The number of searches relating to interest-only mortgages soared by 53% in June, as borrowers sought out ways to lower their monthly expenditure. More interest in interest-only Research1 shows that ‘interest-only mortgages’ was the most common search term in August, ahead of other staples like ‘buy-to-let’ and ‘fixed-term’. The jump is likely to be linked […]
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News in Review
“A critical turning point” World leaders gathered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), last Thursday for the 28th United Nations climate change conference (COP28). At the invitation of UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, King Charles addressed heads of state, leaders of governments and delegates at the opening ceremony. The King called on […]
Tax toll on prudent savers
Taxes on savings and dividends are set to top £24bn this fiscal year in what is being seen by some as a fresh attack on savers who have shown prudence and thrift. Savers hit… Higher interest rates mean that more savers are being drawn into paying tax by crossing the Income Tax savings threshold. Interest […]
Let’s talk it through
A pandemic closely followed by a cost-of-living crisis has undoubtedly created a challenging financial backdrop for us all and inevitably heightened money-related stress and anxieties. At times like these, it’s more important than ever to open up and talk any concerns through with loved ones or a professional adviser in order to protect both financial […]
Economic Review – November 2023
OBR cuts economic growth forecast Revised forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) suggest the UK economy is set to grow more slowly over the next two years than previously predicted. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled the independent fiscal watchdog’s latest projections during his Autumn Statement delivered on 22 November. The updated forecast predicts the […]
Autumn Statement 2023
“Our plan for the British economy is working” On 22 November, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt unveiled the government’s latest tax and spending plans saying “we back British business” announcing 110 growth measures which he said would boost business investment by £20bn a year. The Chancellor said the government had taken difficult decisions to […]
Home insurance claims?
Home insurance offers protection against the most likely things that can go wrong in your home. While we often think of outside threats like theft or fire, a new study1 has shown that more claims result from clumsiness than malice. Accidents happen Accidental damage and escape of water are the most common reasons people claim […]
The complexities of succession planning
Succession, the hugely popular TV show, highlights the complexities of wealth transfer. There’s a lot to think about when passing on your wealth – as well as the risk of family disputes, tax implications need to be taken into consideration. Preserving, planning and communication As families accumulate wealth and assets it becomes important to preserve […]
News in Review
“We are beginning to win the battle against inflation” Some positive economic news was delivered last week in the form of better-than-expected inflation data for October. The latest official release from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that in the 12 months to October, the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 4.6%, down from […]
Residential Property Review – November 2023
Residential supply and demand less downbeat According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) October UK Residential Market Survey, demand is still falling faster than supply. New buyer enquiries posted a net balance of -28% during October, marking eighteen successive months in which this indicator has been in negative territory. Nevertheless, the latest reading […]