Mortgage deals have a record low shelf life, and the market is changing quickly. If you’re searching for a new mortgage, it can make it difficult to find the right deal for you. In a situation like this, a mortgage broker can lend support. The average mortgage shelf life has fallen to just 15 days According to a report in …
You may have come across the term “asset class” when reviewing your finances or investing, but what does it mean? And which asset class suits your goals? In finance, asset class is often used to describe a group of investments that are similar and are subject to the same regulations. There are four main asset classes – cash, fixed income, …
When you look at investment performance with the benefit of hindsight, you may think you could predict how markets will move. Yet, markets are unpredictable and expert forecasts prove how difficult timing the market is. Every investor has heard the advice “buy low, sell high”. So, it can be tempting to try and guess how investments will perform in the …
Tax relief could boost your pension and mean you have more financial freedom in retirement. Yet it’s something that you may overlook when reviewing your pension, as analysis suggests that some workers aren’t claiming their full entitlement. In fact, according to a report in the Telegraph, higher- and additional-rate taxpayers could have missed out on as much as £811 million …
Investors should expect further volatility in the markets in 2023, experts suggest. Economies around the world are facing recession due to factors including high inflation and rising interest rates. The International Monetary Fund’s Kristalina Georgieva predicts that a third of the global economy will be in recession this year. The World Bank also has a similar outlook, as it cut …
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “inspire inclusion”. While huge strides have been made in improving financial independence for women, there’s still a significant gap. It could harm your overall wellbeing and your options in the future. If you want to take steps to improve your long-term financial security, there are things you can do now. 1. Don’t …
When you’re deciding how to pass on assets and who you want them to go to, understanding their value, and how this might change, is crucial. Last month, you read about why estate planning should be part of your overall financial and life plan. Now, read on to discover why getting to grips with what your estate covers is important. …
Over the last year, interest rates have increased from historic lows. Fixed-rate mortgage payers that have been shielded from the rises so far could find their outgoings rise if their deal ends in 2023. The Bank of England increased its base interest rate several times over the last 12 months to tackle high levels of inflation. For savers, it’s been …
You have until 5 April 2023 to make the most of your ISA allowance for the current tax year. If you want to boost your savings or investments, adding more to your ISA could make sense. For the 2022/23 tax year, you can add up to £20,000 to adult ISAs. The allowance is for each individual. So, if you’re planning …
If you’re saving into a defined contribution (DC) pension, you can choose how you access the money. You’ll also be responsible for ensuring the savings provide you with an income for the rest of your life, so understanding the different options available to you is crucial. Most workers saving for retirement will have a DC pension. This is where your …
