News

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The early signs of dementia that may be important to know

We all become more forgetful as we get older. But can you differentiate what is a normal part of the ageing process and what are the early signs of dementia? Although there is no current cure for dementia, recognising the early symptoms so you can get a diagnosis as soon as possible is still very important. A dementia or Alzheimer’s ...
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Everything you need to know about Stamp Duty

When you’re buying a property, Stamp Duty can be a significant expense that you need to consider. So, read on to find out when the tax is paid and how to calculate a potential bill. According to data published in IFA Magazine in June 2025, the government collected £14.1 billion in Stamp Duty in the 12 months to the end ...
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5 surprising and unconventional economic indicators

How do you judge whether an economy is sliding into a recession? Some unconventional theories suggest looking at the hemline of skirts or sales of ties could provide valuable insights due to patterns in consumer behaviour. According to finance corporation JP Morgan, as of the end of May 2025, there was a 40% risk of a US and global recession ...
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The age you can access your pension may rise. Could it affect your retirement?

In April 2028, the age you can usually access your pension, known as the “normal minimum pension age” (NMPA), will rise from 55 to 57. So, if you hope to retire at 55, you might need to update your retirement plan. Even if your planned retirement date seems far away, creating a plan now could help you bridge a potential ...
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How to prepare your loved ones for the “great wealth transfer”

Passing on your wealth to loved ones could transform their lives and mean they have more opportunities in the future. However, to get the most out of the “great wealth transfer”, younger generations need to be prepared to manage their inheritance. According to September 2024 data from Vanguard, it’s estimated $18.3 trillion (£13.45 trillion) in wealth will be transferred globally ...
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Trump tariffs: what’s happening in the markets and how to respond

The global economy is facing significant disruption following President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of trade tariffs. These sweeping measures have triggered sharp declines in stock markets worldwide, leaving many investors and businesses concerned about the potential long-term impact.   Market reactions to tariffs This morning (7th April 2025), the UK’s FTSE 100 index fell by nearly 6%, reflecting widespread unease about ...
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Spring Statement 2025: Key Changes and What They Mean for Your Finances

The Spring Statement 2025 has brought several important changes that could affect your personal finances. With lower growth forecasts, inflation expectations, and new welfare reforms, it’s crucial to understand how these updates could impact your financial planning. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and tips on how to adjust your strategy accordingly. Economic Outlook – Slower Growth, Higher Inflation ...
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Investment market update: November 2024

On 5 November 2024, US citizens voted for their next president, and the election had a knock-on effect on investment markets and business prospects around the world. Republican Party nominee Donald Trump will serve a second term as president of the US. Trump has previously spoken about imposing harsh import tariffs, including a tariff of up to 60% on goods ...
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Investment market update: October 2024

While inflation is stabilising in many major economies, markets continue to experience some volatility, which may have affected your investment portfolio.  According to the latest International Monetary Fund’s Global Financial Stability Report, markets could be underestimating the risks of conflicts and upcoming elections. Indeed, the rising price of gold suggests some investors are seeking a safe haven amid news of ...
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How to spot a real deal during Black Friday sales

Spotting a great Black Friday deal might be harder than you think – especially after Which? reported that 98% of products that were on sale in 2021 were cheaper or the same as their Black Friday price at other times in the year. In fact, 86% of the items had also been the same price or cheaper in the six ...
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