BackInsight, guidance and expertise
If you’d like to explore financial planning in a bit more depth, learn more about investment topics or get to grips with financial concepts that might be new to you, you’ll find everything you need here. Our blog articles bring together our insight, advice and some of the key industry knowledge we’ve acquired over the years.
If you’re looking for more information on something you don’t see here, just get in touch.
Taking an afternoon nap could actually be good for you. Here’s why
Over the past few years, the science surrounding sleep has come on in leaps and bounds. Indeed, you may well … Continued
Are you going to be squeezed into a higher tax band over the next 3 years?
As the cost of living seems to be rising month by month in the UK, perhaps the last thing you … Continued
How to take back control of your business and make it work for you
When you start out running your business, everything seems to move at 100 miles an hour. You’re forced to think … Continued
5 simple steps to effective investing for senior executives
Investing is an important part of being a senior executive. You may earn a healthy salary from what you do, … Continued
Why making pension contributions with your surplus cash can be useful for your business
One of the easiest ways to get money from a business environment into a personal environment is through employer pension … Continued
Your complete guide to financial protection
Financial protection is an important part of creating long-term security. Yet, it’s something that many people overlook. Appropriate financial protection … Continued
How could a company-to-company loan benefit your business?
When you’re deciding what to do with surplus cash in your business, one slightly more innovative option you could choose … Continued
Could you withdraw money from your pension to put in your business?
As a business owner, having access to capital to put into your business can be extremely useful. So, if you’re … Continued
3 practical things to remember in times of economic uncertainty
Over the last few months, you can’t have missed the tough economic headlines. You’ve also likely seen the impact of … Continued
5 important steps to preparing your business for emergencies
The idea of preparing your business in the event of an emergency can quickly fall down the priority list as … Continued
How to tax-efficiently invest surplus cash in your business
You may have noticed on our social feeds over the past few weeks that we’ve been posting various methods to … Continued
Intending to explore flexi-retirement? Here’s what you need to know
Flexi-retirement is an increasingly popular strategy, allowing you to have greater control over the shift from work to retirement. Even … Continued
Working with more than one financial adviser could be detrimental to your money. Here’s why
Engaging the services of a financial adviser or planner can be transformative to how you manage your wealth. A financial … Continued
The top 10 sporting events coming to the UK in summer 2022
It’s fair to say that the UK is addicted to sport. After two years of events being affected by the … Continued
Want to invest surplus business cash? Here’s what you need to know
Investing through your company can be successful, provided you get it right. If you have enough cash in the business … Continued
How borrowing money from your pension can be effective for your business
It’s common practice for business owners to take out borrowing to use in their business. But did you know that … Continued
How withdrawing surplus cash and paying the tax can be effective for your business
There are many strategies that you can employ to make the most of surplus cash in a business. But, if … Continued
How to prepare for the lump sum you’ll receive when selling your business
A key part of your preparations for selling your business is being ready for the windfall that’s coming your way. … Continued
Why business owners only really need to think about one number
Business is all about numbers. From revenue, profit, and cash flow to expenses and salaries, running a business requires you … Continued
Why it’s important to create and update an estate plan with your financial planner
Creating an estate plan for your wealth is just as important as planning for retirement. Yet often, financial planning can … Continued
How could Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) be a tax-efficient way for you to invest?
Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) have become increasingly popular since their inception in 1995, with the tax-efficient investment vehicles experiencing a … Continued
Why lump sum contributions to your pension can reduce your tax liability
As a business owner, you can reduce your company’s tax liability simply by making lump sum contributions to your pension. … Continued
How can a high-interest savings account be a useful home for surplus business cash?
When working out what to do with surplus business cash, some business owners or finance directors decide that they should … Continued
Should you move business property that you own into your pension?
If you own your business premises, either personally or through your company, you may want to consider using your pension … Continued
The useful guide to reaching your retirement goals
Getting the most out of retirement and reaching your goals requires planning. Not thinking about your post-work years until you … Continued
Is doing nothing a good choice for surplus cash in your business?
If you have surplus cash in your business, you may be wondering what to do with it. Choosing to do … Continued
How can buying business premises using your pension be a useful strategy?
If you’re a business owner with a self-invested personal pension (SIPP) or a small self-administered scheme (SSAS), you may be … Continued
We’re officially a Top Rated firm!
