Finding True Wealth

Welcome to our blog, Finding True Wealth. Being "wealthy" means different things to different people. For some it can refer to their money and assets but for others it may mean financial freedom and having the means to fulfil life goals etc. Here we'll include articles to help you on your way to find your "True Wealth".

As well as these articles, we produce guides from time-to-time. Click here to browse our previous guides.

3 insightful research findings that could help you navigate your “second 50”

February 2024

A report suggests those who have turned 50 recently will have lifestyles that are radically different from previous generations. Find out why and what it could mean for your financial plan.

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The ups and downs of the FTSE 100 40-year history demonstrates time in the market matters

February 2024

The FTSE 100 turns 40 this year. Over the last four decades, the index has experienced crashes and periods of volatility. Yet, it reached a new high in 2023 and its history demonstrates why a long-term approach to investing could be savvy.

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Government borrowing halves and opens room for tax cuts in March’s Budget

February 2024

Government borrowing was below expectations at the end of 2023. It could mean the chancellor has more scope to make tax cuts or increase public spending in the March Budget. Read about three changes Jeremy Hunt is reportedly considering.

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Fraudsters used “social engineering” to steal £580 million in the first half of 2023

January 2024

The latest figures from UK Finance show £580 million was lost to scams in the first half of 2023. Falling victim to fraud could affect your financial and emotional wellbeing. Discover three key steps you could take to avoid scams.

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The pension Annual Allowance increased in 2023/24. Have you reviewed your contributions?

January 2024

In 2023/24, your pension Annual Allowance is up to £60,000 compared to £40,000 in the previous tax year. If you haven’t reviewed whether it could be worthwhile to increase your contributions following the rise, read this article to discover why it could be financially savvy.

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Retirement planning: Should you consider a phased retirement?

January 2024

If you’re planning your retirement, one of the first questions you might want to consider is: how will you retire? A phased approach could help you strike a work-life balance that suits you and might offer other benefits too.

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How to make happiness part of your financial plan

October 2023

When you think about your financial plan, pensions, financial protection, and investments might come to mind. Yet, financial planning is about much more than growing your wealth. It’s about using your money to help you get more out of your life and improve your wellbeing.

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HMRC collects a record amount in Capital Gains Tax. Here’s how you could manage your liability

October 2023

The amount HMRC collected through Capital Gains Tax (CGT) increased by 15% in 2021/22. Further government cuts to a tax exemption could mean your tax liability will rise. Find out how you could potentially reduce a CGT bill here.

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5 useful conversations to have this Talk Money Week

October 2023

Talk Money Week aims to encourage people to start financial conversations. While discussing money can be difficult, it could help you get more out of your assets and provide an opportunity to pass on lessons you’ve learnt too.

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The 2023 parents’ essential guide to student loans

September 2023

As a parent, you may be worried about your child taking out student loans. The government has also made some key changes that will affect students going to university in 2023. Find out what you need to know about student loans here.

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Zoom orders staff back to the office. Is the remote working trend over?

September 2023

Despite benefiting from the rise of remote working, video communications company Zoom has ordered some of its staff back to the office. Yet, research shows many employees and employers still plan to embrace flexible working patterns.

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Report: 1 in 5 people will be living with a major illness in 2040

September 2023

A new report suggests that 1 in 5 people will be living with a major illness by 2040. As well as having implications for care services, you may also want to consider how medical issues could affect your life and finances.

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A grocery shop would cost just 45p in 1940s when the first supermarket opened its doors

August 2023

75 years ago, the UK’s first supermarket opened its doors in London. Back in the 1940s, a grocery shop would set you back just 45p. Discover how inflation has affected the value of your money here.

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Care home fees have increased by 10%. Are they part of your long-term plan?

August 2023

Figures suggest the average nursing care home costs more than £60,000 a year. If it’s not something you’ve considered as part of your financial plan, doing so could improve your comfort and security later in life.

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Why emotional decision-making could be costing you investment returns

August 2023

Letting your emotions influence your investment decisions could be having a larger effect than you think. A survey suggests paying too much attention to the news and taking too little risk due to fear are two of the biggest mistakes investors could be making.

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Longevity expert says improving your wellbeing could boost your “healthspan”

July 2023

While lifespans have increased, a longevity expert says focusing on health and wellbeing in your later years is just as important. Daily habits to improve your mental and physical health could boost your “healthspan”.

