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 …
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, …
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 …
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 …
Revealed: A long-term investment strategy could be key to beating inflation
Over the last year, you may have been affected by soaring inflation, rising interest rates, and volatile market conditions. The good news is that research shows a long-term investment strategy could help you grow your wealth despite a challenging environment. Inflation has been high over the last 12 months, and it could have eroded the value of some of your …
Corporation Tax hike: Here are the essentials business owners need to know
The rate of Corporation Tax your business pays may have changed for the 2023/24 tax year. It could affect your profit margins and long-term plans, so it’s crucial you understand what the new rates could mean for your business. After a series of announcements and U-turns in 2022, you may not be fully aware of the changes to Corporation Tax. …
4 essential Budget announcements that could boost your pension
In a bid to encourage early retirees back to work, chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled several changes to pension allowances during the Budget. The announcements could mean you’re able to save more in your pension and boost your retirement income. Here are the four key pension changes Hunt announced. 1. The Lifetime Allowance will be abolished Previously, the Lifetime Allowance (LTA) …
Investment market update: March 2023
As inflation persists, central banks were forced to announce further rises to interest rates in March. Coupled with the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, it has been an uncertain few weeks in the world economy. As an investor, remember that volatility in the markets is normal. Take a long-term view of your portfolio’s performance and focus on your overall goals …
6 helpful ways to keep yourself active during retirement
A strong financial plan will help you to stay on course to meet your long-term goals, as you navigate your way through life towards your eventual retirement. The aim is that when that day arrives, you’ll be in a position to live the kind of lifestyle you desire. It can be easy to focus on the financial aspects of your …
Self-employed? Read these 6 useful tips before applying for a mortgage
Self-employed workers have always faced additional challenges when trying to get on the property ladder. But stringent affordability tests mean it’s becoming even more difficult to secure a mortgage. Government statistics show in 2021 around 13% of the UK’s labour force was self-employed. So, the barriers for self-employed workers are something thousands of aspiring homeowners need to overcome every year. …