Today, VouchedFor have released their Top Rated Guide for 2022, and we’re delighted to announce that we’ve been included as … Continued
Everything you need to know about the 2022 spring statement
Against the backdrop of the continuing war in Ukraine, the chancellor has delivered his spring statement. The war has contributed … Continued
3 helpful things business owners should think about when selling up
There are a lot of different things to consider when you come to sell your business. Important financial aspects such … Continued
Is social media really bad for your mental health?
Technology has no doubt improved our lives in many ways. Social media in particular has become a mainstay for millions … Continued
Do you really understand your pension as well as you need to?
Pensions are one of the most popular ways to save for retirement. Yet worryingly, according to research by Aviva, only … Continued
How to manage your portfolio during a period of market uncertainty
Today, it certainly feels like the world is in a very uncertain place. Authoritarian states are flexing their muscles, with … Continued
What does a continuity plan need to include for your business?
Over the entire course of running your business, it’s easy to become focused on the short term and forget that … Continued
Why you need to pay your “future self” first as a business owner
As a business owner, it can be hard to save money for the future when you’re living for the now. … Continued
10 great ways to stay active during your retirement
Retirement is the time to finally relax and put your feet up after a lifetime of hard work. Though you … Continued
Why does the rise in inflation matter to you and your money?
It’s been almost impossible to miss the stories about inflation that have dominated the news over the past few months. … Continued
Kat Cordiner sets a world record for the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge
Kat Cordiner, Ben’s sister, has smashed a world record for the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge alongside teammates Abby Johnston and … Continued
10 useful reasons business owners should work with a financial planner
As a business owner, having a financial planner you can turn to for advice, support, and guidance can entirely change … Continued
7 useful factors that can increase the value of a business
For many entrepreneurs, running a business has one key goal at the centre of everything: to use the proceeds of … Continued
Struggling with loss aversion when investing? Here’s what you could do
When you’re investing, one of the most difficult elements to overcome can be loss aversion. Loss aversion is a behavioural … Continued
3 really helpful reasons to leave money to charity in your will
Throughout the course of your estate planning, you may have considered leaving money to charity in your will as a … Continued
10 of the best Christmas films to watch with your family
Watching a Christmas film with the family is an unmissable part of the festive season. Years ago, one of the … Continued
How to make sure you’re ready for life after exiting your business
When it comes to selling your business, you need to put in as much time and effort into making your … Continued
How to insure yourself as a business owner to protect you and your family
These past 20 months have been tough for everyone, but they’ve been particularly arduous for UK business owners. According to … Continued
What is an annuity and how useful could they be for you?
Your retirement plans probably revolve around using a pension to provide you with income during your later years. So, you … Continued
Guide: Building a nest egg – How to create financial security for your children and grandchildren
As a parent or grandparent, you may be thinking about ways you can build a nest egg for children or … Continued
What does cashflow forecasting for your family look like?
Every business owner knows the importance of cashflow forecasting and using accurate data to make financial decisions. But have you … Continued
The 10 best luxury advent calendars to open and enjoy this Christmas
Everyone loves an advent calendar – in fact, there are few better feelings than waking up to a quick hit … Continued
What will the increase to the State Pension mean for your retirement?
With the government’s confirmation of a 3.1% rise to the State Pension, you may now be wondering what this will … Continued
Guide: 10 ways to lead a more sustainable life
Sustainability has become a key topic for governments, businesses and communities around the world. If you want to reduce the … Continued
Everything you need to know about the 2021 Autumn Budget
“Employment is up, investment is growing, public services are improving, the public finances are stabilising, and wages are rising.” This … Continued
We’re hiring! Is your next role here at Cordiner Wealth?
We have exciting news this month at Cordiner Wealth as we’re looking to hire a new Associate Financial Planner to … Continued
Kat Cordiner takes on the colossal Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge
In December 2021, Ben’s sister, Kat Cordiner, will be taking on the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. The Talisker Whisky Atlantic … Continued
The 10 best firework displays for Bonfire Night in Yorkshire
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a hot drink or some candy floss while the sky is lit up by a … Continued
Could equity release or downsizing play a big part in your retirement plan?