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The 3 types of tax you need to understand before investing in buy-to-let

July 2023

As property prices have increased, more people are thinking of using buy-to-let to build long-term wealth. But before you purchase a second property, read about three essential taxes you need to understand.

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Retirees, don’t overlook the surprising risk of underspending in retirement

July 2023

While a common retirement fear is spending too much, underspending is a challenge too. For some retirees, being too frugal could mean they miss out on enjoying the next chapter of their life despite working hard to create financial security.

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Why inaction is a crucial part of successful investing

June 2023

When investing, the actions you decide not to take are just as important as those you do. Sticking to your long-term plan despite market volatility can be difficult but it could lead to better outcomes.

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Pensions v ISAs: Tax relief makes a huge difference to your calculations

June 2023

If you’re saving for a long-term goal, you may be weighing up the pros and cons of pensions and ISAs. Tax relief is an essential part of the calculations and could mean your savings go much further.

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Want to retire early? Financial planning could make it a reality

June 2023

A report suggests that people seeking financial advice are planning to retire three years earlier than those that aren’t. What’s more, retirees with a financial plan are more likely to say they’re enjoying their new life.

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How you could protect loved ones from financial abuse

May 2023

Financial abuse is rising, but there are ways you can help. Read to discover some practical ways to protect your loved ones from financial abuse.

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4 essential Budget announcements that could boost your pension

May 2023

The chancellor made some key changes to pensions during the Budget. Many workers could increase their tax-efficient pension contributions in 2023/24 as a result.

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Estate Planning: 3 crucial steps that could protect your later years

May 2023

While estate planning often focuses on how you’ll pass on assets, it can be useful for providing long-term financial security. Learn three essential steps you should take.

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Why it could pay to use your 2023/24 tax year allowances right now

April 2023

The new tax year has only just started but using your allowances now or setting out a plan for the next 12 months could help you make the most of them!

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Forget the new year, spring is the perfect time to set new goals

April 2023

If you’ve struggled to keep up your new year’s resolutions, here is why you should try setting new goals in spring instead!

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Estate planning: Do you need to include Inheritance Tax?

April 2023

The value of your estate could mean it’s liable for Inheritance Tax when you pass away. Discover if your family could be left with a bill and how estate planning could mitigate it.

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What does the multiverse theory have to do with cashflow modelling? Find out here

April 2023

Financial planning doesn’t have a lot in common with science fiction. However, cashflow modelling lets you explore your financial decisions and how they could lead to potentially different lives.

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Estate planning: 3 different ways you can pass on wealth to your loved ones

March 2023

When you’re creating an estate plan, thinking about how you’ll pass on wealth is important. You may want to leave an inheritance, provide gifts during your lifetime, or create a trust. Find out more about these three options here.

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As a think tank calls for a lifetime ISA cap, how much do you benefit from the savings incentive?

March 2023

A think tank is arguing that a £100,000 lifetime cap on ISA savings would make the incentive fairer and could boost the Treasury’s coffers. Find out how you benefit from saving or investing through an ISA under the current rules.

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5 inaccurate expert predictions that prove why you shouldn’t try to time the market

March 2023

It can be tempting to try and time the market to make the most of your investments. Yet, expert predictions in the past clearly demonstrate how difficult it is as so many factors influence short-term movements. Read five predictions that proved to be wrong here.

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Estate planning: How to understand the value of your assets and estate

February 2023

Understanding what your estate includes and the value of your assets is crucial in creating an effective estate plan. Find out what you should consider here.

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Is your mindset holding you back from enjoying your retirement? Financial planning could help

February 2023

When you retire common concerns often centre on money. Yet, one thing that could be holding you back from fully enjoying retirement is your mindset. It can be difficult for some retirees to switch from saving to depleting their assets. Find out how financial planning could help here.

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International Women’s Day: 5 things you could do to improve your long-term financial wellbeing

February 2023

While women are more financially independent than ever, there’s still a gender gap. To mark International Women’s Day, find out what you could do to improve your financial resilience and have confidence in the future.

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Estate planning: What is it and why does it matter?

February 2023

Have you considered your estate plan? If it’s a task you’ve been putting off, discover five reasons you should make it a priority here.

