Investment market update: January 2025

Concerns around potential trade wars following President Trump’s inauguration weighed on investment markets in January 2025, but there was positive news too. Read on to discover some of the factors that may have affected the performance of your investments. Keep in mind that short-term market movements are part of investing and taking a long-term view is an important investment strategy …

European hidden gems that are perfect for a spring break

With so many headlines about tourists taking over popular holiday spots and governments introducing restrictions, such as tourist taxes and bans on new hotels or souvenir shops, you might find it harder than ever to decide where to travel next. Luckily, Europe is filled with amazing places you can visit to get the authentic experience of that country without fighting …

The guide to securing a mortgage with a poor credit score

Finding a mortgage with a poor credit score may seem like an uphill battle, but it isn’t impossible. If you’re an aspiring homeowner but are worried about how your credit report could affect your chances, read on to discover some of the steps that might help. 1. Save a larger deposit As lenders will view you as more of a …

The cryptocurrency basics you need to know before you consider investing

Even if you’ve never considered investing in cryptocurrency, also known as “cryptoassets”, the chances are, you’ve heard of the term. As more people invest in them, understanding what it means, and the risk associated with investing in these types of assets could be valuable. According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), as of August 2024, around 12% of UK adults, …

Job hopping could be the key to boosting your retirement income

The secret to saving more for your retirement could be regularly switching jobs, figures suggest. In fact, according to FTAdviser in November 2024, those who frequently take new career opportunities have more saved for retirement. For many workers, gone are the days of a job for life. Instead, employees are switching jobs more frequently than ever. Figures from 2024 collected …

A woman in her 60s checking something on her mobile phone.

State Pension: Everything you need to know in 2025/26

For many pensioners, the State Pension provides a foundation to build their retirement income. Whether you’re already claiming the State Pension or it’s still some years away, here’s what you need to know in 2025/26. In the 2025/26 tax year, you can claim the State Pension from the age of 66. However, the age will gradually start to increase from …

Investment market update: December 2024

Political instability in Europe and further afield affected investment markets in December. Read on to find out what other factors may have influenced your investment returns at the end of 2024. Remember to focus on your long-term goals when assessing the performance of your investments. The value of your assets rising and falling is part of investing. What’s important is …

The first-time buyers to securing a mortgage

Preparing to buy your first home can be exciting, but it might also be a milestone you’re feeling apprehensive about. Not only will you be making a large financial commitment, but the process of buying a property can seem complex and filled with jargon. Indeed, according to a survey from Halifax, more than half of under-35s admit they don’t feel …

How you could take advantage of falling interest rates

Interest rates are expected to fall in 2025. If you’re a homeowner, it could present an opportunity to reduce your mortgage repayments and boost your finances overall. The Bank of England (BoE) increased the base interest rate when inflation was high as a way to slow down the rising cost of goods and services. Between December 2021 and August 2023, …