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.

Investing megatrends are powerful, long-term shifts expected to reshape industries, economies and investment markets on a global scale. These aren’t just passing trends, they’re already changing the way we live and work, influencing how businesses operate and where investors put their money.

Geopolitical conflict

Global tensions have been rising in recent years, with lengthy conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia destabilising markets. Governments are ramping up defence spending, driving investment in military technology, missile systems and cybersecurity, especially as threats coming from AI emerge. For investors, global uncertainty presents opportunities as nations prioritise security and military innovation.

Artificial intelligence

More than just a trend, AI is driving economic change by automating tasks, reshaping business models and boosting efficiency. Massive investment in data centres, cloud computing and hardware is fuelling its expansion, with companies supporting AI infrastructure poised for strong growth. AI is also transforming industries by analysing vast data, generating insights and accelerating digital change. While concerns over

an ‘AI bubble’ have surfaced this year, especially after a new Chinese competitor called DeepSeek made headlines, AI seems unstoppable.

Demand for energy

Global energy consumption is surging, driven by economic growth, transport electrification and again, AI. This rising demand is reshaping the energy sector, creating both challenges and investment opportunities. Nuclear energy is making a comeback, with older plants being refurbished and new projects progressing. Meanwhile, offshore oil and gas exploration is reviving, showing that fossil fuels still play a key role. At the same time, renewable energy is thriving, with investments in solar, wind and hydrogen. Energy systems are increasing in sophistication as companies develop smart grids and energy storage solutions.

Shifting demographics

People are living longer, which means investors can benefit by focusing on sectors set for the rising demand in medical services, treatments and elderly care. Similarly, businesses catering to older consumers, such as those in travel, wellness and lifestyle industries, are poised to capitalise. At the same time, medical innovation is changing how we live and how long we live. Obesity drugs have reduced diabetes risk by 73% and cardiovascular deaths by 20%, while new cancer treatments and AI-driven drugs are pushing boundaries.

While markets fluctuate daily, megatrends are shaping the future, creating exciting opportunities along the way.

*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.

You could take your cue from the Swedes. They believe in ‘döstädning,’ or ‘death cleaning.’ It sounds pessimistic, but it involves decluttering your belongings to reduce the burden you leave behind to loved ones.

The philosophy gained international prominence through a 2018 book called The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, by Margareta Magnusson, but many of the methods described to organise your home and belongings can be applied to your finances as well.

Why should you death clean your finances?

First, it can help you feel more in control of your money. Second, it can help you refocus your time (and money) on what matters most to you. And third, taking time to organise your finances now could spare your loved ones from a great deal of emotional and financial stress after you die.

Key steps in a financial spring clean

It’s a good idea to make a checklist and work your way through. Key steps include:

• Streamline your finances – Close accounts you don’t use, cancel unused subscriptions or memberships, and explore ways to cut back on wasteful spending

•  Build a document library – Gather all important documents, including Wills, insurance policies, investment portfolios and property deeds. Consider storing documents securely online. Having an easily-accessible document library will help make sure your loved ones can find critical information quickly when needed

•  Keep beneficiary information up to date – Review and update beneficiary details on life insurance policies, pensions and expressions of wishes to ensure they reflect your current intentions

• Revisit your investments – Are your investments still aligned with your long-term goals? Has your attitude to risk altered? Maybe your circumstances have changed? This information is important. We’ll monitor performance and rebalance when necessary; updating us on goals, risk preference and life changes will inform investment recommendations

•  Maximise tax-efficiency – The new tax year brings new opportunities, allowances and reliefs to take advantage of, so as to reduce your tax liability. This includes revisiting your IHT strategy, which can help reduce the liability on your estate

•  Consider your retirement plan – Are you saving enough into your pension to provide you with the lifestyle you desire in retirement? Are the underlying investments right for you? If you have multiple pension pots, would consolidating them be relevant for your unique requirements?

Making your plans known to others

Discussing your financial arrangements with trusted family members, and keeping them updated on changes you’ve made, is an important part of the process too. Intergenerational financial planning involves managing wealth and financial strategies across multiple generations of a family, focusing on ensuring financial security, preserving assets and facilitating smooth wealth transfer while considering tax implications, estate planning, and family values. They’re really valuable conversations to have.

Take control

Spring cleaning your finances is about more than just getting organised, it’s about simplifying your life, taking control and leaving the best possible legacy for loved ones. Maybe those Swedes really are on to something. We can help you get organised so you can focus on enjoying life.

*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.

People are increasingly seeking financial guidance on social media. While financial influencers – or ‘finfluencers’ – can be useful in raising awareness around financial matters, there is also a darker side to the growth of unregulated advisers.

Social media age

In the UK, more than one in four people use some combination of social media, community messaging apps and online forums for investment guidance, research (Barclays, 2024) shows. Of those who get their investment advice from social media, one in five cited ‘free access to financial experts’ as a reason. Meanwhile, one in four pointed to the fact it was ‘quick and easy to use’ as justification.

Not all advice is equal

Entrusting your financial decisions to social media, however, comes with risks. One significant danger is that many people are failing to carry out checks on the advice they see online. Specifically, the same study found that more than half of UK adults who use social media for investment guidance do not carry out checks to verify the reliability of ‘finfluencers’ and their content. Young people are especially vulnerable, with increasing numbers falling victim to scams, with finfluencers often involved.

FCA crackdown

The FCA has interviewed 20 finfluencers who may be illegally selling financial services products; the FCA has also issued 38 alerts against social media accounts operated by finfluencers which may contain unlawful promotions. In many instances, these influencers are not FCA-authorised and don’t have the qualifications to give financial advice.

Despite the fact anyone can pose as an expert online, fewer than half of those using ‘finfluencers’ always check that the information comes from a reliable source. Social media has its advantages, but making sure the advice comes from an accredited professional is the best way to steer clear of unsuitable investment advice and scams.

*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.