You’ve probably heard about the gender pay gap. You may even have heard about the gender pension gap. But did you know there is also a gender protection gap? Women are typically less likely than men to have insurance that protects them financially against the risk of being unable to work due to illness or […]
Author archives: matthew
A reminder of recent property tax changes
The Autumn Budget made the headlines with a host of announcements, mostly on taxation. Housing did not play a large part in the key fiscal event, but there are a few points to be aware of. Second homes From 31 October 2024, people buying a second home pay an extra 2% of the entire property […]
Economic Review February 2025
Growth stronger than expected in late 2024 Data released last month by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that the UK economy unexpectedly grew in the final three months of last year, although more recent survey evidence still points to a sluggish outlook. The latest gross domestic product (GDP) statistics showed that economic output […]
Money – In other news
One in five UK adults have been scammed in the past year, causing debt and financial strain. 38% of Brits in their 30s and early 40s are relying on their parents’ assets for financial security. There are an estimated 2.8 million missing pension pots in the UK, fuelling demand for the Pension Tracing Service. One […]
Why financial procrastination can harm your health (and your finances)
Financial procrastination – delaying financial tasks – can negatively impact both your finances and health. Signs of financial procrastination include fear of mistakes, lack of confidence, and unclear financial goals. Combat procrastination by setting clear financial goals, seeking expert advice, and taking proactive action. We all know that putting things off is all too easy. […]
Family tensions over money talks – time to break the taboo
Many wealthy individuals hesitate to discuss financial planning due to fears of family disagreements, with 10% avoiding the topic altogether and 27% finding it uncomfortable1. However, this reluctance to have a discussion could lead to future misunderstandings, as family members may have unrealistic expectations about their inheritance. Only 12% of wealthy individuals said they regularly […]
Don’t invest under the ‘finfluence’
People are increasingly seeking financial guidance on social media. While financial influencers – or ‘finfluencers’ – can be useful in raising awareness around financial matters, there is also a darker side to the growth of unregulated advisers. Social media age In the UK, more than one in four people use some combination of social media, […]
In the news – Home Finance
Significant gains for homeowners over 20 years Analysis reveals1 that UK homeowners who purchased their properties in the last 20 years have seen an average increase of £80,000 in value. In comparison, those who sold within the last year made an average gain of £65,000. Homes in high-value areas and commuter towns, including the Cotswolds […]
In the news
17 out of 21 sectors raised dividend payments in Q3 On a headline basis, total UK dividends in Q3 2024 fell to £25.6bn, an 8.1% decline, led by cuts in the mining sector (£2.6bn reduction in payouts)1. Stronger sterling, the impact of share buybacks and lower one-off special dividends also contributed to the reduction. Mining […]
‘Freshen-uppers’ the most desirable property type
Are you looking to move house in 2025? If so, a recent study1 has found that the most desirable property type for 49% of people is a ‘freshen-upper,’ with prospective buyers keen to personalise their new home with small scale improvements. The days of the full ‘fixer-upper’ property are fading, as time-poor purchasers increasing look to […]