If you’re fast approaching or already at retirement, it’s sensible to start thinking about how you’re going to support yourself … Continued
Join our team: Associate Financial Planner
Location: Leeds, United Kingdom Salary: £35,000 to £50,000 per annum Position: Full time Job description Are you ready to … Continued
How to make sure you’re ready to sell your business and move on
You’ll have sunk countless hours and no doubt had plenty of stressful, sleepless nights getting your business to where it … Continued
Why a pension can be a useful way to save for your children or grandchildren
When you have children or grandchildren, it’s normal to want to be able to provide for their future in some … Continued
10 delicious and easy recipes for National Baking Week
Baking was one of the nation’s favourite pastimes over the lockdowns in 2020, as everyone turned to their kitchens to … Continued
Guide: Leaving an inheritance vs gifting during your lifetime
Have you thought about how you’ll pass wealth on to those who are important to you? Traditionally, this has been … Continued
National Insurance and Dividend Tax rise as government suspends State Pension triple lock
This week, the government has made two major policy announcements that are likely to directly affect your finances. A much-anticipated … Continued
Guide: The guide to later-life planning and care
When you think about your future, how far ahead do you plan? Perhaps you’ve thought about what your life will … Continued
Why costs really matter to your money and your portfolio
The late, great Jack Bogle – the founder of Vanguard and the grandfather of index investing – left us all … Continued
How might a four-day work week be a good thing for your business?
The idea of the four-day work week has been bandied around a fair amount over the past few years. While … Continued
10 great things to do in Yorkshire once children are back in school
It’s always a treat to have your children and grandchildren at home for the summer. You can finally spend some … Continued
How has Pension Freedoms cost savers £2 billion since 2015?
Since the introduction of Pension Freedoms in 2015, UK savers have enjoyed a greater level of flexibility when it comes … Continued
Why the unhelpful noise of short-term performance could harm your portfolio
Investing is simple, but not easy. The first thing you require is foresight, as well as the discipline to deny … Continued
What to do if you think you don’t have enough to retire
If you’ve planned carefully and budgeted for your goals throughout your lifetime, you should have enough money to live the … Continued
Why your retirement is about more than just your money
Retirement can feel like an entirely financial transaction, especially as that’s the way we often talk about it. You’ve probably … Continued
10 warning signs that tell you you’ve got the wrong financial adviser
You may have enlisted the services of a financial adviser who you think has your best interests at heart. They … Continued
Guide: 10 simple but effective ways to create a better you
Search the internet and you’ll find a myriad of self-help sites aimed at helping you to improve your life and … Continued
Crypto craziness: why cryptocurrencies may not be the investment opportunity they seem
We humans are never lacking in our enthusiasm for crazy “investment” ideas. Around four hundred years ago, the Dutch managed … Continued
How to cut down plastic waste and make your business more sustainable
Plastic has become a serious environmental issue for the world. In the UK alone, we use around 275,000 tonnes of … Continued
10 top tips for the ultimate summer BBQ
There’s nothing more quintessential to a British summer than the smell of meat sizzling over fire. So, delight your guests … Continued
Are you one of the 1,000s missing out on some of the State Pension?
It has recently come to light that many people have been missing out on some of the State Pension. Estimates … Continued
5 great reasons to put the wellbeing of your employees at the heart of your business
Over the past few years, the importance of good health and wellbeing in the workplace has come to the forefront. … Continued
10 great walks in Yorkshire to celebrate National Walking Month
May marks National Walking Month in the UK, celebrating the joys of exploring the picturesque landscapes and trails that our … Continued
5 money lessons children should know by the time they leave school
Teaching children all about money makes a lot of sense, as early lessons can be formative for good, lifelong habits. … Continued
How financial planning can help improve your mental wellbeing
Next month, the Mental Health Foundation will host Mental Health Awareness Week. Running from 10 to 16 May, it’s a … Continued
Why a good investment strategy is not a sprint: it’s the London Marathon
When starting out, many investors are either put off by the risk of losing their money, or quickly become frustrated … Continued
10 effective tax-saving tips every small business owner needs to know
Every business owner knows how important it is to save money wherever possible. That’s why finding ways to save tax … Continued
5 useful tips to consider when it comes to selling your business
When it comes to selling your business, you’ll undoubtedly want to do it right – after all, you’ve probably worked … Continued
Why it’s important to set goals to achieve your financial dreams
Most people are aware of the need to save some of their income after paying bills and spending on non-essentials. … Continued
Can money buy you happiness? Science suggests it can – but not indefinitely
In 2015, Dan Price, the CEO of Seattle-based payment company, Gravity Payments, was hiking with a friend. A millionaire by … Continued
Budget 2021 – The winners and losers
A year ago, Rishi Sunak delivered his first Budget just as the pandemic began to take hold. While his £30 … Continued
Your 2021 Budget summary
On Wednesday 3 March, Rishi Sunak delivered his second Budget as chancellor. The Budget outlines the state of the economy … Continued
Why following the mainstream could hurt your portfolio
One of the biggest finance stories of the year may have already been told, with the GameStop short squeeze dominating … Continued
10 fascinating autobiographies for World Book Day
Autobiographies are a staple of any enthusiastic reader’s diet. Whether you’re looking for some wisdom hidden in the words of … Continued
5 important reasons not to hold too much money in cash
Holding cash has long been thought of as a safe way to keep your money: it’s easily accessible and there’s … Continued
5 opportunities for business owners to boost wealth and reduce tax at the end of the tax year
For business owners, every penny counts. That’s why it’s economical to use strategies that stretch your money that little bit … Continued
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your business?
