Blogs & News
Financial advice in popular culture
There are very few examples of financial advisers on our screens and stories. Those that we see are worlds away from the usual day-to-day of an IFA. If your sole reference is Marty Bird of Ozark, you might benefit from this article.
The make-up of portfolios and the importance of global equities
It would take a brave person to predict the outcome of Brexit right now given the political and legal wrangling that appears to lie ahead. But what impact is this having on investors?
The financial planning requirements of James Bond, Harry Potter and Doctor Who
We take a look at the finances of three fictional heroes from the UK and discuss how financial planning could help them. While we had a lot of fun writing this article, it highlights several specialist areas of financial advice, and how versatile an adviser’s toolbox can be.
How political risk affects investments
Investment managers consider political risk when making investments. At the moment there’s a lot of talk on both sides of the Brexit argument about the potential impact of the UK leaving the EU either with or without a deal…
No such thing as a ‘no risk’ pension
When looking at options for funding your retirement, it’s important to understand that your pension pot will be invested – and as with all investments, your capital is at risk.
Equity release in retirement; supplementing your pension with your property
When nearing retirement we face the challenge of ensuring our funds will last. Increasing numbers of UK homeowners have been looking for alternative methods to increase their income in retirement and are turning to their property to supplement their pensions.
How to track down a lost pension or investment
It’s now common for people to have multiple pensions. How can you find details of lost pensions or investments without searching in the attic for the paperwork?
Teacher pension contributions have gone up but how will independent schools cope?
Planned changes to employer pension scheme contributions could hit Independent schools using the Teacher’s Pension Scheme. What are options for independent schools?
Why are some people cashing in final salary pension schemes?
In recent years final salary pension schemes have been phased out by employers because people are living for longer and the uncrystallised liabilities are wreaking havoc with corporate balance sheets. Robert Blumberger explains why this is happening and sounds a cautionary note for those attracted to the idea of transferring.
What does the Woodford fund tell us about self-select funds?
What actions can investors take to protect their investments from fund under-performance?
How online portals are driving up engagement in employee benefits
Recent research found that employee engagement and productivity is HR leader’s primary concerns. Could an online benefits portal be the answer?
Wren Sterling acquires T D Armstrong
Wren Sterling has announced the acquisition of T D Armstrong, a Dunfermline-based independent financial planning business.