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How to deal with political uncertainty when making financial decisions

November 2022

The last few months have been turbulent in British politics. From U-turns to volatile markets, it can affect your confidence in your financial plan. Discover four things you should keep in mind during uncertainty here.

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The cost of living crisis is giving scammers more opportunities. Here are 3 scams to watch out for

November 2022

Criminals are using the cost of living crisis to target victims using elaborate scams. It can be easier than you think to overlook the warning signs, so understanding how fraudsters target victims could help you.

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State Pension triple lock: Pensioners set to benefit from a 10.1% rise

November 2022

High inflation means that the State Pension is set to increase by a record amount in the 2023/24 tax year. Find out how much your income could increase here.

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Behavioural finance: The effect of psychology on investors

October 2022

Bias can affect financial decisions and how you think about money. Understanding behavioural finance can help you make better decisions. Find out why bias could affect you here.

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Investment market update: September 2022

October 2022

Discover what happened to affect investment markets in September. From the emergency budget in the UK to growing recession worries in the eurozone, investors are still facing volatility and uncertainty.

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Before you increase pension withdrawals as the cost of living rises, here’s what you need to consider

October 2022

As the cost of living rises, you may want to increase the income you take from your pension. Before you do, it’s important to weigh up if it could have a long-term effect on your financial security.

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1 in 3 savers worry they’ve “lost” a pension. Here’s how to track them down

September 2022

It’s easier than you might think to lose track of pensions, especially if you move job or house. It could mean you’ve overlooked some savings that could support your retirement goals. Find out how to track down a “lost” pension here.

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How much has the value of your home changed? Here’s why it could reduce your mortgage repayments

September 2022

Your home rising in value can seem like it doesn’t have a material effect on your finances. But if you’re paying a mortgage, it could reduce your repayments. Find out why here.

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Cost of living crisis - Why you should review your budget and plans

September 2022

As the cost of living continues to rise, taking some time to review your budget and understand how the decisions you make now could affect long-term plans is vital.

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5 crucial things you need to consider when reviewing your estate plan

August 2022

Once you have an estate plan, regular reviews can help ensure it continues to reflect your wishes and circumstances. Here are five things you should do when reviewing your plan.

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7 important things to know if you're a trustee

August 2022

If you’re a trustee, it’s essential that you understand what your responsibilities are and any restrictions that may be in place. Here are seven important things you need to know.

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Why September’s inflation rate could deliver a bumper boost to your State Pension

August 2022

The government is reinstating the triple lock this year. High inflation could mean the State Pension increases by a record amount in the 2023/24 tax year. Find out why here.

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Income Tax freeze means 1 in 5 could pay the higher rate by 2024/25. Here’s how you could reduce your liability

July 2022

The Income Tax thresholds are now frozen until 2026, and it means more people are expected to pay a higher rate of tax in the coming years. There are some steps you can take to reduce your overall tax liability.

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5 compelling reasons why you should share a financial planner with your family

July 2022

A third of advised families share the same financial planner. It can help your family reduce your tax bill and reach shared goals you may have.

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Inflation: What happened the last time the cost of living was rising this rapidly?

July 2022

You may have heard that inflation is at a 40-year high. In the 1980s, it led to high interest rates, a recession, and high levels of unemployment. Find out why and how it’s different to the current situation here.

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26% of people say thinking about finances makes them anxious, as research highlights a link to mental health

June 2022

Your wellbeing and finances are often linked. New research has found that more than a quarter of people feel anxious about money, and this rises to more than half of people who have experienced mental health challenges

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52% of savers don’t understand the effects of inflation, and millions think they’ll be better off. Here’s why it can harm your savings

June 2022

Interest rates are starting to rise, but that doesn’t mean that inflation will have a positive effect on your savings. In real terms, they are likely falling in value

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Total tax collected from exceeding the pension Lifetime Allowance is set to reach almost £1.5 billion annually

June 2022

Cuts to the Lifetime Allowance in the last decade means more people than ever are facing additional tax charges when they access their pension. It’s crucial you understand if you could be affected by exceeding the threshold

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How long will you spend in retirement as more people than ever reach 100?

May 2022

More people than ever are celebrating their 100th birthday. Spending longer in retirement means you need a financial plan that will provide a long-term income when you give up work.

