A group of colleagues sitting around a conference table.

Phasing into retirement: The emotional and financial benefits

Last month, you read about how retirement is changing, with almost half of workers aged over 50 exploring phasing into retirement. There are plenty of reasons why more people are considering a gradual retirement, including the emotional and financial benefits this option could offer. A gradual retirement could help you retain a sense of purpose and social life When thinking …

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How a cashflow model can turn retirement anxiety into excitement

Retiring should be a milestone you look forward to. It’s a chance to spend your time how you want and do the things you’ve been putting off because work has been in the way. Yet, sadly, research shows UK adults associate spending their retirement savings with negative words, and it could prevent them from enjoying the next chapter of their …

City of London.

Investment market update: September 2025

There were ups and downs for investors during September 2025, with disappointing economic data dampening the market at times. However, some positive outcomes also emerged. Read on to find out what might have influenced your investment portfolio’s recent performance. Investors turn to gold as market uncertainty continues in September 2025 The price of gold reached a record high of $3,508.50 …

A couple cooking a meal together.

The pros and cons of overpaying your mortgage

Overpaying your mortgage to clear it sooner sounds like an excellent step to take if you’re in a position to do so. However, it’s not always straightforward, and in some cases, other options may suit you better. Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of overpaying your mortgage. 2 reasons to overpay your mortgage 1. You could …

A couple unpacking boxes after moving home.

How the Labour government could change Stamp Duty in the Autumn Budget

On 26 November, the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, will deliver the government’s Autumn Budget, setting out fiscal plans for the year ahead and beyond. There’s speculation that some of the announcements could affect homeowners, including changes to Stamp Duty. According to a September 2025 article from the BBC, the National Institute of Economic and Social Research estimates the chancellor will need …

Three office workers crossing on some steps.

Why stock market volatility can trigger financial bias

When markets experience volatility, even the most level-headed investor can let their emotions or other influences affect their decisions. Read on to find out why volatility can trigger financial biases and how these might affect you. For the average investor, it’s important to take a long-term approach. While returns cannot be guaranteed, investing over a longer time frame gives markets …

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What footballer Kevin Keegan tells us about retirement planning

This guest blog was written by Chris Budd, who wrote the original Financial Wellbeing Book as well as The Four Cornerstones of Financial Wellbeing. He founded the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and has written more than 100 episodes of the Financial Wellbeing Podcast. For most people, retiring is a goal. Pick an age, create a financial plan to make sure …

Investment market update: August 2025

While global government policy – particularly US trade tariffs – continued to influence the value of investments in August 2025, many markets experienced less volatility compared to the start of the year. Read on to discover what factors may have affected the performance of your investments in August 2025. Hopes of a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine boost markets …

Taken out a new mortgage? Don’t forget to review your financial protection

Taking out a new mortgage deal could represent a shift in your financial commitments. So, reviewing whether your financial protection is still appropriate could ensure you have a vital safety net should you face a shock. Read on to learn how financial protection can provide security in unexpected situations, and what to consider when taking out new cover. Financial protection …

How a mortgage adviser could help you secure a buy-to-let mortgage

Investing in property can be an exciting opportunity. It might provide you with a regular income stream now and, if property prices rise, a lump sum in the future. However, securing a buy-to-let mortgage isn’t always straightforward. The good news is that working with a mortgage adviser means you have the support of a professional every step of the way. …