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, before you start making plans, …
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 the key challenges you might …
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 January. Since then, his policies …
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 of financial protection that could …
How financial planning could help you answer essential “what if?” questions
Financial planning is all about helping you to reach your life goals. Ultimately, the objective is for your wealth to allow you to achieve all the things you want to do now and in the future. That might be as simple as being able to relax and enjoy a comfortable retirement or helping your children through education or onto the …
Investment market update: March 2025
Trade wars and fears that tariffs could spark recessions meant investment market volatility continued in March 2025 and the start of April 2025. Read on to find out more about some of the factors that may have affected the value of your investments recently. Tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump affected markets negatively and, as other countries react to …
10 fantastic places to enjoy music on International Jazz Day
Listening to live music is a great way to spend an evening, whether you’re out by yourself or spending time with your friends and family. If you’ve been searching for the next event to attend, you might find that International Jazz Day is the perfect excuse to visit an incredible jazz club near you. This annual celebration takes place on …
Why you should make registering a Lasting Power of Attorney a priority
Data released by Scotland’s largest health board has highlighted the potential challenges families could face if a loved one doesn’t have a Power of Attorney in place. According to a BBC report, in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, a third of patients who are delayed getting out of hospital are stuck because they don’t have a Power of Attorney, the …
4 reasons to remain calm amid market volatility and uncertainty
Geopolitical tensions have led to a bumpy start to 2025 for investors. If you’re worried about volatility and what it might mean for your long-term finances, there are reasons to remain calm despite the uncertainty. The ongoing war in Ukraine has resulted in some anxiety in Europe, with the UK and other countries committing to increasing defence spending. In addition, …
Half of adults reconsidering their retirement plans ahead of 2027 Inheritance Tax changes
An incoming change to the way pensions will be taxed when they’re inherited might mean you’re rethinking how you use your pension. Before you dive into updating your retirement plan, it’s important to understand what the changes could mean for you and how to balance passing on wealth with your retirement aspirations. During the Autumn Budget in October 2024, chancellor …