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How a virtual “shopping basket” is used to calculate the rate of inflation

May 2022

You’ve probably heard a lot about inflation in the last few months. So, how is it calculated? The Office for National Statistics uses a “shopping basket” of goods to measure how prices have changed.

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Garden Wildlife Week: 8 practical tips for encouraging nature to flourish in your garden

May 2022

Garden Wildlife Week celebrates British wildlife and encourages homeowners to create space for nature. If you want to create a haven in your garden, here are some practical tips to help.

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Why it pays to use your 2022/23 ISA allowance right now

April 2022

While you may be tempted to leave using your annual ISA allowance until the end of the tax year, using it now could boost your savings and provide peace of mind.

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Will disputes are on the rise. 3 things you can do to minimise the chances of your wishes being challenged

April 2022

While still rare, the number of will disputes is rising. It could mean your assets aren’t distributed according to your wishes, but there are some things you can do to minimise the chances of it happening.

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HMRC refunds £42 million in overpaid tax to pensioners. Have you paid too much?

April 2022

In the last quarter of 2021, HMRC returned more than £42 million in overpaid tax to retirees. If you’ve paid too much tax when accessing your pension, find out why and what you can do here.

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Uncertainty abounds – it always does

February 2022

Today, it certainly feels like the world is in a very uncertain place - an article from our investment committee partner, Albion Strategic.

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World Book Day: 10 children’s books that can still delight adults

February 2022

This year is the 25th anniversary of World Book Day, which aims to encourage a love of books and reading in children. To celebrate, find 10 fantastic children’s books you can still enjoy as an adult here.

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Is the interest rate rise good news for savers?

February 2022

The Bank of England has increased its interest base rate. At first glance, this may seem like good news for savers, but the high rate of inflation means you could still be losing value in real terms.

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State Pension Review: Why it matters to your retirement plans

February 2022

The government is reviewing the State Pension, and there are suggestions that the State Pension Age could rise. The outcome of the review may affect your retirement plans.

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7 great financial books that could really boost your knowledge about money

January 2022

From the basics of personal finance to exploring the psychology of money, discover seven great financial books that could really boost your knowledge

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Financial security for your spouse – 5 clever ways to provide it if you die

January 2022

If you worry about how your spouse or partner would cope financially if the worst happened, discover five clever ways you could ensure their financial security

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How pension sharing could help divorcing couples avoid a financial nightmare

January 2022

Research shows 24% of divorcees waive their rights to pensions, which may result in future financial difficulties. Learn why pension sharing is so important

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What is the £86,000 care cap and will it help you? Here’s what you must know

November 2021

The government has introduced a care cap that could limit how much you pay for later-life care. Read on to find out what it covers, and if it could help you

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3 powerful reasons why you need to know how much State Pension you’re entitled to

November 2021

Your State Pension could be vital in providing financial security in retirement. Discover 3 reasons why knowing how much you’re entitled to could be critical

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5 amazing ways music can boost your mood and help you feel happy

November 2021

One in five people say music and livestreaming events were the biggest support to their mental health in lockdown. Discover five ways music can boost your mood

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3 vital things you need to know about the Dividend Tax increase

October 2021

The government plans to increase Dividend Tax, meaning you could face a larger liability in the future. Read on to discover three things you need to know.

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How the State Pension triple lock suspension could hurt women more

October 2021

The State Pension triple lock suspension could impact on your retirement, especially if you’re a woman. Learn why and what you could do if you’re affected.

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Scam epidemic: how to quickly spot if you're being scammed

October 2021

As Britain continues to deal with Covid, crooks have been busier than ever trying to steal your money. Discover how you could spot a scam if you’re contacted.

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Retirement Rule 1: Don't run out of money

September 2021

Of all the financial challenges and concerns that we face over our lifetimes, avoiding running out of money in retirement probably sits at the top of the list.

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6 easy but expensive mistakes to avoid with inherited investments

September 2021

If you have inherited investments from a loved one, there are six common but costly mistakes you could make. Discover what they are and how to avoid them

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Surprisingly simple ways to reduce your exposure to Capital Gains Tax

September 2021

The government’s Capital Gains Tax take looks set to rise thanks in part to the freezing of the annual exemption. Learn 6 ways you could reduce your liability

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10 effective ways to get your garden ready for autumn

September 2021

As summer ends, what can you do to prepare your garden for the chillier seasons ahead. Discover 10 top ways to get your garden ready for autumn

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3 tax reforms the government could make that may hit your pension hard

August 2021

After record borrowing to shore up the UK’s economy during lockdown, the government may introduce tax reforms that could impact your pension. Discover how.

