Investment market update: January 2026
Investment market update: January 2026 Geopolitical tensions and threats of trade tariffs continued to impact global investment markets at the start of 2026. Read on to find out what factors may have affected your investments at the start of 2026. Markets experienced highs, but geopolitical tensions continue to cause volatility On 2 January, the first […]
Smart tips that could help first-time buyers pay off their mortgage quicker
Smart tips that could help first-time buyers pay off their mortgage quicker The amount borrowed by the average first-time buyer has reached a record high as loosened affordability tests mean some can borrow more. According to a Guardian article (15 December 2025), the average first-time buyer borrowed £210,800 in the year to September 2025. While […]
The money lessons you can teach children at every stage to boost their financial literacy
The money lessons you can teach children at every stage to boost their financial literacy Financial literacy was first introduced into the national curriculum back in 2014, aimed at children aged between 11 and 16. However, the delivery was inconsistent, as the requirement wasn’t mandatory across all schools. Now, as part of a curriculum assessment, […]
6 in 10 over-45s are underestimating the cost of care by thousands of pounds
6 in 10 over-45s are underestimating the cost of care by thousands of pounds Brits could face a worrying shortfall if they need care later in life. A report from the Just Group (8 December 2025) suggests that 6 in 10 over-45s are underestimating the cost of a care home by thousands of pounds. Industry […]
2 reasons to mark the new tax year in your calendar
2 reasons to mark the new tax year in your calendar On 5 April 2026, the current tax year will end, and the new one will start the following day. Making a note of the deadline in your calendar could help you make the most of tax breaks as part of your financial plan. Here’s […]
The power of pension tax relief and how it could boost your retirement income
The power of pension tax relief and how it could boost your retirement income If you’re saving for retirement, you will want to get the most out of what you’re putting into your workplace or private pension. Fortunately, there are plenty of tax efficiencies when you save your wealth into a pension. Indeed, any investment […]
Your Autumn Budget update, and what it means for you
Your Autumn Budget update, and what it means for you After months of speculation and rumour, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has delivered the Autumn Budget for 2025. In this update, we’ll explain the key changes and what they mean for you. Last year, in her maiden Budget, the Chancellor sought to balance the public finances with […]
How financial planning could give you the confidence to spend more
How financial planning could give you the confidence to spend more The importance of saving is drummed into us from a very early age. As a child, for example, you may have had a moneybox and been encouraged to save your spare coins. As you get older, this extends into saving for university, saving up […]
Why successful investing starts with your mindset, not the markets
Why successful investing starts with your mindset, not the markets What’s the most important factor affecting the performance of your investments? Your mind might jump to the ups and downs of the market, and they do have an effect. When share prices rise, so too will the value of your portfolio. However, the markets aren’t […]
3 valuable ways to create a guaranteed income in retirement
3 valuable ways to create a guaranteed income in retirement According to a September 2025 Financial Planning Today article, 39% of people say a guaranteed income is their main priority in retirement. Knowing how much income you’ll receive from certain sources can provide the certainty you need to enjoy retirement with greater confidence. There are […]