What the Back to the Future ripple effect could teach you about financial planning

It’s been 40 years since Back to the Future delighted cinema-goers with its time-travelling adventure. Teenager Marty McFly discovers the power of the “ripple effect”, and it’s something that could be valuable when you’re creating a financial plan as well. One of the plot devices in Back to the Future is the ripple effect – the spreading impact of an …

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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 part of investing. Keep your …

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Report: Social connections and kindness essential for wellbeing

The 2025 World Happiness Report has been released, and this year, it has highlighted the importance of social connections and giving back to your community. The World Happiness Report assesses the current state of happiness around the world, and this year’s edition revealed that Finland has been ranked as the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year. …

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The simple step that could boost your annuity income in retirement

You’ve likely spent years preparing for retirement and envisioning the lifestyle you’d like to enjoy once work is officially behind you. You might have even accumulated a significant pension pot through careful planning to help support this dream lifestyle. As you explore some of the different ways to draw an income from your retirement fund, one option you might have …

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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 0.3% in the first quarter …

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Why defining “financial freedom” could help you achieve it

Achieving “financial freedom” is an aspiration many people have. Yet, it can mean different things to each person and is influenced by other lifestyle goals, so defining how to measure it for you could help you turn it into a reality. Securing financial freedom so you can retire with confidence is a common goal. A January 2025 Legal & General …

The compounding effect: How it could boost or harm your finances

When a 1920s ad referred to compound interest as “the eighth wonder of the world”, the quote was left unattributed. But that didn’t stop it from becoming synonymous with the celebrated physicist, Albert Einstein. The link was likely intended to lend credibility to a statement that at first glance seems bold. And yet, compounding could be key to the success …

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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 to take a long-term view. …

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5 shrewd ways to avoid paying tax on your savings

24% of people think all their savings are tax-free, according to a Lloyds Bank survey carried out in February 2025. However, they could be in for an unexpected shock, as the interest earned on savings might be liable for Income Tax. The good news is, there are often ways to reduce a potential tax bill on your savings. Read on …