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Investment market update: January 2022

While many countries have now eased Covid-19 restrictions, the knock-on effects of lockdown continue to affect economies, businesses, and households. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), inflation in the 38 richest countries has reached 5.8% – a 25-year high. The findings also highlight the driving forces behind inflation rates. If food and energy are excluded, year-on-year …

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10 tips if you’re taking on a property project

Whether you plan to purchase a fixer-upper or want to take on a project in your current home, a renovation can help you put your stamp on a property and increase its value. If you’re taking on a large-scale project, here are 10 tips to help you stay on track and achieve your goals. 1. Commit to a full building …

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8 things to do to give your finances a spring clean

As you start to put winter behind you, you may be thinking of giving your home a spring clean or the projects you want to take on over the next few months. As you do, don’t forget to think about your finances. Regularly reviewing your finances and plans for the future can help keep you on track. It can provide …

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Want to invest but don’t know where to start? Here are the basics

Have you thought about investing but are worried you don’t know enough to start? Research suggests that if you do, you’re not alone, but getting to grips with the basics doesn’t have to be challenging. According to a Royal Mint survey, more than half of UK adults want to get into investing. It’s a step that can help them grow …

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Pension drawdown: Are you taking a sustainable income?

Flexi-access drawdown can provide retirees with more freedom to create an income that suits their lifestyle. However, Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) figures suggest that many retirees are taking unsustainable amounts from their pensions. It could mean they run out of money during retirement. The government introduced Pension Freedoms in 2015, which provide retirees with more ways to access their pension …