April’s surprise tariffs announced by Donald Trump on ‘Liberation Day’ unsettled global markets and caused a sharp sell off from panicked investors. Trump announced a 90-day pause of the reciprocal tariffs on 9 April and markets picked-up. The recovery then continued in the weeks following but uncertainty continues, leaving many investors asking – “when is the right time to invest?”

Is there ever a perfect moment?
It’s natural to feel more cautious during periods of uncertainty, but waiting for the ‘right’ time can often mean missing out completely. Markets tend to recover, and investors who resist the urge to sell, often find that patience is rewarded. In fact, history shows some of the best investment days followed the worst days, although trying to predict when is notoriously difficult.

Managing emotions and expectations
Negative headlines can encourage investors to switch or sell their investments, but emotional investment decisions rarely lead to better outcomes. A diversified, well-built portfolio should be able to manage short-term volatility while you stay focused on your long-term goals. Instead of trying to time the market, consider your long-term plans. The sooner you start, the more time your investments have to grow.

Time in the market, not timing the market
And the longer you’re invested, the more likely you are to benefit from long-term growth. Research shows that staying invested through the ups and downs beatsjumping in and out of the market based on short-term events. In other words, it’s time in the market that matters most.

Confidence and clarity
We can help make a plan that suits your goals, time horizon and risk appetite, giving you the confidence to invest calmly, whatever the market is doing.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. Financial protection policies typically have no cash in value at any time and cover will cease at the end of the term. If premiums stop, then cover will lapse.

Building financial empowerment is all about the confidence that comes from knowing you are in control of your finances. As more savers risk falling behind on their retirement goals, proactive pension saving is in the spotlight.

Retirement plans
With cost-of-living pressures weighing on many households, building a retirement fund has understandably taken a back seat for many savers. As a result, according to a new survey (Scottish Widows, 2025) 39% of Brits are not on track for a ‘minimum retirement lifestyle,’ up from 35% in 2023.

Feel empowered
The first step to taking control of your pension goals is to understand how much you will need in your retirement. As a general guide, the Pension and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) estimates that a single person would need £13,400 a year for a minimum lifestyle standard in retirement (£21,600 for a couple). Note that this is for people living outside London and excludes housing costs. For a moderate lifestyle, these figures increase to £31,700 (single person) and £43,900 per annum (couple).

Know your options
Effective planning, starting early and contributing regularly allows your pension pot to build over time. For employees, saving into a defined contribution pension can help your pension pot build up, as your employer also makes contributions. It’s worth checking if you could pay more than the minimum amount. Self-employed workers have fewer options, which is why
two in five say they aren’t saving enough for retirement and 23% are not saving anything at all. Personal pensions are an option for everyone, and like all pensions, offer tax relief, long-term savings growth potential, financial security in retirement and control over investment choices.

Take the first step
Feeling empowered to make informed decisions leads to proactive steps towards a financially resilient future. While challenges remain, your retirement is too important to neglect – it’s time to take control and feel empowered! You can’t afford not to.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

The UK’s ‘great wealth transfer’ will see an estimated £5.5trn to £7trn passed down the generations in the next 30 years. As money, property and assets are passed on through inheritance, gifts and estate transfers, it is important to understand what this will mean for you.

“How can I secure my legacy?”

Baby boomers (born 1946–1964) control more than half (Vanguard) of the UK’s wealth. Mostly, they are financially comfortable, though may be worried about their children or grandchildren. The key is to start the conversation with family members early. This means taking a proactive approach to financial planning – securing your legacy will bring peace of mind.

“How can I save time?”

The first beneficiaries of the great wealth transfer are likely to be Generation X (born 1965–1980). Typically, this group is time poor, with a mortgage and multiple dependants to look after. For Gen X, thinking about the great wealth transfer might not be a priority, but seeking advice now with retirement, general financial planning and starting conversations with your parents, can save you a lot of time and stress later. Advice to simplify your decisions, reduce debt, invest wisely, understand taxes, tune into estate planning and prioritise long-term goals to manage inherited wealth responsibly, and with confidence, will prove advantageous.

“How can I achieve my financial goals?”

Millennials (1981–1996) typically have lower wealth levels than older generations but are highly motivated to improve their financial future. To build confidence and prepare a solid financial plan for the next 30 years (and beyond), it is a good idea to start working with us early, so you’re well-equipped to deal with what’s coming your way.

Talk it through

Whatever life stage you’re at, planning early and seeking advice will help you embrace the future with confidence. We can help you navigate the great wealth transfer.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

The pandemic, raised geopolitical tensions and supply chain shocks have all forced companies to rethink how they operate. Many, although not all, are moving away from globalisation strategies and focusing on greater resilience instead, with ‘nearshoring’ – bringing supply chains closer to home – becoming the priority.

