Posts by alisonlane

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…

What time do you usually wake up? Some of the world’s most successful people – including Oprah Winfrey and Tim Cook – attribute their incredible achievements to their early alarms. The concept of the “5 am Club” was popularised by Robin Sharma’s book of the same name. Thousands of people around the world now rise…

If you want to start investing or would like to boost an existing portfolio, your mind might turn to using a lump sum. However, there could be benefits to drip-feeding your investments instead. Drip-feeding means you slowly add money to your investment portfolio. So, rather than investing £10,000 straightaway, you might increase your investment portfolio…

It’s the season for giving. This Christmas, you might be thinking about how you could improve the security of your loved ones by gifting them money or assets. Read on to discover five potentially useful allowances that you might want to consider if your estate could be liable for Inheritance Tax (IHT). Some gifts are…

Jeremy Hunt delivered his second Autumn Statement as chancellor on 22 November 2023. While the headline news was cuts to National Insurance rates for employees and self-employed workers, there may have been less attention-grabbing changes that could make your finances easier to manage. Read on to discover how ISA and pension changes might be useful…

Financial reviews provide you with a chance to ensure your financial decisions continue to reflect your goals and circumstances, and to assess if you’re on track. They could also be a useful way to reduce behavioural bias. Over the last few months, you’ve read about why financial reviews are important and why you may need…

As inflation remains stubborn, and interest rates may have to remain higher for longer, recessionary concerns have grown around the world. Read on to discover some of the factors that may have affected your investment portfolio in October 2023.  When reviewing short-term market movements, remember to focus on your long-term investment goals. UK After a…

Did you know the amount of waste generated in the UK increases by around 30% over the festive period? While it’s the season for joy and giving, being more mindful about how you celebrate Christmas this year could help you enjoy a more sustainable celebration.  If you want to reduce the environmental impact your family…

According to This Is Money, more than 2,700 people have built up an enviable £1 million in their ISA. Regular contributions and investing could be the secret to reaching this goal. Read on to find out why.  An ISA is a tax-efficient way to save or invest. In the 2023/24 tax year, you can place…