The government has confirmed it will move ahead with plans to include unspent defined contribution pensions in IHT calculations from April 2027. This marks a major change: until now, pensions have usually fallen outside the estate for IHT, often making them an efficient way to pass on wealth.

What’s changing?

Following consultation, some elements of the original proposal have changed. Death in service benefits paid from registered pension schemes will remain exempt, as will scheme pensions paid to a dependant from defined benefit arrangements and death benefits from collective money purchase schemes. The government has also confirmed that a deceased person’s legal personal representatives will be responsible for declaring pension benefits within the IHT return to HMRC.

Impact on estates

Around 8% of estates are expected to be affected annually, with average IHT bills rising by an estimated £34,000. The impact could be greater if individuals do not review their arrangements in light of the changes. From 2027, all estates that include pensions will need to assess whether IHT is due, creating potential delays as pension providers and executors share information.

Another concern is the risk of double taxation. Pensions inherited after age 75 are already taxed as income; from 2027, they could also face IHT. This could leave beneficiaries losing more than half the pension value to tax, even at basic rates.

Planning considerations

There are ways to reduce future IHT exposure, such as:

• Gifting – Up to £3,000 annually tax-free, with the IHT impact on larger gifts reducing in stages to zero after seven years
• Trusts – Though complex, these can remove assets from the estate
• Charitable giving – Leaving 10% of the estate to charity reduces IHT rate to 36%
• Whole of life insurance – Written in trust to cover IHT liabilities

Looking ahead

The change highlights the need for careful estate planning. With rules shifting, pensions can no longer be assumed to fall outside IHT. Reviewing your position now – including pensions, property, and other assets – will help ensure your wealth is passed on as intended. With the rules not applying until April 2027, there is still time to plan effectively.

*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. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate. Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

Social media finfluencers. Internet searches. AI chatbots. A growing number of people in the UK are turning to unregulated – and often unreliable – sources for financial advice.

A recent study (Fidelity International, 2025) revealed that 40% of UK investors used social media to inform their financial decisions in the last two years, with 12% specifically turning to finfluencers – or financial influencers – who post on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. 

To protect investors from misleading advice, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is taking decisive action. Last year, it suspended, removed or blocked more than 1,600 websites suspected of promoting financial services without permission. 

The regulator has also collaborated with tech giants, such as Google and Apple, to remove more than 50 financial scam apps in a bid to tackle fraud.

Avoid making an expensive mistake

The FCA crackdown targeted authorised firms too, with nearly 20,000 non-compliant financial promotions being amended or withdrawn in 2024 alone, compared with fewer than 600 in 2021. For some, however, the action has come too late. More than half of adults who have made financial decisions based on social media advice have lost money, according to data from one UK bank (TSB, July 2025).

Scammers now impersonating the FCA 

In the first half of the year, the FCA have received 4,465 reports of fraudsters impersonating the regulator, with 480 of the victims losing money (FCA, 2025). The advice is clear – be suspicious of unsolicited calls, texts, emails or offers. The FCA would not ask people to send money, bank account details, passwords or PIN numbers and does not use WhatsApp, other messaging services or automated calls to contact people.

Stay safe, stay informed

With so much unregulated content, advice online and sophisticated scams, even experienced investors can be caught out. You need to be on your guard. We’re here to guide you through and help you make professionally advised, confident, informed choices to benefit, not jeopardise your financial future.

*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.

As the days shorten and the evenings draw in, autumn is a natural time to pause and take stock. As we prepare for the colder months ahead, it can be a good time to hunker down and reflect on your financial resilience. Are your plans in good shape for whatever lies ahead – and are there steps you could take now to feel more confident about the future?

Establishing robust financial foundations is essential in times of economic uncertainty and elevated living costs. A recent study (Royal London’s Financial Resilience Report 2025) found that essential bills, such as energy and food, have continued to increase for most people in 2025, although around a quarter of respondents reported that their housing costs have eased slightly.

Positive signs – but knowledge gaps revealed

Despite ongoing cost of living challenges, retirement planning is back on track for at least half the population. In this year’s survey, only 43% of UK adults said their retirement plans and savings had been impacted by higher living expenses compared with 75% in 2024 – a positive shift.

Although this bodes well for long-term financial resilience, the report revealed a worrying disconnect. Seven in 10 people don’t know the value of their pension pot and 52% have not considered how much money they need to fund their retirement.

Check in on your pension

Reviewing your contributions, underlying investments and whether your strategy still reflects your goals can help strengthen long-term security. Small adjustments today can compound into meaningful differences tomorrow.

Cash savings – need a boost?

The report paints a mixed picture when it comes to savings – the number of people going overdrawn after covering their living expenses has fallen, but at the same time there’s a worrying lack of short-term savings. Building short-term resilience, in the form of a savings buffer, is important as this can help you withstand unexpected financial shocks.

Sow the seeds for security and success

Resilience is about balance – not letting current financial challenges derail your long-term planning. By taking time this autumn to review your pensions, savings and investments, you can feel more confident that your financial future is on track.

We can provide the support you need to move beyond short-term survival and build lasting financial resilience – helping you thrive with confidence in the years ahead.

*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.

As we enter the final quarter of what has been an eventful year so far, investors have had much to navigate. From sharp US policy shifts, geopolitical instability, global trade realignments and a changing labour market, to the energy transition, elevated uncertainty and the prevalence of mega forces such as artificial intelligence. The investing landscape continues to evolve rapidly. What matters now is recognising the defining features shaping this environment as it transforms.

Inflation expectations are no longer anchored at 2% targets, fiscal discipline is under pressure and long-term growth trajectories are shifting. Against this backdrop, markets are reacting more quickly to short-term data, as investors look to interpret what it signals for both near-term performance and longer-term outcomes.

Key policy priorities

The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) latest World Economic Update projects global growth expectations of 3% this year, rising slightly to 3.1% in 2026 – an upgrade on earlier forecasts. The revision reflects front-loading ahead of tariff changes, lower effective tariff rates, improved financial conditions, and fiscal expansion in key economies. While global inflation is expected to ease, it is anticipated to remain above target in some key countries

like the US and on home shores. The IMF deduce, ‘Downside risks from potentially higher tariffs, elevated uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions persist. Restoring confidence, predictability and sustainability remains a key policy priority.’

Inflection point

During the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting at the start of the year, President and CEO Børge Brende said, “we are at an inflection point,” adding that the forum was taking place during “one of the most uncertain geopolitical and geoeconomic moments in generations.”

Fast forward to their August review and the Forum highlighted how a number of key issues are set to shape the global outlook over the coming months. These include renewed collaboration to tackle conflict and misinformation, large-scale reskilling to meet job transformation, redesigning financial systems for longer lifespans, greater investment in sustainable infrastructure and the energy transition, and accelerating gender parity and digital inclusion.

Together, these areas underline both the challenges and opportunities of this moment – and why, for investors, staying agile, globally diversified and aligned with long-term structural shifts, will be key to capturing growth while managing risk in line with their personal tolerances.

Embracing change

The key is not just to acknowledge this transformation but to see the opportunities it creates. Understanding how these forces interact can help position portfolios to capture growth while protecting against volatility in a changing world. The good news? You’ve got us to help you traverse and capitalise on these driving forces shaping our world.

*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.

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.