Every business owner is used to thinking long-term for their business. Maybe even going as far to think about succession … Continued
New Year, New Money Habits
True to form, every year January brings a deluge of self-promises and new resolutions. There’s something about the start of … Continued
How to stay safe online this Christmas
Christmas is supposed to be the season of goodwill, but unfortunately it’s not that way for those looking to make … Continued
Residence Nil Rate Band – a less taxing inheritance?
The new Inheritance Tax residence nil rate band (RNRB) was introduced in 2017 with one sole aim: to make it … Continued
Step 9. Find a guide you trust (and then trust them) | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
Successful business people have a natural tendency to want to do everything themselves and very often they do it well. … Continued
Involve your family with philanthropy
With so many people needing so much help right now, parents and grandparents have a unique opportunity to teach younger … Continued
Win or lose: what the new pensions annual allowance means for you.
With everything that’s been going on in 2020, you might have missed some important changes to the pensions annual allowance … Continued
What makes a good life?
You have a steady job that pays the bills and puts your abilities to good use. You have loving relationships … Continued
Step 8. Get a second opinion | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
Estimates vary, but it’s generally accepted that the number of discrete behavioural biases we’re all prone to reaches double figures. … Continued
The Chancellor’s September Statement: A Summary
On 24th September, having postponed the expected Autumn Budget, Chancellor Rishi Sunak set out a range of new measures that … Continued
Step 7. Think about tax and pensions | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
Pensions and taxes may not be words to light a fire in your heart, but they’re a big part of … Continued
Step 6. Look at the evidence, drop the comparisons | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
When it comes to financing your retirement, there are different routes to consider. Many people will opt to buy an … Continued
Navigating Life’s Transitions by Rewriting Your Story
Your plans for the future are really a story that you tell yourself. Some of the chapters are easy to … Continued
Step 5. Have an exit strategy – what comes next? | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
We’re discussing your future beyond work, but if you’re a business owner, your business is a huge part of your … Continued
Step 4. Put the ‘long’ into ‘long-term’ | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
In business we’re always looking forward and thinking ahead, but more often than not we’re concerned with the next quarter, … Continued
Are your retirement plans on hold?
What is it they say about all the best-laid plans? This year many of ours have been well and truly … Continued
Step 3. Plan for your future | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
It’s unlikely that the idea of planning is new to you. You plan meetings, you plan campaigns, and you frequently … Continued
Step 2. Get your full financial picture into sharp focus | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
With the best will in the world, everyone’s financial picture can become hazy over the years. Sometimes that’s just down … Continued
Step 1. Decide what you want | A smarter approach to planning your retirement
Whatever you do for a living, someday you’ll go back to being you. When you do, it’s good to know … Continued
A smarter approach to planning your retirement
Whether you run your own business or you’re instrumental to the organisation you work for, you know how it feels … Continued
A Summary: Rishi Sunak’s 8th July Summer Statement
Just a few months after delivering his first Budget as Chancellor, Rishi Sunak delivered a Summer Statement, dubbed a ‘mini-Budget’ … Continued
Five ways our life-centred approach can work for you
It’s a funny thing, financial planning. Most people think it’s all about money, but at Cordiner Wealth, we know it’s … Continued
The art of armchair travelling
The Covid-19 outbreak has meant that it’s unlikely any of us will be travelling any time soon. However, virtual escapism … Continued
How to spot fake news
Social media and online platforms are full of misinformation and fake news at the best of times so in the … Continued
How to avoid going stir-crazy during the coronavirus lockdown
The effects of the government enforced isolation period will be felt across the whole nation. It’s going to be difficult … Continued
Be wary of Covid-19 email scams
Scandalous though it may sound, cyber-criminals are using the coronavirus crisis to prey on unsuspecting individuals. Security experts have said … Continued
Time to spring clean your finances
The daffodils and crocuses are beginning to appear, the trees are blossoming and the days are getting lighter. Spring is … Continued
Final countdown to the end of the tax year
You may have seen lots of literature already about the end of the tax year. But if you’ve not yet … Continued
The link between human behaviour and investing
Financial planning… Isn’t that based on cold, hard facts and scientific reasoning? Surely feelings and emotions don’t have much to … Continued
It’s not about how much you have, but what you do with it…
The old cliché goes that ‘money can’t buy you happiness,’ but how true is that statement? According to a recent … Continued
New year, new decade, new approach to your finances?
