Flexi-access drawdown can provide retirees with more freedom to create an income that suits their lifestyle. However, Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) figures suggest that many retirees are taking unsustainable amounts from their pensions. It could mean they run out of money during retirement. The government introduced Pension Freedoms in 2015, which provide retirees with more ways to access their pension …
Investment market update: December 2021
As 2021 drew to a close, the Covid-19 pandemic and its consequences continued to affect economies. The first case of the Omicron variant was reported in South Africa at the end of November 2021. It quickly spread and some counties began to reintroduce restrictions and offer booster vaccine shots. As before, the measures taken to reduce the spread of Omicron …
Long-term fixed mortgages are now on offer, but are they a good choice for you?
Mortgage lenders are providing borrowers with more options. Borrowers can now choose a fixed-rate deal that would last for the full term of their mortgage, which can provide certainty over the long term. However, it’s not the right option for every homeowner, and there are some things you need to carefully consider before you choose a deal. A fixed-rate mortgage …
Why now is the perfect time to start thinking about the end of the tax year
2022 may only have just started, but now is an excellent time to start thinking about the end of the tax year. Planning now can help you make the most of allowances and reduce how much tax you pay. The 2021/22 tax year will end on 5 April 2022. This date is when many tax-efficient allowances will reset. In some …
The majority of divorcees are overlooking pensions and it could leave them financially vulnerable
Going through a divorce is difficult. So, it’s not surprising that many couples are failing to consider their long-term future and whether they need to discuss splitting pensions. Overlooking pensions, which may be among your largest assets, could leave you financially vulnerable in the long term. The law changed in 2000 to allow pensions to be shared in divorce. However, …
8 things to do if you’re retiring in 2022
If you’ll be retiring this year, you may be looking forward to more free time to focus on what you enjoy. As you start making plans, you need to set out your expectations and how you’ll create an income. To do that, a bit of planning is required, and these eight steps are a great place to start. 1. Set …
5 steps that could provide financial security for your partner if you pass away
If you’re creating a financial plan as a couple, you should consider the effect one of you passing away could have. If one person’s income or assets are vital for the household’s financial security, it could leave the other in financial difficulty should they pass away. One of the questions couples sometimes ask is: “Will my partner be financially secure …