For some investors, particularly higher-rate taxpayers, Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) could offer an attractive and tax-efficient investment prospect. Read on to discover the basics you need to know if you’re thinking about making VCTs part of your financial plan. VCTs are listed companies that invest in UK businesses. These are typically smaller and younger firms […]
As property prices have risen at a faster pace than wages over the last few years, first-time buyers are finding it increasingly difficult to save the required deposit to get on the property ladder. If you own your home, you might be able to use your property wealth to give loved ones a helping hand […]
The importance of saving is drummed into us from a very early age. As a child, for example, you may have had a moneybox and been encouraged to save your spare coins. As you get older, this extends into saving for university, saving up for a house, saving for retirement, and so on. But what […]
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 […]
What’s the most important factor affecting the performance of your investments? Your mind might jump to the ups and downs of the market, and they do have an effect. When share prices rise, so too will the value of your portfolio. However, the markets aren’t the starting point of a successful investment: your mindset is. […]
October 2025 proved to be a positive month for many investors, with markets reaching record highs. Read on to find out more about what factors may have affected your portfolio’s performance. Remember to take a long-term view when assessing your investments and consider your risk profile when making decisions. Markets experienced record highs, but investor […]
In life, the finest wisdom often comes from the most unexpected places. So, you may be surprised to learn that Jane Austen – one of the most revered romance authors of all time and a paragon of women’s literature – has anything to teach you about the modern world of finance. Born in Hampshire in […]
Having a stable income when you retire could give you the independence to enjoy a meaningful and fulfilling life after work. Indeed, a July 2023 survey by Legal & General found that 94% of UK adults said that financial security was their most important retirement dream. Your State Pension, along with other savings and investments, […]
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 […]
High street toy shop The Entertainer revealed that it has transferred 100% ownership of the family-owned business to an employee trust. As a business owner, if you’re considering exit strategies, an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) could be an option worth exploring. An EOT is a government-backed structure that allows business owners to sell a controlling […]
