A man putting a ballot in an election box.

Investment market update: June 2024

2024 is a historic election year – elections will take place in 50 countries. More than 2 billion voters will head to the polls in countries including the UK, US, France, and South Africa throughout the year. Political uncertainty can affect investment markets and there was evidence of this in June. During market volatility, remember […]

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Higher-rate taxpayers: Beware of the 60% tax trap

The tapering of the Personal Allowance means some higher-rate taxpayers effectively pay an Income Tax rate of 60%, sometimes without realising. Fortunately, if you’re affected, there could be ways to reduce your tax bill. A report in the Telegraph suggests 1.35 million workers were affected by the 60% tax trap in 2023/24. Collectively, they paid […]

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A woman looks at her laptop in shock.

How to effectively protect your finances from criminals

Identity theft is a significant problem in the UK. Indeed, Infosecurity Magazine reports that 4.3% of the population – that’s 1.9 million Brits – had their identity stolen and used by fraudsters to open a financial account in 2023. Your private information is incredibly powerful. You can use it to take out loans and credit […]

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78% of retirees could be missing out on investment returns by accessing their pension early

According to research from Scottish Widows, more than three-quarters of retirees could be missing out on potential investment returns by accessing their pension before their retirement date. Understanding the implications of withdrawing money from your pension could help you to make a decision that’s right for you. Read on to find out some of the […]

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A man repairing a watch.

How “time travelling” as part of your financial plan could help you secure your goals

Imagine you could time travel to understand how your financial decisions today might affect your lifestyle in 10 or 20 years. You may be in a better position to turn your goals into a reality. Read on to find out how working with a financial planner could give you a glimpse into the future. Time […]

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A woman sitting with a suitcase.

The value of financial planning: How it could help you achieve your aspirations

Often one of the biggest benefits of a bespoke financial plan is that it allows you to devise a blueprint to follow, with your goals placed at the centre. It’s a strategy that could help you focus on what you want to achieve in life and make working with a professional even more valuable to […]

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A man voting using a ballot box.

Investment market update: May 2024

On the back of data showing some countries have exited recessions at the end of the first quarter of 2024 and inflation falling, several market indexes reached record highs in May. Read on to find out what else may have affected the markets and your investment portfolio. UK Dominating headlines towards the end of May […]

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Two people walking along the coast in Port Isaac, Cornwall

5 breathtaking coastal walks you can take this summer in the UK

The UK boasts some of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. Trails across the country can take you through sleepy fishing villages, tumbling clifftops, and unique natural formations that are the stuff of legends. Though your adventure may depend upon the whim of the infamously temperamental British climate, there are stretches of the coast […]

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A woman using her phone in a café.

Explained: When do you need to declare the interest earned on savings?

Rising interest rates have been fantastic news for savers. But it might have left you wondering if you need to pay tax on the interest you’ve earned, and how to pay it if you are liable. According to online bank Marcus, 71% of people were not aware that the interest on savings could be taxed. […]

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A man using a laptop.

3 practical ways you could reduce your tax bill in retirement

The number of retirees who could face an Income Tax bill is expected to rise. If your total income could exceed tax thresholds, there might be some steps you can take to reduce your tax bill. The Personal Allowance is the amount of income you can receive before you usually need to pay Income Tax […]

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