Blog
Check out our latest thoughts and insights on a variety of financial topics
Start your new tax year planning early
There are a range of changes taking effect when the new tax year begins on the 6th April that could impact your financial planning.
The start of the new tax year will see many allowances and tax bands frozen once again. In reality, these freezes are tax increases as the government has effectively allowed inflation to determine how much greater a proportion of your income and estate should pass to the Treasury. Had the allowances and bands all been increased in line with inflation, then they would be rising by 6.7% for 2024/25, using the standard yardstick of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation to the previous September.
4 considerations when looking for independent financial advice
Whether you’d like assistance with your family budgeting, want to know if you can afford to retire early or need help getting a mortgage, great financial advice can be life changing. But with so many IFA firms out there, how do you know where to go?
The Spring Budget 2024 comes early
A date to note in this year’s calendar is the early Spring Budget on Wednesday 6 March.
The Treasury issued a press release in the time between Christmas and the New Year revealing the Spring Budget date, a week earlier than in 2023. The unusual timing of the announcement may seem strange, but there were two inter-linked reasons which could explain it:
Inflation expected to fall in 2024
At the start of 2023, the Prime Minister pledged to halve inflation. The goal was reached, but how much credit can he take for the achievement?
How much money do I need to get financial advice?
When it comes to managing finances, many people believe that working with a financial adviser is a luxury only for the wealthy. The common misconception is that you need to have a hefty bank account or a net worth in the millions to even consider seeking professional financial guidance. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Most people can afford and benefit from seeking the services of a financial adviser; they just may not realise it yet.
Multi-award-winning financial advice in Leamington Spa
It’s been an incredible start to 2024 for team SFS; we’re thrilled to announce that our Head of Paraplanning, Alex James, has won the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII)’s Young Achiever of the Year Award.
How are current interest rates affecting mortgages?
It’s tricky to navigate the world of mortgages and ever-changing interest rates. But fear not – we're here to demystify – we sat down with Independent Mortgage Adviser, Chris Le Marquand, to get his take on the current market.
The gift of finance this Christmas – and the tax implications
It’s that time of year again when financial gifts may be given... and HMRC is watching.
Tax is never far away from anything you do and making gifts to children at Christmas is no exception. There are a few key tax areas you should bear in mind.
Generational attitudes to retirement planning
A survey of 6,000 people, aged 18 to 80, revealed starkly different views on retirement across the generations.
According to the Office for National Statistics, the median age of the UK population in mid-2021 was 40.7 years, up from 39.6 in mid-2011. Perhaps that gradual ageing and the impact of Covid-19 on working patterns explains why there is a steady flow of research reports on attitudes to, and experiences of, retirement.
The Autumn Statement and controlling your tax bill
The Chancellor’s national insurance contribution (NICs) ‘giveaway’ is no match for his income tax ‘takeaway’.
The central surprise in Jeremy Hunt’s second Autumn Statement was a major reduction in NICs.
UK house prices continue to fall
Since early 2022 rising mortgage rates have taken their toll on house prices.
Whether you're selling, buying, or just keeping an eye - this one's for you.
4 mistakes you might be making with your insurance policies
Your protection policies - home insurance, life insurance, critical illness protection, and many more – should never be an afterthought. It’s very easy to leave them until later, but the stakes are high and they’re crucial in doing exactly what they say on the tin; protecting you, your family, your home, your business. We’ve been helping clients find the best protection for their needs for almost 20 years, and we’ve spotted a few common mistakes along the way.
Have you got your Lasting Powers of Attorney sorted?
The digital revolution has almost reached the administration of lasting powers of attorney (LPA).
Picture the scene: You’ve got all your ducks in a row, and your LPA is sitting beside your Will. This will simplify matters considerably for your family. But have you actually?
Why savings rates aren’t always what they seem
National Savings & Investments has launched two top of the savings league table one-year bonds, but the headline rates might not be your net return.
In August, National Savings & Investments (NS&I) raised the return of many of its offerings, from the Direct ISAs to the Green Savings Bond. However, all eyes have been on the new rates for the one-year Guaranteed Growth Bond (GGB) and Guaranteed Income Bond (GIB).
State pension: Will the ‘triple lock’ survive the next election?
The future of the triple lock is uncertain ahead of a 2024 general election, and with state pension increases potentially outpacing inflation next April.
What’s the triple lock?
Under the triple lock, the basic state pension received in retirement rises each year in line with whichever is the highest out of three factors: wage growth, inflation or 2.5%. Both the old and new state pensions are subject to it.