You may have already made some New Year’s resolutions regarding healthy eating and exercise but could your finances do with … Continued
Key steps to maximise your allowances before the end of the tax year
The tax year will be coming to an end on 5th April. With that deadline in mind, we wanted to … Continued
How the gender gap even affects children’s pensions
We’re familiar with the gender gap in pensions for adults but there is evidence that this actually starts much earlier … Continued
4 savvy tips when Christmas shopping
Christmas seems to come round earlier and earlier each year. Retailers start tempting ‘early gifters’ as soon as the Back … Continued
The impact of climate change fears on ethical investing
As pressure mounts on governments and financial institutions to do more to combat climate change, the demand for ethical investment … Continued
Back to 60 campaigners fight on
The campaigning group, Back to 60, has lost their fight at the High Court to seek redress for the inequality … Continued
Would more people actually like to retire a little later?
This may seem a surprising suggestion. Surely most people are eagerly looking forward to early retirement, not thinking about postponing … Continued
The Help to Buy ISA deadline is looming
After 30th November 2019, potential first-time buyers will no longer be able to apply for a new Help to Buy … Continued
8 places to visit this Autumn in the UK
With autumn pushing the heat of summer south across the equator, it’s time to strap on your wellies and get … Continued
How to find the right investment for you
In the wake of the Woodford debacle, there’s a lot of buzz around investments and the rationale for choosing them. So … Continued
How to stay safe online
As we venture further into this new digital age, the security of your personal data grows more and more important. … Continued
6 UK dining experiences to feed your intrigue
Food is one of the greatest and most diverse pleasures that life has to offer – it can be simple, … Continued
What is the open banking revolution?
Over a year and a half ago, a digital revolution introduced a new way for people to handle their money: … Continued
3 tips to avoiding inheritance tax
Benjamin Franklin famously said, ‘In this world nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes’. And if … Continued
What does it take to retire early?
The idea of retiring in your 50s or even your 40s sounds like a pipe-dream to most, what with the … Continued
Financial Wellbeing
How is your financial wellbeing? Increasingly, people are talking about financial wellbeing. But what does it actually mean? Financial wellbeing … Continued
The UK is struggling to save; what are the implications?
A study found in 2018 that one in four adults have no savings. Many residents in the UK wish that … Continued
6 bad habits to avoid during retirement
Planning for retirement can be complicated, as anyone approaching the end of their working life will tell you. However, navigating … Continued
How safe are your savings?
With your capital tucked away in savings accounts, investments and mortgages, you’d assume that there is some kind of protection … Continued
Why cruise holidays are booming for retirees
The cruise market offering has changed enormously in recent years, where once it was purely the domain of cabaret cheese … Continued
Time, not material goods, raises happiness
A new study has found that paying to free up your time is linked to increasing your level of happiness. … Continued
A snapshot of average weekly household spending
In January, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released their latest Family Spending Survey, revealing the intimate details of British … Continued
Children caring for parents and the impact on everyone’s wealth
A recent study carried out in the USA found that those caring for elderly parents are likely to experience additional … Continued
Data for sale: How to check your financial information isn’t being accessed online
We live in an age where more and more services are becoming available online, and where the process of signing … Continued
What makes a resolution easier to keep?
The start of a new year brings with it many things, not least the tradition of setting resolutions in order … Continued
Is a personal referral the best way to choose a financial adviser?
You can spend your life working hard and following all the advice you pick up along the way. If you’re … Continued
‘Winter sports’ doesn’t just have to mean skiing!
