Money is one of the most common sources of stress in relationships and one of the least talked about. In fact, many couples find it easier to discuss almost anything except their finances. Yet open, honest conversations about money don’t weaken relationships. Done well, they can strengthen trust, reduce anxiety, and create a shared sense …
Recent IHT changes affect not only farms but also many family-owned trading businesses. Reviewing your estate now can help protect your assets and ensure relief is claimed where available. New thresholds for relief The Government has adapted plans to impose inheritance tax (IHT) on farms worth more than £1 million. When the new rules come …
Beyond investing – why cashflow planning matters What will you be doing in ten years’ time? Most of us can give a rough answer – perhaps enjoying more free time, travelling, or finally working less – but few of us can say with certainty how our finances will support that vision. In a fast-moving and …
When many people hear the words “estate planning”, they immediately think of very wealthy people with country homes, investment portfolios, or big family businesses. But estate planning is something that affects almost everyone, regardless of their wealth. Whether you own a house, have some savings, or simply want to make life easier for your loved …
The pound slipped in value against both the US dollar and the euro last month, with markets reacting to concerns over economic growth and interest rate expectations. Unfortunately, these shifts are not just abstract market movements, when the pound falls it has a tangible impact on individual finances. A weaker currency affects everything from the …
The State Pension is due to increase by 4.7% next April after the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures were published on 16th September. The ONS data confirmed the latest annual wage growth of 4.7% would be the deciding figure under the State Pension Triple Lock. This uplift, while lower than some recent past …
The Government is weighing up potential reforms to the way capital gains tax (CGT) is applied to property. Reports suggest one option under discussion is whether to alter the generous tax treatment of primary residences, particularly those at the higher end of the housing market. At present, private residence relief means homeowners do not pay …
Inheritance tax (IHT) receipts have hit another record high according to the latest figures from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). HMRC collected £8.2 billion from April 2024 to March 2025, a £750 million increase on last year’s record. Data from HMRC, released on 23 April, revealed IHT receipts continue to soar, with higher receipts during …
Financial scams are a rising problem in the UK, with more than £1.17 billion in financial losses in 2023, according to banking body UK Finance. UK Finance’s most recent figures suggest over £570 million was stolen in the first half of 2024. Almost everyone knows a friend or family member who has been a victim …
Annuity sales hit their highest level in a decade in 2024, with higher rates tempting retirement savers to swap their pension pots for a guaranteed income for life. Insurers sold 89,600 annuities last year, up 24% on the year before – and the highest level since 2013, according to trade body the Association of British …
