Whilst it can be tempting to save and manage money by taking a DIY approach to finances, it could end up costing you money. Research suggests that eight in ten people overestimate their own financial capability and could be making decisions that aren’t right for them as a result. Failing to seek financial advice when […]
Thousands of investors have been sucked into putting their money into unsuitable mini-bond products following extensive advertising, particularly on social media. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has now clamped down on the marketing of such products following a scandal. But many are likely to lose their money. What is a mini-bond? A mini-bond is effectively […]
Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) have been around for 25 years! Over those years, they’ve become an important part of investment portfolios for many people. But are they the right option for you and how could they fit into your wider plans? Back in November 1994, then Chancellor Kenneth Clarke unveiled VCTs as part of his […]
Managing pension contributions and tax liability can be tricky. If you’re affected by the tapered allowance, it can be even more challenging. The Secretary of State for Health and Social care has announced there will be a review into the impact of the tapered allowance and its impact on NHS staff. But it’s not just […]
Children born today have a one in four chance of celebrating their 100th birthday. It’s progress that should certainly be celebrated but one that also leads to financial questions. How do you prepare for a life that could span ten decades? Many parents choose to put some money aside for children to give them a […]
When you first think of seeking financial advice, it might be the calculations that you focus on. The figures are an important part of understanding your financial situation and what you can achieve. However, it’s just a small part of what financial planning is about and where it adds value. Financial Planning Week was celebrated […]
Banks scams are on the rise and becoming more sophisticated. Every year, thousands of people are duped into authorising payments to fraudsters that they may not be able to receive compensation for. Understanding how criminals operate could help protect your money. According to figures from Finance UK, more than ÂŁ616 million was stolen by criminals […]
Bonds are a common feature in many investment portfolios, alongside stocks, shares and cash assets. But how do they fit into your investment portfolio and what percentage should be allocated to bonds? What is a bond? Before diving into purchasing bonds, it’s important to understand exactly what they are and, therefore, how they can be […]
Research suggests thousands could be missing out on investment returns in their pension because they haven’t updated their retirement age. Remaining engaged with your pension can help you create a retirement income that meets expectations. So, what should you review when looking at your pension? 1. What fund are you invested in? Typically, a Defined […]
Auto-enrolment has seen millions more saving into a pension. However, research suggests that those aged over 60 are far more likely to opt-out of their Workplace Pension scheme. Whilst it’s understandable that you may decide not to pay into a pension as you approach retirement, what could it cost you? Auto-enrolment means that the majority […]
