4 steps that could recession-proof your retirement

If you’ve been keeping up with the news recently, you’ll likely know that global economic growth is under increasing pressure. In February 2025, the Bank of England halved its forecast for UK growth this year from 1.5% to just 0.75%, the BBC reports. Meanwhile, the Guardian reveals that US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) shrank by...

How technology could be harming your investment decisions

Technology has made it easier than ever to invest and review the performance of your portfolio. Yet, it could also be harming your decision-making skills and the way you approach managing your finances. Understanding when and how technology has the potential to negatively affect your investments could mean you’re better able to spot and then…

Financial protection: 3 useful questions to help you calculate appropriate cover

Financial protection may provide you or your loved ones with a financial injection when you need it most. Calculating what level of cover is appropriate for you is an essential step to take when comparing options. Over the last couple of months, you’ve read about why financial protection is important and the different types that...

How to improve your financial resilience

This guest blog was written by Chris Budd, who wrote the original Financial Wellbeing Book, and also 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. Financial wellbeing is a broad term that encompasses all aspects of the relationship...

Investment market update: May 2025

Uncertainty continued to lead to market volatility in May 2025. However, there was some good news for investors as some markets recovered the losses they experienced in April 2025. Read on to find out more and what factors may have influenced your portfolio’s performance recently. While market movements may be worrisome, remember, it’s a normal…

How to use the “gifting from income” rule to reduce your estate’s Inheritance Tax bill

According to a Citywire report, forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) suggest the amount of Inheritance Tax (IHT) paid to HMRC will have increased by 11.6% in 2024/25 compared to 2023/24. This will mean that the total amount of IHT paid in the 2024/25 financial year will have reached a record high of…

Investment market update: April 2025

Once again, US president Donald Trump’s trade tariffs have affected investment markets throughout April 2025 and could have far-reaching implications over the coming months. Indeed, UN Trade and Development now predicts that global growth will slow to 2.3% in 2025, compared to 2.8% last year. While experiencing volatility can be daunting as an investor, remember…

4 useful insights from a decade of Pension Freedoms

A decade ago, the introduction of Pension Freedoms shook up retirement planning and gave retirees more options than ever. Before 2015, if you had a defined contribution (DC) pension, the common route was to use the money accumulated to purchase an annuity. The annuity would then provide you with a regular income, usually for the…

How to use an unexpected windfall to create long-term prosperity

If an unexpected lump sum lands in your bank account, you might be tempted to splash out and treat yourself. However, using a windfall effectively could create long-term prosperity. There are plenty of reasons why you might suddenly receive a cash injection. Perhaps you’ve received a bonus from work or inherited assets. Whatever the reason,…

Key financial planning challenges couples face and how we could solve them

Creating a financial plan can seem complicated, especially if you need to take into account your partner’s views, assets, and goals. At times, you might have conflicting ideas about what is “right” and it can be a difficult situation to navigate. Working with a financial planner as a couple could help you overcome some of…

Why investor fear and anxiety play a role in market volatility

2025 has already been eventful for investors. Many factors are influencing market volatility, and one cause you might have overlooked is the emotions of investors. Read on to find out why fear and anxiety might lead to the value of investments falling. US president Donald Trump entered the White House for a second term in…

Financial protection: The key options that could protect your lifestyle and family

Financial protection could provide you with a cash boost when you need it most, and there’s more than one type to consider. Last month, you read why financial protection provides a crucial safety net should you face an unexpected shock. Now, read on to find out more about some of the key options. 2 forms…