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 …
Why an effective financial plan might involve spending more
When people think about financial wellbeing, they often link it to frugality or building wealth. Yet, an effective financial plan isn’t always about that, sometimes, it might make sense to spend more. It can be difficult to get your head around. After all, as a child you’re often taught that being sensible with money means putting it in a savings …
Investment market update: February 2025
After reading headlines throughout February, you might be expecting a gloomy investment outlook. Yet, despite threats of trade wars and uncertainty around the world, there were market highs. Read on to find out more about some of the factors that influenced investment markets. As investment markets are experiencing volatility, it’s perhaps unsurprising that some investors sought the “safe haven” of …
5 ways to make nature part of your routine
As spring starts to bring us nicer weather, you might be thinking about ways you can spend more time in nature. But did you know that enjoying time outside is vital to your health? A recent Aviva study found that almost 9 out of 10 UK adults say access to nature is important to their physical and mental wellbeing. Not …
Why ongoing financial advice could ease your mental load
Handling finances is a part of life and something that most people do, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t stressful. Indeed, many people don’t feel confident making financial decisions, and financial advice could ease their mental load. Even when you’re relatively comfortable, managing your finances can be a cause of concern. Indeed, you might find it even more stressful as …
6 estate planning lessons you could learn from the Murdoch family dispute
The Murdoch family’s messy dispute over who will retain control of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire when he passes away has been grabbing headlines. While your affairs might not be in the spotlight, the case offers some useful insight into how to avoid family disputes. Following his second divorce in 1999, Rupert Murdoch established a trust foundation to hold the family’s …
How financial planning could help you overcome decision paralysis
How long do you leave essential tasks on your to-do list? If you’ve put off tasks because they feel overwhelming, you’re not alone, but delays could be harmful. Read on to find out how financial planning may help you overcome decision paralysis. According to a January 2025 study from the Post Office, half of adults in the UK have delayed …
How to practice mindfulness when managing your money
How you approach managing your finances could affect your ability to reach long-term goals. The Japanese spending philosophy “kakeibo” could help you practice financial mindfulness and get more out of your assets. Spending money without thinking about how it’ll affect your long-term finances could mean you miss opportunities to secure the lifestyle you want. On the other hand, focusing only …