City of London skyline

Investment market update: May 2023

Economies and businesses still face challenges, but statistics indicate some of the pressure, including rising inflation, is starting to ease. Read on to find out what affected investment markets in May 2023. Remember, you should have a long-term outlook when investing. You should have an investment portfolio that reflects your goals and you feel confident in. Please contact us if …

A family unpacking boxes in a new home.

100% mortgages return to the market. Are they a solution for first-time buyers?

Aspiring homeowners who are struggling to save a deposit could now make use of 100% mortgages as they return to the market. While they could be valuable, there are some drawbacks to weigh up. Mortgages that don’t require a deposit have been available in the past. However, they’ve been absent from the market for several years as lenders sought to …

A couple packing items into a box in a kitchen.

Planning to downsize? Here are 3 excellent reasons it could make sense

Downsizing your home as you get older is a common step. If it’s something you’ve been thinking about, there are great reasons to take the leap. Yet, research also suggests many people don’t go through with their plans, so being aware of the potential challenges is important too. According to research from Key, almost 3 in 10 over-45s say they …

A man reading a book

Why inaction is a crucial part of successful investing

When you think about investing, it’s probably the actions you take that come to mind. That could be researching a fund or actively investing in a company by purchasing shares. However, the steps you don’t take are just as important for your portfolio to be successful. That may sound strange, but not acting on impulses or short-term market movement is …

Someone opening a safe.

Should you lock in your savings interest rate now?

Over the last 18 months, interest rates have increased and the rate your savings could earn has slowly been rising. However, with some experts predicting they will begin to fall towards the end of the year, should you lock in an interest rate now? Double-digit inflation figures have led to the Bank of England increasing interest rates The Bank of …

Older couple cycling past a field.

Want to retire early? Financial planning could make it a reality

Retiring early is an aspiration for many workers looking forward to greater freedom. If early retirement is something you’re dreaming about, a survey suggests financial planning could help you turn it into a reality and enjoy the next chapter of your life more. A Standard Life study found, on average, people receiving financial advice plan to retire at 66 – …

5 Things to Consider When Looking for an Early Retirement

The thought of early retirement can be incredibly enticing. The idea of having more time to spend with family, travel the world, pursue hobbies or simply relax is an attractive prospect. However, early retirement is not without its challenges and requires careful consideration and planning. With that said, let’s explore the key factors you need to take into account when …

The outside of the Bank of England, London.

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. While many things can affect short-term market movements, remember you should invest with a long-term goal in mind. If you have any questions about your portfolio or investment performance, …

A couple look at a house

Could property present a viable alternative to pension savings for retirement?

Retirement planning is a way to ensure that you can generate an income that supports the kind of lifestyle you lead in later life, whatever that looks like. While your pension is likely to provide the foundation of your income during retirement, fears about inflation and volatile markets are encouraging people to look for alternatives, and you may be considering …

Someone holding up a thermometer.

Statutory Sick Pay provides workers with “very little insurance”, says think tank

The level of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) increased in April 2023. Yet, ill workers are still likely to face financial hardships as it provides “very little insurance”, according to a Resolution Foundation report. The findings highlight how important having a financial safety net is. As of May 2023, eligible employees will receive £109.40 a week under SSP if they need …