A third of people expecting £300k+ inheritance don’t fully understand IHT, risking lost family wealth Only 20% plan lifetime transfers, 22% avoid inheritance discussions and 28% don’t understand planning options UK dividends hit £35.1bn in Q2, with banks and Rolls-Royce contributing to underlying growth People don’t understand IHT Research1 shows there’s a significant knowledge gap […]
Author archives: matthew
Mortgage Guarantee Scheme launched
The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is now permanently available across the UK Lenders are insured against losses, supporting availability of high LTV mortgages When borrowing at higher loan-to-value levels, it’s important to tread carefully The government’s new Mortgage Guarantee Scheme became permanently available in July 2025. The scheme, which was part of Labour’s election manifesto, aims […]
Financial decisions – put your best foot forward
Going outdoors for an energising walk can help bring clarity when making major financial decisions Focus on your long-term goals and make sure your decisions are aligned with your risk profile Professional guidance can help you understand what’s right for you and your circumstances Perplexed by your pension? Seeking investment inspiration? Then why not head […]
Autumn housing market outlook
Buyers gain negotiating power with more homes available and improving mortgage affordability Sellers must adopt competitive pricing strategies as overpriced homes risk being overlooked Modest price growth is expected, but steady activity could sustain momentum through autumn As summer fades, the UK housing market moves into autumn with steady momentum. A high volume of homes […]
Future proofing your finances this autumn
Autumn offers a chance to take stock and review your pensions, savings and investments Establishing robust financial foundations is essential in times of economic uncertainty and elevated living costs To feel confident about your financial future, build short-term resilience and strengthen long-term security As the days shorten and the evenings draw in, autumn is a […]
Autumn Budget – forward thinking
The Autumn Budget may bring tax changes affecting pensions, IHT, savings and investments Speculation is high, but proactive planning can strengthen financial resilience ahead of announcements Reviewing contributions, allowances and inheritance strategies ensures you’re prepared for future changes As the Autumn Budget approaches, speculation is growing about what the Chancellor may announce. The National Institute […]
Homing in on the mortgage challenges facing gig workers
76% of UK gig workers face mortgage and loan application rejections despite good credit Traditional credit systems don’t reflect gig workers’ multiple income sources Expert guidance helps gig workers improve mortgage approval odds by validating diverse income Variable income streams. Multiple employers. Seasonal side hustles. This is business as usual for gig economy workers, freelancers […]
Is ‘financial independence’ a better option than retirement?
Financial independence means working becomes optional, not essential Diversifying income beyond pensions offers lasting security and freedom A clear plan helps you align your later life with your long-term goals Retirement used to mean the end of working life, but that’s definitely no longer the case. People are living longer, staying healthier and keen to […]
Economic Review – September 2025
UK inflation remained at an 18-month high of 3.8% in August, driven by food prices. Above the BoE 2% target UK GDP growth fell to 0.2% in the three months to July and output failed to grow at all in July In the UK jobs market payrolls fell for the seventh consecutive month and wage […]
Gen X stash the cash
Gen X savers are cautious, with over £34k on average held in cash savings Less than a third also invest, risking long-term value erosion from inflation Balancing cash investments can offer better growth without excessive risk Nearly two in three Brits born between 1965 and 1980 hold ‘significant’ savings in cash, new research1 shows, while […]