With winter in full swing, you might be thinking about how to make the most of the cold weather by … Continued
4 key ways to prevent your grown-up children derailing your retirement savings
The Bank of Mum and Dad is a well-known concept and we all hate to see our children struggle financially, … Continued
The rise of ‘staycation’ buy-to-lets
Since the Brexit vote, ‘staycations’ have become increasingly popular. This is unsurprising – for many people, going to the bureau … Continued
Explaining fund charges and investment fees
If you hold any investments, or already work with a financial adviser, then it’s likely that you’re familiar with the … Continued
3 top tips to prepare your kids for independent travel
It’s one thing to travel with your children or grandchildren and help them realise an appreciation for seeing the world. … Continued
3 financial fears this Halloween and how to overcome them
It’s time to be prepared for scary movies on TV, ghosts and ghouls trick-or-treating at your door and listening extra … Continued
Autumn 2018 Budget – Overview
Introduction A Budget for “Strivers, Grafters and Carers” Budgets, as we all know, take place on Wednesdays. After the excitement … Continued
Protecting yourself from pension scammers
Once again, pension scams are making headlines. Research from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and The Pensions Regulator (TPR) discovered … Continued
6 ways to reduce inheritance tax for your loved ones
Have you thought about how much your loved ones will need to pay in inheritance tax (IHT) when you pass … Continued
Life expectancy: Seven ways to prepare for a longer life
Good news: People in the UK are living for longer. But along with benefiting longer life expectancy, it means we’ve … Continued
Thinking about withdrawing your pension fund at once? Think again.
According to research by Prudential, a tenth of those who are planning to retire in 2018 will withdraw all their … Continued
Graduation season: Helping your child decide between saving for the future and paying off debt
Are you one of the thousands of parents celebrating your child’s graduation this summer? If so, congratulations to you and … Continued
Planning for retirement: Five tips if you think you’ve left it too late
Research from Dunstan Thomas last year, showed that just 17% of 54-71-year olds know how much money they will have … Continued
Interest rates rise above 0.5% for the first time in a decade
The Bank of England (BoE) has increased interest rates above 0.5% for the first time since 2009. Today, the Monetary … Continued
Disconnected: How moving services online could lose pensioners money
The internet is often a point of contention among families. But, whether you think it has brought the world closer … Continued
Managing risk vs reward when pension planning
Avoiding taking a risk could be holding you back from many things; such as ticking skydiving off your bucket list … Continued
Failure to prepare: Many over-50s are not prepared for life after retirement
A lack of preparation could mean that today’s over-50s are heading for disaster when they reach retirement. In fact, research … Continued
Key information for interest-only mortgage holders
According to UK Finance, the number of outstanding interest-only mortgages has fallen by 46% since 2012. Unfortunately, the issue of … Continued
Living inheritances gain prominence as reason for Equity Release
A report from Key Retirement has shown that approximately 30 retired homeowners give money released from their home to relatives … Continued
Five reasons not to let Pension Freedoms go to your head
Throughout the 2017/18 financial year, flexible pension withdrawals totalled more than £6.5 billion, the highest it has been since the … Continued
Three things to consider before using your pension to help relatives
There’s nothing new about retirees helping younger generations financially. Whether it’s to cover the seemingly ever-rising costs of living, or … Continued
How do you look after your finances? The protections you should know about
With new data from The Money Charity showing that almost 10 million people in the UK have no savings, it’s … Continued
Child or Grandchild off to uni this September? Three things to teach them before they go
Watching your kids or grandkids go off to university brings many feelings: Pride: At how well they have done until … Continued
Are you pension savvy? See how you compare to the rest of the population
How much do you know about your pension? According to research from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), many UK adults … Continued
Great expectations: Are millennials expecting too much from retirement?
Retiring early is the dream for many people. Indeed, according to research from Barclays, UK adults aged 18-34 are aiming … Continued
The true value of increased pension contributions
You probably know that the minimum pension contributions have increased for those who have been auto-enrolled. Previously, the contributions for … Continued
Where does your pension go when you die?
If you have not yet reached retirement, it can be easy to put off thinking about who will get your … Continued
Will you regret saving too little for retirement? Make changes before it’s too late
Will the money you put away today be enough to live on when you stop working? For some people, the … Continued
The retirement risk assessment: Five pitfalls to avoid when you finish work
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Wise words from US Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, who is also … Continued
State Pension: More than half of people don’t know what they will get, or when
Last month, we looked at the reasons people might defer their State Pension. This month, we thought we’d look at … Continued
Six tips to tie up your tax year
It’s almost April, and that means three things: Spring is on the way and you can start hoping for sunshine … Continued
Do you know when you can access your pension? It might be later than you think
Pension Freedoms. They’ve been around now for nearly three years, and in that time, they have revolutionised pensions, providing choice … Continued
It’s the biggest threat to your wealth, but 62% of people don’t understand it…
It’s something so powerful that Albert Einstein called it the eighth wonder of the world, and for good reason, too. … Continued
Deferring your State Pension: Could it be a mistake?
