Category: Economy & Uncategorized
The Chancellor billed his fifth budget as one that sets out further action to secure the economic recovery and build a resilient economy. Amongst the announcements are major changes to pensions and ISAs.
This document sets out the main changes to tax rates and allowances for individuals, companies and trustees.
Category: Economy & Uncategorized
In its February 2014 Inflation Report, the Bank of England, in general terms, is saying that the UK recovery has gained momentum, with inflation returning to the 2% target. The report states that reduced uncertainty, easier credit conditions and the stimulative stance of monetary policy should support continued solid economic growth, with the expansion in demand becoming more entrenched and more broadly based.
Category: Protection & Uncategorized
Earlier in February 2014, the Water Bill had its second reading in the House of Lords and the issue of flood cover insurance was discussed. The current UK flood insurance guarantee – the Statement of Principles – is soon to expire and is set to be replaced by the Flood Re proposal. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RCIS) supports the Flood Re proposal as it is currently the only tenable solution available and has the support of both the insurance industry and government, which secures its viability.
Category: Investments & savings & Uncategorized
More over-55s are turning to financial advisers than did so four years ago, new research from Aviva into the shape of financial advice for retirement in 2014, shows. But with 77% of over-55s having no relationship with an adviser – and no plans to establish one – Aviva’s findings reveal a worrying lack of understanding about the nature of financial issues in later life.
Category: Investments & pensions & retirement & savings & Uncategorized
The startling headline finding from The Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) recent review of the annuities market proved to be the fact that some 80% of people who purchased an annuity from their pension provider could have received a better deal from an alternative source.
The report found that the annuities market was not working as it could for consumers, with many reporting that they found it difficult to review the suitability of the annuity offered by their pension provider, when compared to the alternatives available.
Category: Tax & Uncategorized
As always, the end of the tax year is an important date in anyone’s financial planning calendar. In most cases, tax allowances end with the tax year: making the best use of them while they are available can mean a big difference to the eventual returns from your savings and investments.
We have therefore put together some hints and tips which will hopefully guide your financial planning as the end of the tax year approaches – but as always, if you have any questions on any of the points below don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
