Investment market update: July 2022

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding inflation, the war in Ukraine, interest rates and the potential for recession has created a lot of uncertainty so far this year. This uncertainty has caused real volatility in global stock markets. Indeed, the first of 2022 was one of the worst first half years for global markets in more than […]
Mortgage lenders are told they can scrap affordability rules. Here’s why it’s still important to assess your budget

The Bank of England’s (BoE) decision to scrap some affordability tests for people taking out a mortgage could mean you’re able to borrow higher sums. However, it’s still crucial that you have confidence in your budget and don’t overextend yourself. From 1 August 2022, lenders won’t have to carry out affordability tests that assess how […]
5 unexpected lessons you can learn about finances from Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl’s books are known for colourful characters, fantastic adventures, and simply being fun. As a child, they’re the perfect books for capturing your imagination. As an adult, you can even find some unexpected money lessons nestled among the talking creatures and magic. Here are five financial lessons you can learn from the stories of […]
How self-employed workers can create financial security amid economic uncertainty

As a self-employed worker, it can be more difficult to manage your finances. Your income may vary or not be as reliable as those who are employed. According to a study from Scottish Widows, almost half of self-employed workers said their income fluctuates. The research suggests that self-employed people could be more susceptible to income […]
5 crucial things you need to consider when reviewing your estate plan

If you have an estate plan, you shouldn’t simply forget about it. Instead, regular reviews can help ensure it continues to reflect your wishes and circumstances. Sometimes you may have a specific reason to review your estate plan. Life milestones can often cause you to reflect on the steps you’ve previously taken. Experiences like getting […]
Young workers are on track to breach the pension Lifetime Allowance, and it shows the power of compounding

Young workers calculating how much they need to save for retirement can feel like they face an impossible challenge. Yet, research suggests that a significant proportion could be on track to exceed the Lifetime Allowance (LTA). The findings highlight how valuable saving early and the compounding effect of investments are. The LTA is the total […]