Deferring, or choosing to take your State Pension at a later date has been a popular topic of late. Just … Continued
Understanding Pension Freedoms: A lack of knowledge could cost you
Ignorance is not bliss when money is involved, especially when that money is supposed to support your lifestyle when you … Continued
15 things to do in the year before you retire
The way we work, and retire, is changing. Gone are the days when we would work in the same place … Continued
Why underestimating your life expectancy is dangerous for your bank balance
More than three quarters of 50-64-year-olds underestimate their life expectancy, according to research from Retirement Advantage. 78% of those asked, … Continued
The two reasons why people don’t take financial advice; and why they should think again
There are many times when you might think about asking a professional for advice. We turn to qualified and experienced … Continued
IHT receipts expected to rise
The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has updated its projection for the period between 2016 and 2022. New figures show … Continued
Base rate rise boosts Premium Bond pay-outs
The Bank of England (BoE) decision to raise the base interest rate from 0.25% to 0.5% means that hopefully banks … Continued
Baby boomers resist taking financial advice – and lose £13,000 per year
Born between 1946 and 1964, baby boomers are currently preparing for, or settling into the early years of, retirement. With … Continued
Thousands of people don’t know what happens to their personal pension when they die
93% of personal pension holders don’t know where their money will go when they pass away. As such, they might … Continued
Autumn Budget 2017: Everything you need to know
The Chancellor, Philip Hammond rose to his feet at 12.38 to deliver his second Budget of the year. The days … Continued
Autumn Budget 2017: Were you a winner or a loser?
Every Budget has winners and losers; with some people faring better than others. So, how did you fare? Read on … Continued
Interest rate rise: How will it affect you?
It’s taken more than 10 years, but it’s finally happened. The Bank of England has decided to increase interest rates … Continued
State Pension: Should you delay taking yours?
You’ve worked hard all your life, paid your National Insurance on time, and now that you’ve reached State Pension age, … Continued
More people retiring with a pension, but incomes are still falling
New research has shown that more of us are retiring with a pension pot, but the income of people retiring … Continued
Is now the right time to consider a ‘living inheritance’?
When you retire, you probably already know who you want to leave your estate to down the line. Hopefully you’ve … Continued
Do yourself a favour. Tick ‘write a will’ off your to-do list.
Last year, almost 13,000 people had solicitors make their will during Will Aid. This year, you can join them and … Continued
When should you see a financial planner?
There are times in life when we need professional advice. Accountants or solicitors, for example: If you are a business … Continued
Nearly half of all over-55s plan to downsize: But do they really need to?
New research has revealed that an astonishing 3.9 million over-55s plan to downsize their home as they head to retirement. … Continued
5 Reasons to buy your business premises in your pension
If you run your own business, the rent you pay for your premises is probably one of your largest outgoings. … Continued
Revealed: The three retirement mistakes thousands of people are making
It is often said that you can only go forward by making mistakes. In many cases, that’s true. Providing you … Continued
6 tips to rebuild your retirement plans after a divorce
Divorce. It’s a subject that’s unlikely to make for a cheery read, but it’s an important one to talk about … Continued
What happens to your pension when you die?
Let’s deal with the elephant in the room straightaway. Yes, this is an article about pensions and death; neither the … Continued
Pension or Buy to Let: Which is better?
I sometimes feel that we love property, especially Buy to Let, as much as we hate pensions. I know that’s … Continued
State Pension Age to increase earlier than planned
The Government has announced a change in its plans for the State Pension Age, delaying it by a year for … Continued
Confusion over pension contribution cap resolved
The Government has moved to resolve the confusion over the amount some people can pay into their pension. Although, not … Continued
Surprise ‘triple lock’ U-turn announced as DUP signs deal with Conservatives
The Conservative party has scrapped a manifesto commitment to drop the State Pension ‘triple lock’, along with plans that would … Continued
How many types of ISA can you name? (Clue: You will need more than the fingers on one hand!)
Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) have come a long way over the past 18 years, to the extent that there are … Continued
The Queen’s speech: How will it affect your personal finances?
The 2017 Queen’s speech was delivered after a General Election that has left the Conservative party without a majority. This … Continued
Six reasons why your house isn’t your pension!
