Using your ISA allowance early increases potential tax-free growth opportunities Pension contributions attract relief and may reduce higher-rate tax exposure Early planning helps optimise capital gains and Inheritance Tax allowances A new tax year feels a bit like spring cleaning for your finances – a fresh start, new allowances and a chance to put good […]
Author archives: matthew
News in Review
The latest figures from Nationwide show that UK house prices grew by an annual rise of 2.2% As the Middle East conflict strains the UK-US relationship, urgent plans are underway to strengthen EU economic ties An estimated 2.7 million workers received a pay rise last week, as the national minimum wage increased “Housing market activity […]
Economic Review March 2026
Office for Budget Responsibility warned the Middle East conflict will impact both global and UK economies significantly Last month, Bank of England policymakers unanimously voted to maintain interest rates at their current level of 3.75% Office for National Statistics figures indicate pay growth is slowest for five years and consumer confidence dipped Middle East conflict […]
The surprising property premium of some floral addresses
Research shows that floral street names can significantly boost the value of a property The biggest premium was found on ‘Bellflower’ streets, where the median sale price increased 199% Property experts suggest that flower-inspired names evoke charm, calm and a sense of natural beauty As spring edges into view, new research1 suggests that a floral touch may do more than lift the […]
The gradual retirement trend – making the right choices
Research shows that floral street names can significantly boost the value of a property Uncertainty around pension rules can affect confidence, leading to rushed or potentially regrettable financial decisions Careful planning and professional guidance help ensure retirement choices align with long-term goals and lifestyle New research1 highlights a growing preference among UK workers for a gradual […]
Secure your home and future
30% of UK adults could be forced to sell their family home if their partner unexpectedly died 60% of those with a mortgage don’t have a life insurance policy that includes mortgage protection Life insurance provides loved ones with vital financial support – talk it through with your family and seek advice The death of a partner can be devastating – […]
Entrepreneurs defy uncertainty with optimism and adaptability
An HSBC report shows that entrepreneurs remain remarkably optimistic despite policy shifts, market volatility and trade disruption Entrepreneurial optimism tends to translate into investment, innovation and job creation across the broader economy Entrepreneurs’ appetite to harness long-term trends, from AI to global wealth flows, underpins continued growth and resilience Almost 3,000 entrepreneurs across 15 markets […]
A shift in equity release priorities
Figures from the Equity Release Council revealed a 10% annual increase in borrowing in Q2 2025. In H1 2025, making home adaptations or improvements was the top reason for using equity release. More homeowners are taking out a lifetime mortgage to fund day-to-day living, highlighting cost of living pressures. From property renovations to dream holidays, homeowners are increasingly using equity release to help […]
Wealth – In the news
77% of high-net-worth individuals began making significant charitable donations after surpassing £2m in personal wealth High-net-worth individuals want their money to carry meaning, so philanthropy is becoming integral to wealth planning Inheritance Tax receipts continue rising, with forecasts suggesting revenues could reach £14bn by 2030 Wealth milestones trigger significant giving A study from Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management1 found […]
International Women’s Day – closing the gender wealth gap
Financial inequality leaves many women with fewer financial resources and less security in later years One of the most significant drivers of the gender wealth gap is the difference in pension savings There are opportunities at every stage to strengthen financial wellbeing and close the gender wealth gap Despite decades of progress, financial inequality between […]