inheritance Tax (IHT), allowing your loved ones to benefit more from your accumulated wealth. If the value of your estate is above the £325,000  threshold (2024/25 tax year), the part of your estate above it could be liable for tax at the rate of 40%. Continue reading →

Ensuring your legacy is managed according 
to your wishes long into the future
Trusts are a powerful tool for estate planning, providing flexibility and control over asset distribution. Properly structured, they can address various scenarios and requirements, ensuring that your legacy is managed according to your wishes long into the future. Continue reading →

How to make sure you avoid becoming one
Since 2015, individuals over the age of 55 with defined contribution (DC) pension pots have enjoyed full freedom to decide how to manage their pensions; purchasing an annuity (a guaranteed income for life) is no longer mandatory. More than 221 people fully withdrew a pension pot of £250,000 or more between October 2022 and March 2023[1], resulting in a tax bill of at least £97,500 each[2], according to new analysis of FCA figures. Continue reading →

How it can help you boost your State Pension
Around one in five grandparents over the age of 50 in the UK provide childcare help for their grandchildren, but thousands may be missing out on a valuable scheme that could increase their State Pension entitlement[1]. Soaring childcare costs mean many parents turn to grandparents to look after their children when they return to work. Continue reading →

Timeless beacons guide investors through periods of market volatility towards financial prosperity
In finance, the core investing principles stand as timeless beacons, guiding investors through periods of 
market volatility towards 
financial prosperity. Continue reading →

Many regret not having commenced their savings journey earlier in their careers
UK retirees are encountering significantly smaller pension pots than they had anticipated, with a considerable number expressing regret over not having commenced their savings journey earlier in their careers. Continue reading →

How behavioural investing can shape financial futures
In the world of investing, where numbers and market analyses typically dominate, a crucial 
element often remains veiled in the backdrop – our behaviour. Continue reading →