Investment market update: August 2023
Globally, signs suggest the pace of inflation is slowing. However, businesses in some sectors are struggling and weighing on economies. Read on to discover some of the factors that affected investment markets in August 2023. According to a Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) from JP Morgan, reports indicated that manufacturing in Asia, Europe and the US […]
The 2023 parents’ essential guide to student loans
Heading to university is an exciting time for new students. As a parent, you may feel proud of your child’s achievements, but it’s normal to feel apprehensive as they potentially move out and embrace independence for the first time. You might also worry about the financial burden of student loans. Read on to discover what […]
7 practical reasons to make a Lasting Power of Attorney now
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) could provide you with protection when you’re most vulnerable by giving someone you trust the ability to make decisions on your behalf. Yet, a survey in the Independent, found that less than half of married couples have an LPA. If it’s something you don’t have in place, here are […]
Financial planning, like space exploration, needs careful management after success
Space exploration is pushing new boundaries and more than six decades after Yuri Gagarin became the first man in space, historic launches and exciting milestones continue to capture public imagination. Yet, like financial planning, the period after reaching a goal requires just as much attention as those that garner coverage. On 23 August 2023, India […]
Should you take your pension tax-free lump sum to kickstart retirement?
When you access your pension, you can often take a tax-free lump sum. While this may seem an attractive way to fund your early retirement plans, there are some essential things you need to consider first. You can usually access your pension from the age of 55, rising to 57 in 2028. You can typically […]
Investing 101: 4 useful questions to answer when reviewing your portfolio
Over the last few months, you’ve read about the potential benefits of investing, what to consider when creating a risk profile, and how you could improve tax efficiency. Now, read on to discover why reviewing your investment portfolio is a crucial part of managing your assets over the long term. Reviewing your investments too frequently […]
Investment market update: July 2023
Data from economies around the world indicate business output and confidence could be slowing. Read on to find out what influenced the investment market in July 2023. Despite some data suggesting there could be a downturn in some areas, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lifted its global growth forecast for 2023. The organisation now […]
Here’s what mortgage lenders consider when carrying out affordability tests
Applying for a mortgage can be stressful. You might worry a lender will reject your application and the effect it could have on your plans. A better understanding of what lenders are considering when making a decision may be useful and could reduce anxiety. Even if you’ve been through the mortgage process before, rising interest […]
Why emotional decision-making could be costing you investment returns
It can be difficult not to let your emotions influence the decisions you make. When investing, emotional decision-making could be harming your portfolio’s performance and your ability to reach your goals. While you try to make investment decisions based on logic and facts, it can be easy for emotions, from fear to excitement, to play […]
Baffling financial jargon means Brits are overlooking ways to boost their wealth
Brits are struggling with financial jargon and aren’t sure where to start with investing. It could mean some people are missing out on opportunities to increase their wealth. A survey from Lloyds Bank found that 50% of Brits say they were scared of investing. Furthermore, 38% say financial jargon is baffling. Misunderstanding common financial terms […]
