News in Review

UK inflation unexpectedly rose to 3.6% in June, reducing hopes of imminent interest rate cuts  Retail sales showed strong annual growth of 3.1%, led by food sales and resilient online spending  Unemployment hit 4.7% and vacancies continued to fall, signalling persistent labour market softness and caution  “This surprise uptick in CPI to 3.6% is a […]

News in Review

According to the Bank of England, global financial uncertainty is increasing, but the UK banking system is strong and well-capitalised  The UK economy unexpectedly contracted in May, raising concerns about momentum following strong Q1 growth  In her Mansion House speech, the Chancellor confirmed no immediate changes to Individual Savings Account (ISA) allowances or structure    “Our […]

Summer pension round-up – managing your wealth

Nearly half of over-50s are worried about running out of money in retirement  Many retirees withdraw pension lump sums impulsively, without understanding tax or long-term consequences  Career progression, early retirement and smart planning shape your future pension outcome.  With life moving fast, demands on our time and finances never-ending, it’s easy to push pensions down […]

Summer housing market update – records, challenges and changing trends

Average asking prices hit record highs, but growth is slowing, as analysts suggest we’re in a buyers market  Moving costs have risen sharply across the UK due to changes in tax and associated fees  First-time buyers see improved affordability supported by flexible mortgage products  As summer begins, the housing and mortgage markets are experiencing a […]

Get Budget-ready this summer

Summer is the ideal time to review financial goals and investment strategies  Utilising tax allowances now can protect your wealth from future policy changes  Long-term investing remains key, even amid short-term market volatility  Summer should bring a welcome shift in pace: longer days, warmer evenings, time off and the chance for some well-earned rest and […]

Economic Review June 2025

The UK economy grew modestly in Q2, recovering slightly after April’s sharp GDP contraction of 0.3%  The Bank of England held interest rates at 4.25% but signaled likely cuts from August  Retail sales slumped by 2.7% in May, with supermarkets and clothing stores citing weak consumer demand  Survey points to modest second-quarter growth   Data released […]

News in Review

Realistic pricing is essential as the housing market faces seasonal price dips and increased regional competition  UK consumer confidence dips due to inflation and job concerns, leading to cautious spending and economic pressure  Early summer heat boosts spending, especially among Millennials, despite growing reliance on credit and uneven financial planning  “Realistic pricing will remain key […]

UK cities see strong property market growth

The UK property market experienced a boost in 2024, with nearly 50% of homes listed receiving offers or selling  Cities like Sunderland, Leicester, and Liverpool saw notable increases in buyer activity, while London’s growth was subdued  Rising buyer confidence, stabilising mortgage rates and positive market conditions are expected to keep demand strong   The UK property […]