A transition from ‘just-in-time’ to ‘just-in-case’ logistics
Nearshoring reflects a move away from ‘just-in-time’ efficiency towards ‘just-in-case’ preparedness. The need for supply chain stability and faster turnaround times is encouraging businesses to bring their operations closer to the markets they serve. ‘Trump Tariffs’ have only underlined the need for companies to explore their options. This is opening up new opportunities in both developed and emerging markets.

For example, countries like Mexico, Poland and Vietnam are positioning themselves as regional production hubs. Demand is also increasing across sectors such as automation, logistics, real estate, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing, as companies modernise supply chains closer to home.

A temporary trend or lasting change?

While some view nearshoring as a short-term response to recent disruptions, others see globalisation weakening. Perhaps, but labour costs in nearshoring destinations are often higher than in traditional offshore markets, while infrastructure and policy support can vary widely. Also, restructuring supply chains is complex, expensive and time-consuming. Political risk and protectionist policies all add to the challenges.

What do the professionals think?

According to investment manager PGIM, despite rising tariffs and shifting trade, around 75% of the world’s economy remains focused on global integration rather than nearshoring. Shehriyar Antia, Head of Thematic Research at PGIM, explains, “Even if America’s ‘small
yard’ of protected industries grows larger, companies in most industries will still seek out the benefits of free trade and competitive advantage.”

An evolving investment theme

While nearshoring will create new investment opportunities, choosing the right ones takes careful research. As the global economy evolves, those who identify and understand long-term trends are likely to be rewarded. You can rely on us to do just that.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated.

Summer should bring a welcome shift in pace: longer days, warmer evenings, time off and the chance for some well-earned rest and recuperation. Whether you’re planning a trip abroad or staying closer to home, it’s a good time to take stock of life, this extends to your finances too. 

Take this year’s Autumn Budget, where there’s a good chance the Chancellor will announce new changes to tax rules and allowances. So now might be the right time to prepare for what’s likely further down the line and maximise current opportunities.

Long-term thinking

It’s been a challenging year for investors, with uncertainty weighing on markets, but short-term fluctuations don’t change the case for long-term investing. And besides, opportunities often present when markets are under pressure.

Revisiting your investment goals

Reviewing your portfolio to check it still reflects your risk tolerance and financial goals is always a wise move. Whether your circumstances have changed, or your priorities have shifted, we can help assess your options and make sensible adjustments, if necessary.

Using your allowances

Now’s a good time to check in on your ISA and pension contributions. Using your annual ISA allowance can help shield your savings and investments from Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax (CGT). Pension contributions also offer valuable tax relief and reviewing them before any potential policy changes may make sense.

If you’re considering selling assets, such as shares or property you don’t live in, make use of your CGT exemption, which was halved last year. With further changes to IHT ahead, reviewing any current estate planning strategies – including making use of annual gifting allowances – could help reduce future liabilities on your estate.

Stay one step ahead this summer

While we don’t have a crystal ball about potential changes, we can make sure your financial strategies are working hard for you. We’re always keeping a close eye on developments which may impact your finances and can help you adapt your plans accordingly. By proactively addressing these areas together, you can position yourself to better withstand fiscal changes and optimise your financial wellbeing in the process.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

With life moving fast, demands on our time and finances never-ending, it’s easy to push pensions down the priority list. Then there’s the ‘noise’ created by global geopolitics, economic challenges and their impact on markets and in turn your finances. Sometimes burying your head in the sand (preferably on a summer holiday) may seem like the most favourable option! 

When it comes to your finances, neither inertia nor acting in haste is recommended. In fact, making informed, strategic, confident decisions about your wealth has arguably never been more important. 

A decade on from pension freedoms: are savers making informed choices? 

Since pension freedoms were introduced in 2015, many over 55s have been accessing their pensions without understanding the tax implications or seeking advice. Research (Royal London, 2025) among over-50s has found that only four in ten had considered the tax implications of withdrawing taxable lump sums and just 39% had taken financial advice. Also, while over half took the full 25% tax-free lump sum, many paid off debts or made the peculiar decision to move it into savings. Nearly one in five didn’t seek any guidance at all. With life expectancy on the rise, almost half of over-50s are worried about running out of money in retirement.

‘Lottery effect’ puts pension pots at risk

Many retirees risk running out of pension savings by their late 70s as a result of the so-called ‘lottery effect’ (where access to large sums prompts impulsive spending) likely to blame, according to a new study (L&G, 2025). One in seven see their pension lump sum as a bonus and nearly half access it simply because they can. With the average life expectancy of a current 60-year-old in the UK sitting at 86, some retirees could be left with a shortfall between their

retirement funds running out and the end of their life. With new rules likely to be introduced from 2027 regarding unused pensions becoming subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT), careful planning remains key to long-term retirement security.

