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Investment market update: January 2024
Persistently high inflation continues to affect economies and financial markets, as do fears that some countries will fall into a recession in 2024. Discover some of the events that may have affected your investment portfolio in January 2024.
Mortgage availability is rising. Here’s what to consider when narrowing down your options
There were more mortgage options available in January 2024 than at any time since 2008. More choice could be good news for homeowners or first-time buyers searching for a deal, but it could also make it difficult to navigate the options and choose one that’s right for you.
5 handy tips that could help couples create an effective financial plan
Managing your finances as a couple could mean you’re more likely to reach goals, but it can come with challenges too. Here are five handy tips that could help you and your partner build an effective financial plan.
Government borrowing halves and opens room for tax cuts in March’s Budget
Government borrowing was below expectations at the end of 2023. It could mean the chancellor has more scope to make tax cuts or increase public spending in the March Budget. Read about three changes Jeremy Hunt is reportedly considering.
4 excellent reasons you may want to boost your ISA now
With the end of the tax year approaching, now could be the perfect time to boost your ISA if you haven’t already used your £20,000 annual allowance. It’s a step that could reduce your tax liability, whether you want to save or invest.
The pension Annual Allowance increased in 2023/24. Have you reviewed your contributions?
In 2023/24, your pension Annual Allowance is up to £60,000 compared to £40,000 in the previous tax year. If you haven’t reviewed whether it could be worthwhile to increase your contributions following the rise, read this article to discover why it could be financially savvy.
Investment market update: October 2023
Discover what affected investment markets, from ongoing high inflation to weakening consumer demand, in October 2023.
Did you use the Help-to-Buy scheme? Inflation could affect your repayments
Help-to-Buy equity loans are affected by inflation. Homeowners that used the scheme could find their interest payments rise at the same time as mortgage repayments may increase placing pressure on household budgets.
How much life insurance will provide your family with security?
Life insurance could provide your family with financial security if the worst should happen. Understanding the level of cover that’s right for you may provide peace of mind. Discover three useful ways to calculate a guideline here.
How to help your family manage your affairs when you pass away
Planning for your death can be emotionally difficult, but it could be a huge help to your loved ones.
Research suggests administering an estate after a loved one has passed away can affect mental health and finances. Read on to learn more about some of the steps you could take to help your family manage your affairs.
More people than ever celebrate their 100th birthday. Here’s why it affects financial plans
A record number of people are celebrating their 100th birthday. In fact, over a century, the number of centenarians increased 127-fold. Rising longevity means thinking about the long term, as making financial decisions could become even more important.
2 key reasons why you may want to update your plan during a financial review
Regular financial reviews may help keep you on track to meet your goals and give you confidence in the steps you’re taking. As well as reviewing your assets, you might also want to make changes to your plan.
Investment market update: July 2023
While inflation is easing in many countries, data still suggests households and businesses are facing challenges. For investors, it could mean portfolios experience volatility over the coming months. Read some of the factors that affected the markets in July 2023 here.
Here’s what mortgage lenders consider when carrying out affordability tests
Applying for a mortgage can be stressful, and you may worry a lender will reject your application. Understanding what they consider during affordability tests could put your mind at ease and highlight potential issues you may be able to fix.
Why emotional decision-making could be costing you investment returns
Letting your emotions influence your investment decisions could be having a larger effect than you think. A survey suggests paying too much attention to the news and taking too little risk due to fear are two of the biggest mistakes investors could be making.
A decade after introducing auto-enrolment, the government confirms plans to extend it
The government has set out plans to expand pension auto-enrolment. It means more workers, including those that work part-time, could start saving for their retirement for the first time.
A grocery shop would cost just 45p in 1940s when the first supermarket opened its doors
75 years ago, the UK’s first supermarket opened its doors in London. Back in the 1940s, a grocery shop would set you back just 45p. Discover how inflation has affected the value of your money here.
Investing 101: What you need to know about tax efficiency and your investment options
This month, read about two key decisions you’ll need to make when investing – whether you should invest in shares or through a fund, and how to make your investments tax-efficient.
Investment market update: April 2023
High inflation continues to affect economies around the world. However, there are positive signs of recovery, and some surveys indicate that people are starting to feel more confident about the future.
Revealed: A long-term investment strategy could be key to beating inflation
Over the last year, you may have been affected by soaring inflation, rising interest rates, and volatile market conditions. The good news is that research shows a long-term investment strategy could help you grow your wealth despite a challenging environment.