Your Money - Your Future
News & Views
Time to SIPP into financial freedom?
A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is more than just a pension. It's a gateway to financial freedom that can offer you an unparalleled level of control. With a SIPP, you are at the helm of your investment decisions, determining how your money is invested and your pension pot grows. Whether you make regular contributions or occasional lump-sum deposits, even a modest start can significantly impact your retirement nest egg. SIPPs come with the bonus of tax benefits, matching those other pensions offer. If you're a higher rate taxpayer, you can gain even more through tax relief. [...]
Succession planning, a family affair
Transferring wealth within a family is a delicate process that requires clear communication and effective planning. Otherwise, it could lead to a potentially large tax bill and bad feelings in the family. This narrative was depicted in the hit American HBO series ‘Succession,’ which centred on the Roy family, the owners of global media and entertainment conglomerate Waystar RoyCo, and their fight for control of the company amidst uncertainty about the health of the family's patriarch. [...]
Balancing profit and planet
ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investing, a socially responsible investing approach, seeks to harmonise financial returns with a company's environmental impact, stakeholder relationships and global footprint. Our planet faces numerous challenges, from climate change to a rapidly growing and ageing population. Understanding and incorporating ESG risks and opportunities into your investment strategy improves decision-making and enables you to seek more beneficial investment outcomes. By examining and synthesising ESG data, we can help you to make more informed and sustainable investment choices. [...]
National Insurance Contributions (NICs)
National Insurance is a cornerstone of the welfare and benefits system. As a citizen, your contributions will likely play a significant role in funding state provisions such as pensions, maternity leave and bereavement support. If you're over 16, under the State Pension age and either employed or self-employed, chances are you're making National Insurance Contributions (NICs). [...]
Changes to the State Pension
The State Pension is set to increase commencing on 6 April 2024 due to a mechanism known as the 'Triple Lock’. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has announced an increase of 8.5%, which pensioners will welcome. The State Pension is a recurring benefit paid out every four weeks by the government. This payment is made available to individuals who have reached the qualifying age and have sufficiently contributed to National Insurance. [...]
Tax-saving measures
Have you recently evaluated your personal tax situation? Is your tax structure optimised for efficiency? As we approach the end of the tax year on 5 April 2024, it presents an ideal opportunity to assess and leverage the various allowances and reliefs available to enhance your tax profile. Allocating time for this review can provide valuable insight into potential opportunities for you and your family. [...]