How career paths define your pension pot

Research (Standard Life, 2025) shows career progression significantly affects pension outcomes. Someone earning £25,000 at 22, with steady 3.5% annual pay rises, could retire at 68 with a £210,000 pension pot, while salary growth of 5% could boost this to £290,000. However, retiring as early as 58, for example, could reduce that pot to £176,000. While rapid career growth helps, burnout or early retirement can limit gains. Therefore, balancing ambitious career choices with wellbeing is critical.

Time to focus on your pension?

Whatever life stage you’re at, we’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions. Your pension deserves some airtime.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

As spring gets under way, the UK property market is looking refreshed. Ri

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced plans to include unused pension funds and death benefits within the value of estates for IHT purposes, during the Autumn Budget 2024. Under the proposals, pension administrators will report and pay IHT directly to HMRC.

Death-in-service benefits paid out by employers have traditionally been separate from personal pensions for the purposes of calculating an IHT bill. By including unused pensions and death-in-service benefits in IHT calculations, more estates could face higher taxes.

This announcement came as a surprise, particularly to those who have worked hard to build a pension as a tax-efficient way to pass wealth on to loved ones. Any changes are likely to have the greatest impact on people with established estate plans.

Timeline

A 12-week technical consultation on the proposed changes concluded on 22 January. Once the feedback has been reviewed, government consultation principles outline that responses should be published within 12 weeks. By the third quarter of the year, the government is expected to provide specific implementation guidance on how pensions and death benefits will be treated under the new regime. Any changes won’t take effect until 6 April 2027.

As proposals are not finalised, it’s wise to consider potential implications but await the final guidance before overhauling plans. This still gives us ample time to make changes before implementation in 2027.

A review of existing pension arrangements would be useful so we can think about how the proposed changes could affect what your beneficiaries would receive.

Time and knowledge

Rest assured we are monitoring developments and will keep you in touch as we know more. When we have more certainty, we may suggest you consider alternative options that ensure your estate remains as tax efficient as possible and aligned with your goals. Together, we’ll help you secure your family’s future with confidence.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

ghtmove (Rightmove, 2025)

reports the average asking price rose by 1.7% (£5,992) to £366,189 in January 2025, the best start to the year since 2020. This suggests both buyers and sellers are optimistic about the property market this year. 

Why is spring popular with buyers and sellers?

Longer daylight hours and blooming gardens make properties more appealing in springtime, boosting seller prospects. Rightmove says nearly 70% of homes listed in February and March go through to completion, with February homes taking an average of just 51 days to find a buyer.

A buyer’s market

With more homes being listed, buyers have more options and better chances of securing a good deal. Sellers are pricing competitively, and mortgage rates have stabilised, with a five-year fixed rate at 4.75%, slightly lower than last year’s 4.78%. 

How buyers can get a head-start 

Acting early can help buyers beat the competition. Securing a mortgage agreement in principle before starting the search strengthens a buyer’s position when making an offer. A clear budget is essential, considering not just the deposit but also legal fees, Stamp Duty, and moving costs. First-time buyers (FTBs) should also be aware of Stamp Duty changes from 1 April affecting properties over £300,000.

Researching local property prices and neighbourhoods helps buyers assess fair value. Transport links, schools, and shops can impact both lifestyle and long-term investment potential. With high demand expected, scheduling viewings early increases the chances of securing the right home before competition intensifies.

Talk to us about your plans

We can help buyers and sellers create a strategy to manage savings, navigate mortgage options and make informed decisions. With strong market conditions and increased choice, now looks a great time to move onto or up the property ladder.

*As a mortgage is secured against your home or property, it could be repossessed if you do not keep up mortgage repayments.

As spring gets under way, the UK property market is looking refreshed. Rightmove (Rightmove, 2025)

reports the average asking price rose by 1.7% (£5,992) to £366,189 in January 2025, the best start to the year since 2020. This suggests both buyers and sellers are optimistic about the property market this year. 

Why is spring popular with buyers and sellers?

Longer daylight hours and blooming gardens make properties more appealing in springtime, boosting seller prospects. Rightmove says nearly 70% of homes listed in February and March go through to completion, with February homes taking an average of just 51 days to find a buyer.

A buyer’s market

With more homes being listed, buyers have more options and better chances of securing a good deal. Sellers are pricing competitively, and mortgage rates have stabilised, with a five-year fixed rate at 4.75%, slightly lower than last year’s 4.78%. 

