Blended families are formed when two people live together with children from previous relationships. They are increasingly common in the UK, and can work extremely well. However it is worth considering the estate planning implications. It is possible to accidentally leave family members without any inheritance due to a lack of planning or appropriate legal …
Labour’s new policy on inheritance tax means that more estates could pay inheritance tax (IHT) in future. Whilst there are plenty of legitimate ways to reduce an IHT liability, there’s one which we often forget despite it being very simple. That’s giving money to your loved ones. Although gifting is simple, and might be something …
Marriage might be an unlikely winner from Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ controversial first budget. Whilst there have been no changes to inheritance tax allowances, more assets, most notably unspent pension funds on death, will be included in estates for inheritance tax purposes in future. This means that unmarried couples who might not have seen the value …
Introduction The US election provided another definitive moment in what has been a politically charged year. With many countries holding elections in 2024, analysts have been second guessing what markets will do for some time. Whether Trump is popular outside the US is debatable, but his election victory was convincing and markets have responded positively …
After all the noise and drama of the recent Budget, it is worth noting that the allowances and reliefs available for the core investment products that our clients use remain in place. ISA allowances and pension contributions remain intact. The dreaded Lifetime Allowance has not been resurrected, and rumours of the removal of pension tax-free …
The headlines will focus on the government’s decision to charge inheritance tax on any unused pension funds or death benefits. This is only part of the story, and there are a number of changes in the budget which makes a review of potential inheritance tax liabilities more important than ever. These measures are forecast to …
The Laffer Curve is a concept accredited to economist Dr. Arthur Laffer. Laffer admitted that whilst he gave it a name, it’s been around as an idea in one form or another since the 14th century, when Muslim philosopher Ibn Khaldun wrote about it. It was also referenced in John Maynard Keynes work. In simple …
Introduction Labour’s first budget for 14 years dominated the headlines, but with a US election in early November and constant attention paid to inflation figures, corporate results and interest cuts around the world, there was plenty of other financial news throughout October. UK £40bn of additional tax revenue was announced by the new Chancellor, Rachel …
In an extensive address marking Labour’s return after nearly 15 years, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the Autumn Statement on 30th October 2024. Below, we provide a summary of the key changes relevant to the financial planning sector. For a detailed breakdown of tax rates and allowances for 2025/26, visit www.gov.uk Taxation and Non-Domicile Regulations Starting …
The energy price cap rose by 10% from 1st October. Many people have been submitting meter readings and some are switching to fixed tariffs ahead of the change. Why Submit A Reading Now? Whilst you will be charged at the new price whether you submit your reading now or later, many energy bills are based …