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15 unusual but legitimate ways to cut a tax bill

August 2021

There are hundreds of tax breaks you can use, some of which you may not have heard of. Discover 15 unusual but legitimate ways you could cut your tax bill.

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10 simple apps to help you tackle global warming and reduce your waste

August 2021

As world leaders prepare to discuss the issue of global warming at a critical UK summit, discover 10 apps that could help you tackle climate change

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The gender pay gap: How it goes beyond salaries and affects retirement

July 2021

While steps have been taken to close the gender pay gap, it’s still having a huge impact on pensions and the financial security women have later in life.

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"It won’t pay out" and other financial protection myths busted

July 2021

Less than half of UK adults have any type of financial protection. If you’re among them, it could leave you vulnerable to financial shocks.  

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7 apps to give your brain a workout

July 2021

Do you want to improve your mental skills? These seven apps make it easy to add a daily brain workout to your routine. 

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3 important ways our financial planning boosts your financial wellbeing and happiness

June 2021

Research shows money and wealth security is only half the story when it comes to financial wellbeing. Discover the other half and how we aim to deliver it

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5 vital things you need to know about lifestyling your pension and why it might not be right for you

June 2021

Lifestyling your pension as you approach retirement is common practice. But here are five things you need to know about it, and why it may not be right for you

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8 powerful ways to solve cryptic crossword puzzles

June 2021

Sometimes it feels impossible to solve cryptic crossword puzzles. Learn eight powerful ways to solve even the most baffling clues provided in the brain teasers

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3 reasons long-term care could reduce the amount you leave to loved ones

May 2021

The cost of long-term care may reduce your wealth and the amount of money you can leave loved ones. Discover why, and what your options may be.

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What you need to know about scams and how you could better protect yourself from criminals

May 2021

Fraudsters are busier than ever trying to steal your money. Learn five ways they do this, and how you could better protect yourself from scammers.

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10 brilliant ways to get the most from your barbecue and produce fantastic food this summer

May 2021

Planning a summer of barbecues this year? How do you get the most from your barbecue to produce mouth-watering dishes? Discover great tips from three top chefs

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The dilemma of trying to do the right thing

April 2021

Increasingly clients are asking us about the environmental impact of their investment strategy. The dilemma of trying to do the right thing isn't necessarily as straightforward as it might seem as this article from our investment committee partner - Albion Strategic - highlights

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3 practical reasons cash savings could cost you dear

April 2021

You may prefer to keep your money in cash at this turbulent time, but cash savings could erode the value of your money in real terms. Here are 3 reasons why.

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5 powerful reasons to start your financial plan early this tax year

April 2021

Starting your financial plan at the beginning of the tax year means better potential growth could mean less tax to pay. Here’s how.

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Lasting Power of Attorney: is it helpful? 10 powerful reasons you need one (GB version)

April 2021

This Morning presenter Kate Garraway has spoken publicly about the need to create a Lasting Power of Attorney. Here are 10 reasons you should have one.

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Power of Attorney: is it helpful? 10 powerful reasons you need one

April 2021

Television’s Kate Garraway has spoken about the problems she has faced without a Power of Attorney. Here’s why you need to create one.

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How did your behavioural biases affect your wealth in 2020?

March 2021

This year, investment markets have been volatile, and it’s natural to want to react to this. However, research shows those that let financial bias affect their decisions missed out on returns.

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How might the budget affect your budget?

March 2021

The chancellor’s second budget was, perhaps surprisingly, quite restrained in terms of tax rises, but he warned of more to come in the future

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It is difficult to predict, especially the future*

February 2021

Even with perfect knowledge of future events, can we predict what markets are going to do?

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When the music stops

February 2021

Gamestop, hedge funds, reddit - what does it all mean, and does it matter to me?

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When I'm 64 (well, maybe 67 or 68)

January 2021

What is the basic state pension really worth?

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The emperor's new clothes

January 2021

Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency - what's all the excitement about?

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Happy New Year

January 2021

Amid all the gloom, there are signs that 2021 is going to be a better year

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