How buyers can get a head-start 

Acting early can help buyers beat the competition. Securing a mortgage agreement in principle before starting the search strengthens a buyer’s position when making an offer. A clear budget is essential, considering not just the deposit but also legal fees, Stamp Duty, and moving costs. First-time buyers (FTBs) should also be aware of Stamp Duty changes from 1 April affecting properties over £300,000.

Researching local property prices and neighbourhoods helps buyers assess fair value. Transport links, schools, and shops can impact both lifestyle and long-term investment potential. With high demand expected, scheduling viewings early increases the chances of securing the right home before competition intensifies.

Talk to us about your plans

We can help buyers and sellers create a strategy to manage savings, navigate mortgage options and make informed decisions. With strong market conditions and increased choice, now looks a great time to move onto or up the property ladder.

*As a mortgage is secured against your home or property, it could be repossessed if you do not keep up mortgage repayments.

A recent report (Barclays, 2024) estimates 13

The beginning of the new tax year is the perfect opportunity to take control of your finances and set the tone for the months ahead. 

By implementing a thoughtful financial plan, you can make the most of your money, achieve your goals and ensure financial peace of mind. Here are just a few key considerations to help you build a solid plan:

Maximise tax-efficient opportunities

The new tax year brings fresh allowances and reliefs potentially available to reduce your tax liability:

• Use your ISA allowance – Save or invest up to £20,000 (the current annual limit) in an Individual Savings Account (ISA) to grow funds tax-free
• Pension contributions – Maximise pension contributions to benefit from tax relief as well as potentially lowering your taxable income
• Capital Gains Tax planning – Make use of your annual exemption to avoid unnecessary tax liabilities. 

Build a solid financial plan for a stronger financial future

Why not take time to reset and refocus on your financial goals? With clear objectives, smart tax planning and disciplined financial habits, you can start the new tax year strong and lay the foundation for long-term financial success.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. Financial protection policies typically have no cash in value at any time and cover will cease at the end of the term. If premiums stop, then cover will lapse.

million UK adults are sitting on £430bn

of cash savings. The report, titled ‘Empowering retail savers to engage with investing’ suggests savers are “missing out” on earning better returns over the long term.

The research highlights three reasons why savers are reluctant to invest:

•  Too many options: One in five (21%) people with savings don’t think they have the knowledge to choose what to invest in, while 24% think investing is too complicated
• Not confident with comparing investments: Nearly three quarters (74%) need help to determine which type of investment is suitable for them, while two-thirds (63%) want assistance in comparing investment products
• Too worried about risk: Almost half (43%) of savers think investing is too risky and could mean they “lose all their money.”

What is the long-term cost of saving instead of investing?

Financial software firm Oxford Risk believes choosing saving over investing carries a high cost, with savers missing out on up to 5% a year in lost returns. The firm is also concerned that a growing number of UK adults are choosing to ‘sit on the sidelines’ by keeping their money in cash.

What can be done to close the investing gap?

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has made addressing cash holdings a strategic priority and Oxford Risk has urged, ‘More needs to be done beyond just raising awareness of the issue to drive the vital change in investor behaviour.’ 

Holding a proportion of your wealth in cash is worthwhile for liquidity, emergencies and short-term needs. However, history has shown that over the long term, investing yields higher returns than holding cash, although not guaranteed. The key is balance: keep enough cash for security but invest the rest to build wealth over time. Diversification to spread the risk is important.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated.

A recent report (Barclays, 2024) estimates 13 million UK adults are sitting on £430bn

of cash savings. The report, titled ‘Empowering retail savers to engage with investing’ suggests savers are “missing out” on earning better returns over the long term.

The research highlights three reasons why savers are reluctant to invest:

•  Too many options: One in five (21%) people with savings don’t think they have the knowledge to choose what to invest in, while 24% think investing is too complicated
• Not confident with comparing investments: Nearly three quarters (74%) need help to determine which type of investment is suitable for them, while two-thirds (63%) want assistance in comparing investment products
• Too worried about risk: Almost half (43%) of savers think investing is too risky and could mean they “lose all their money.”

What is the long-term cost of saving instead of investing?

Financial software firm Oxford Risk believes choosing saving over investing carries a high cost, with savers missing out on up to 5% a year in lost returns. The firm is also concerned that a growing number of UK adults are choosing to ‘sit on the sidelines’ by keeping their money in cash.

What can be done to close the investing gap?

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has made addressing cash holdings a strategic priority and Oxford Risk has urged, ‘More needs to be done beyond just raising awareness of the issue to drive the vital change in investor behaviour.’ 

Holding a proportion of your wealth in cash is worthwhile for liquidity, emergencies and short-term needs. However, history has shown that over the long term, investing yields higher returns than holding cash, although not guaranteed. The key is balance: keep enough cash for security but invest the rest to build wealth over time. Diversification to spread the risk is important.

*The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated.