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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7 things you need to know before you use equity release

Your home may be one of the largest assets you own, and unlocking property wealth using equity release could significantly boost your funds later in life. According to the Equity Release Council, in the final quarter of 2024, homeowners withdrew around £622 million from their homes. The average person withdrawing a lump sum for the first time received £115,243. A …

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Investment market update: March 2025

Trade wars and fears that tariffs could spark recessions meant investment market volatility continued in March 2025. Read on to find out more about some of the factors that may have affected the value of your investments recently. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development slashed the growth forecast among advanced economies this year due to concerns about trade wars. …

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5 top tips for securing a mortgage

Applying for a mortgage, whether you’re buying your first home or remortgaging, can feel like a daunting task. While you might be putting it off, tackling it sooner could save you money and make it well worth your while over the long term. As mortgage advisers, we’re here to help you find the right mortgage for your needs, and offer …

A doctor talking to a patient.

Why you should make registering a Lasting Power of Attorney a priority

Data released by Scotland’s largest health board has highlighted the potential challenges families could face if a loved one doesn’t have a Power of Attorney in place. According to a BBC report, in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, a third of patients who are delayed getting out of hospital are stuck because they don’t have a Power of Attorney, the …

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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Thinking about investing in crypto? You need to be aware of these signs of a scam

As some cryptocurrencies have delivered large returns in the past, you may be more likely to overlook red flags when you’re assessing an investment opportunity. Yet falling victim to a scam could leave you out of pocket and affect your mental wellbeing, so being aware of the warning signs could be essential. According to the City of London Police, more …

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Why locking in a new mortgage deal could save you money

Even if your current mortgage deal doesn’t expire for a few months, searching the market now could be worthwhile and might even save you money. You can usually lock in a new mortgage deal up to six months before your existing one ends. While it might seem like a non-essential task right now, tackling it sooner rather than later could …