Someone looking at stock market performance on their phone.

Investment market update: December 2023

Many markets rallied during December based on the expectation that interest rates will start to fall in 2024. Read on to discover what else may have affected your investment portfolio in the final month of 2023. On 27 December, the MSCI World Stock Index, which comprises stock from nearly 3,000 companies to track global equity-market performance, was up 4.5% when …

A grandfather and his grandson playing football on a beach.

Research: How to slow the signs of ageing and feel healthier in your later years

American researchers have discovered eight habits that could slow the signs of ageing by up to six years. These measures all promote good heart health, which they found keeps your body biologically younger than your actual age. The scientists measured research participants’ metabolism, organ function, and inflammation to see how these lifestyle changes affected their phenotypic – or biological – …

A calendar that reads “2024”.

7 useful tricks that could turn new year resolutions into habits

What are your goals for 2024? Whether you want to improve your health, be smarter with your money, or learn a new skill, it can be hard to know where to start. Recent research discovered the average British adult only sticks to a new habit for seven weeks before giving up. So what can you do to achieve the life …

A man looking at some paperwork.

Why the numbers are essential for successful financial planning

When creating a financial plan, you often start with your goals. After all, setting out your aspirations first lets you create a plan that’s tailored to you. Yet, understanding your numbers is just as crucial for successful financial planning and they could help you understand the effect of your decisions. So, which numbers are the key ones you should know? …

A woman paying for items in a shop.

Inflation is falling. Here’s what it could mean for your finances

High inflation has dominated headlines over the last two years. With the rate now slowly nearing the Bank of England’s (BoE) target, taking stock of what it means for your finances could be useful. The BoE is responsible for managing inflation and aims to keep it at 2%. The central bank explains keeping inflation stable helps everyone plan for the …

Guide: 10 incredible destinations to add to your bucket list

Seeing more of the world makes up many people’s bucket lists. Whether you want to be left in awe of natural sights, immerse yourself in a different culture, or see a historic monument, there are plenty of destinations to choose from. Read our guide to discover 10 bucket list-worthy destinations that might tempt you to start planning your next trip …

An aerial view of the Thames and London.

Investment market update November 2023

While inflation is starting to ease in economies around the world, there are still signs of economic challenges ahead. Read on to find out what affected investment markets in November 2023. UK In November, chancellor Jeremy Hunt delivered the Autumn Statement. Despite media suggestions that Inheritance Tax would be abolished, the biggest announcement was a cut to National Insurance rates …

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Is the secret to happiness a natural “talent”?

What makes you happy? Watching cute animal videos and indulging in your hobbies may brighten up your day, but new research suggests that genetics have more to do with your happiness than you think. TV presenter Richard Madeley’s daughter recently described her father as having a “talent for happiness”, which could be true. Think of the people in your life …