Those people who know me (or who frankly take one look at my photo on our website) will soon realise … Continued
Seven ways to cut the Inheritance Tax paid when you die
Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax that raises more emotion than most. To some, paying tax on your assets after … Continued
What does the election result mean for your personal finances?
It was former Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, who stated: “A week is a long time in politics”. Well, it’s been … Continued
Eight things to do in the years before you retire
We all have different reasons for calling time on our working life, or at least slowing down. Maybe you want … Continued
What’s the biggest threat to your investments? (Hint: it’s probably not what you think it is)
If we asked you what the biggest risk to your investments were, how would you answer: Inflation? Trump? Stock market … Continued
How has Inheritance Tax changed?
George Osborne proposed, well before he became Chancellor in 2010, that the Inheritance Tax nil rate band be increased so … Continued
Pension and dividend tax changes dropped as election looms
Confusion reigned this week as the Chancellor, Philip Hammond, revealed that two measures previously announced in his Budget will not … Continued
Why a pension of £1 million might not be enough to retire on
Does a pension pot of £1 million make you rich? Better off than most for sure, but rich? That’s probably … Continued
How will it affect your personal finances?
The answer to that question depends on two things; the outcome of the election and how you react to the … Continued
Considering transferring your Final Salary pension? The two things you must do before you transfer
The financial hot topics at dinner parties used to be house prices. Now though you’re as likely to hear people … Continued
Can you afford to open the bank of mum and dad?
Many of our clients have been homeowners for decades, but for their children getting on to the housing ladder isn’t … Continued
The Financial Advice Company in the press
Our newsletter, which we launched earlier this month with a Budget Special Edition, will keep you up to date with … Continued
Shock National Insurance U-turn
In a shock move, that will come as a pleasant mid-week surprise to many, Chancellor Philip Hammond has announced that … Continued
Budget 2017: Everything you need to know
The Chancellor, Philip Hammond, started his first Budget in a bullish mood, listing the ways the economy had exceeded expectations. … Continued
Budget 2017: Were you a winner or a loser?
Will you be better or worse off as a result of today’s Budget? Our summary will tell you, read on … Continued
Absolute return promises – easy to make, but hard to keep.
The combination of short-term market uncertainty, human nature and an immediately attractive sounding moniker for an investment is a marketing … Continued
Your adviser’s role as your investment coach
The hardest part of investing is having the confidence and emotional fortitude to stick with the programme through thick and thin.
The foundation stones of good investing
Investing is the process of delaying consumption from today to some time in the future and employing that money in … Continued
So it is ‘leave’…
The UK has woken up this morning to a vote to leave the EU, the Prime Minister is set to … Continued
The outcome of the referendum and your portfolio
The impact of a leave vote on your portfolio As the referendum to remain in, or leave, the European Union … Continued
The fall and decline of buy-to-let?
The British continue their love affair with being buy-to-let landlords. After all, with bank deposit and mortgage rates so low, … Continued
The ordinariness of market falls
Short term losses are common and a central part of growing wealth Unfortunately, humans are hard wired to ignore their … Continued
A bad start to the year…so far…
It is never a nice feeling when markets go through periods when they fall; and it certainly does not help … Continued
Expected portfolio returns – there are no guarantees
All investors know that risk and return are related – taking on more (sensible) risk should provide higher returns, over time. Yet there are no guarantees.
Crowdfunding: peer-to-peer lending– a fad or the future?
Much has been written over the years about the increasing disintermediation of the banks. Their traditional role as lenders and – via their investment banks – issuers of equity capital, has been undermined by other market participants such
Balancing your values with practical reality
Most of us are increasingly aware of the social and environmental impacts of our daily lives; we may recycle, avoid buying products from certain companies and try to cut our carbon footprint. In reality though, we make compromises.
Pension reforms – challenges and opportunities
New pension reforms came into being on 6th April 2015. The materially greater freedoms that now exist have much appeal, … Continued
The good, the bad and the ugly of VCTs and EIS
Is the tax tail of VCT and EIS investment wagging the investment dog? Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and Enterprise Investment … Continued
The hidden value of great financial planning
There are also some more subtle areas of the value of a long-term relationship with a trusted financial planner. For many people, living longer is a two-edged sword. On the upside, we can all now expect to live materially longer than our
The US election: the one thing we can be sure about is uncertainty
We are somewhat loathe to put out yet another piece about what might happen in the markets as it risks … Continued