Retirement Planning

Small pension boost can make a big difference

Small increases in pension contributions can significantly boost long-term savings, thanks to the power of compound investment growth. Even a modest monthly rise can add tens of thousands to your retirement pot, making future financial security far more achievable.

Retirement Planning

Retirement ready in 2026?

Research into the UK’s Baby Boomer generation found that only 40–50% are on track for a moderate standard of living in retirement. Plus, those who receive financial advice are significantly more retirement-ready, underlining the importance of planning ahead.

Retirement Planning

Clients are tuning in to intergenerational planning

The UK is expected to see a significant shift in assets passed down to younger generations over the next 30 years, prompting an interest in intergenerational planning.

Retirement Planning

Clients are tuning in to intergenerational planning

The UK is expected to see a significant shift in assets passed down to younger generations over the next 30 years, prompting an interest in intergenerational planning.

Retirement Planning

Women lag behind with pension savings – time to make amends

Research shows women risk entering #retirement with less in their #pension than men. For every £1 saved by a man, a woman has just 42p.

Retirement Planning

The retirement landscape – hybrid working changes the scene

Hybrid working and a phased approach to retirement can make transitions easier. Reducing work hours after 66 can help to boost your pension pot, while financial advice ensures your retirement plans remain on track for long-term security.

Inheritance Tax

End of tax year IHT recap – gen up on gifting allowances

IHT receipts continue to rise. Before the tax year's end, take advantage of gifting allowances to reduce your estate and minimise future IHT liabilities. Advice is essential to ensure gifts are made and evidenced in the right way.

Retirement Planning

The changing face of retirement – as the traditional ‘hard-stop’ is consigned to history

The traditional "hard-stop" retirement is fading, with many working longer for financial, social, or personal reasons. This shift requires careful tax planning when combining work income with pension withdrawals to ensure a smooth, comfortable transition to retirement.

General Financial

Family tensions over money talks – time to break the taboo

Many wealthy individuals avoid discussing finances, fearing family conflict, leading to inheritance misunderstandings. Generational differences and financial pressures, especially in regions like London, contribute to tensions. Open, honest conversations about money can reduce stress and prevent future disappointments.

Retirement Planning

Avoiding the unretirement ‘tax trap’

A significant minority of over-55s are considering unretirement, with over a quarter planning to continue with some form of paid work after retiring. However, nearly two-thirds haven't checked the potential tax implications of doing so; their tax liability could increase if extra earnings take their income above the personal tax threshold or pushes them into a higher tax bracket. It's essential to understand these risks and seek financial advice to avoid the unretirement 'tax trap'.

Retirement Planning

Which pension personality are you?

A recent study has identified several distinct pension personality types, each with its own strengths and challenges. Procrastination Pete and Paula are the most common type, often overwhelmed by the complexities of pensions. This group is likely to make poor decisions, such as hastily withdrawing a 25% tax-free lump sum without a clear plan – potentially costing them thousands in future income. No matter your pension personality, strategic planning and professional advice are crucial for securing long-term financial security in retirement.

Retirement Planning

Self-employed? Remember your pension

In 2023, there were 4.2 million people in the UK’s solo self-employed sector but concerningly, 45% of freelancers are not saving into a pension. Employed people are auto-enrolled into a pension scheme by their workplace, but if you are freelance it is your responsibility. The sooner you start saving for retirement, the more you can grow your investment and benefit from tax relief on contributions (within limits). Start by deciding on a minimum monthly contribution that feels manageable for you.

Insights