Continued high inflation is prompting over 50s to reconsider whether they really need their life insurance policies, research has suggested1, sparking fears of vulnerabilities. Cutting costs A survey of 1,000 people aged 50+ has shown that 22% of customers are thinking about cancelling their monthly payments as a result of the rising cost of living. […]
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Achieving real financial empowerment
Traditionally, people might have assessed their financial health by simply checking the balance on their bank account or totalling their amassed level of wealth. In recent years, however, a different measure has emerged which seeks to balance financial stability with emotional wellbeing. Financial empowerment This new concept places greater emphasis on goals and developing a […]
The importance and value of financial advice today
There are clearly a variety of reasons why people utilise the services of a financial adviser, but among the key motivating factors is undoubtedly the peace of mind professional advice affords to clients. And, in challenging times like these, it is clearly not difficult to understand why that particular benefit is deemed so important. Peace […]
Economic Review – August 2023
UK growth rate exceeds expectations The latest gross domestic product (GDP) statistics revealed that the UK economy grew more strongly than expected in June, although more recent survey data does suggest a renewed contraction looks ‘inevitable.’ Official data released last month by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed the economy grew by 0.5% in […]
News in Review
“The fight against inflation is carrying a heavy cost in terms of heightened recession risks” Early S&P Global/CIPS UK Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) survey data for August has highlighted that weaker household spending and increasing interest rates contributed towards a decline in demand for both services and goods during the month. The key business survey, monitoring […]
IHT goes mainstream
Inheritance Tax (IHT) receipts have been consistently rising, with new data from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) showing takings for the 2022-23 tax year totalled £7.1bn, up a massive £1bn from the previous tax year (£6.1bn 2021-22). According to HMRC, this huge uplift can be attributed in part to ‘a combination of the recent rises […]
Residential Property Review – August 2023
Demand down but activity remains robust The residential sales market experienced further negative indicators in July, according to the latest UK Residential Survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), with new buyer enquiries and agreed sales volumes continuing their decline. At the national level, new buyer enquiries recorded a net balance of -45% […]
Commercial Property Review – August 2023
Higher interest rates dampen investment The results of the Q2 2023 RICS UK Commercial Property Monitor point to a renewed setback for the commercial property market, with an upward shift in interest rate expectations weighing on investor demand and placing downward pressure on capital values. The survey shows a clear majority of respondents (68%) are […]
News in Review
“Inflation has fallen rapidly over the past six months” The latest inflation data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has shown that the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) measured 6.8% in the 12 months to July 2023, down from 7.9% in June, the lowest rate since early 2022. Prime downward contributors during the month derived […]
Home insurance for home renovations
Home renovations are a popular way to give your property a new lease of life. When undertaking large-scale projects, there is a lot to think about – and the impact on your home insurance should be part of this planning. In the loop As well as producing detailed plans, seeking planning permission and choosing your […]
