Latest Finanical News

News & Insights

Retired couple enjoying a holiday by the pool

Inheritance Tax on Pensions from 2027: Could Your Family Face a 67% Tax Trap?

Advice, General info, Tips | September 3, 2026

By Samuel Mather-Holgate For years, pensions have occupied a particularly valuable place in estate planning. Unlike most other investments, unused pension funds have generally been able to sit outside an individual’s estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. This has meant that many people have deliberately spent ISAs, savings and other assets first while leaving their pension untouched to pass to children or other beneficiaries. That strategy is about to change significantly. From 6 April 2027, most unused pension funds and pension death benefits will be brought within…

Senior couple forming heart symbol - Mather & Murray Financial

Will I have to sell my house to pay for care home fees?

Advice | January 11, 2024

Will the Local Council Pay for My Care Home Fees? Understanding the Landscape There is currently no cap on care home fees in the UK. The UK government…

Cheerful child saving money with a smile - Financial education for kids

Cultivating Money Smarts: A Guide to Teaching Children About Finances

Tips | January 10, 2024

Welcome to a transformative journey of financial empowerment for your little ones! At Mather & Murray Financial, your dedicated financial advisers in Swindon and nationwide, we recognise the…

Mather & Murray Financial on BBC Radio Business Matters

Advice | December 21, 2023

Samuel Mather-Holgate, director at Mather & Murray Financial, interviewed on BBC Radio’s Business Matters on the recent interest rate decision by the Bank of England. Listen BBC Radio…

Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) for Income Tax Reduction - Swindon Financial Advice

How to Reduce My Income Tax Liability with Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs)

Advice | December 21, 2023

Navigating Tax Efficiency for High Earners In the complex world of income tax planning, various schemes can help individuals reduce their tax liability. In this guide, we’ll dive…

Family Investment Company – Strategic Wealth Planning Consultation in Swindon

Unlocking Financial Potential: Understanding the Family Investment Company

Tips | December 15, 2023

Exploring Features and Benefits In the intricate realm of financial planning, the Family Investment Company (FIC) has emerged as a strategic and versatile tool for families looking to…

Comparison of EIS and VCT investments in Swindon – a guide by Mather & Murray Financial

Demystifying Investment Options: EIS vs VCT

Tips | December 7, 2023

Introduction: Navigating the Investment Landscape Investing in the right avenues is paramount for financial growth and security. Two popular options in the UK investment landscape are the Enterprise…

US shutdown how this effects your investments financial planning in swindon

Monday Market Update – 2nd October 2023

Economic Update | October 2, 2023

Economic resistance is about to be tested September is rarely a great month for investors, and last month proved no exception. Broadly, both equities and bond values declined…

European Central Bank (ECB) building- investment advice Swindon

Monday Market Update – Monday 18th September 2023

Economic Update | September 18, 2023

Central bank hawks still determined to defang inflation This time last week, it still seemed as if European Central Bank (ECB) policymakers would hold off on another rate…

Small business advice in Brighton - Tax planning

Tax Planning for Brighton’s Small Business Owners

Advice, Tips | September 12, 2023

Brighton’s vibrant business scene is a melting pot of creativity and entrepreneurship. If you’re a small business owner in this coastal city, you’re part of a dynamic community…

Best financial adviser in Swindon

Monday Market Update – 11th September 2023

Economic Update | September 11, 2023

Oil prices up and an ill wind for renewables So far Markets have been generally quiet during September, but energy is again becoming an issue. Oil prices have…

Bank of England IFA Swindon Financial advice Mather & Murray Financial

Monday Market Update – 4th September 2023

Economic Update | September 4, 2023

New school term has the US top of the class Summer is officially over, but we are none the wiser regarding the direction of the economy. Or are…

financial adviser swindon and the financial markets

Monday Market Update – 21st August

Economic Update | August 21, 2023

Bonds are back Last week was another difficult one for both equity and bond markets. As a result, the positive returns of July have mostly been erased so…

Mortgage Capacity Report - Empower Your Homeownership Journey - Swindon

What is a Mortgage Capacity Report?

Tips | August 16, 2023

Unveiling the Power of a Mortgage Capacity Report In the realm of mortgages, navigating the complexities can be akin to traversing uncharted waters. But fear not, for a…

Financial Markets Update - Unbiased Financial Advice in Swindon

Monday Market Update – 14th August

Advice | August 14, 2023

Summer markets lukewarm on good news On the face of it, last week contained many of the positive headlines market optimists had been waiting for, but the response…

Approved Mortgage Application in Swindon, Cheltenham, Bristol - Mather & Murray Financial

Top Tips to Improve Your Credit Rating and Secure Your Perfect Mortgage

Tips | August 8, 2023

Securing a mortgage for your dream home is a significant step, and your credit rating plays a crucial role in this process. A good credit rating not only…

Bank of England

The week in review – 17th July 2023

Economic Update | July 17, 2023

Core inflation slowdown equals upbeat equity markets We wrote at the end of last week that markets were still absorbing the prospect of another round of significant interest…

Samuel Mather-Holgate director at Mather and Murray Financial

BBC Radio interview

Tips | July 14, 2023

BBC Radio interviewed Samuel Mather-Holgate, director at Mather & Murray Financial, about interest rates, the Bank of England, inflation and the state of the UK economy.

Swindon clients of IFA firm Mather and Murray effected by inflation

The week in review – 10th July 2023

Economic Update | July 10, 2023

Markets sour on news of resilient economy The second quarter’s positive stock market returns were driven by a somewhat surprising improvement in investor sentiment. At the end of…

Experienced financial adviser providing expert advice to a family in Swindon

How to choose a financial adviser

Tips | July 5, 2023

When it comes to managing your finances and planning for the future, finding the right financial adviser is crucial. With so many options out there, it can be…

European Central Bank (ECB) building- investment advice Swindon

The week in review – 3rd July 2023

Economic Update | July 3, 2023

A glass half-full half year The second quarter ended with positive sentiment towards global risk assets (Although UK assets have fared less well), a surprising turnaround given the…

Federal Reserve building in Washington, D.C. - Financial Markets Review

The week in review – 19th June 2023

Economic Update | June 19, 2023

Market conundrums amid volatile growth Equity markets moved higher last week, despite central bank hawkishness. We had another 0.25% rate rise from the European Central Bank (ECB) and,…

Retire in Swindon: Enjoying a vibrant community, natural beauty, and cultural delights

FOCUS on Swindon: Why Swindon is a Great Place to Retire- Enjoying Your Golden Years in a Vibrant Community

Tips | June 16, 2023

Retirement is a time to relax, explore new opportunities, and fully enjoy life. If you’re considering where to spend your golden years, look no further than Swindon. This…

Illustration of a diverse portfolio of rental properties, representing the opportunities for portfolio landlords

Unlocking Opportunities: Mortgages, Insurance, and Tax Strategies for Portfolio Landlords

Advice, Tips | June 14, 2023

Introduction Welcome to our comprehensive guide for portfolio landlords, who face unique challenges in obtaining mortgages and navigating the ever-changing landscape of tax legislation. In this article, we…

Small business advice in Brighton - Tax planning

FOCUS on Brighton- Unlocking Your Home’s Value in Beautiful Brighton: A Guide to Equity Release

Tips | June 13, 2023

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on equity release in Brighton, where you can unlock the value of your home and embrace the vibrant lifestyle this coastal city has…

What we do

Trusted by clients across the UK

I went into this in a bit of a rush, having been putting it off to the last minute. But a phone conversation, followed by a video call and follow up visit, from. 'Mike', my advisor, helped put my mind at ease over the whole situation. He was patient, attentive and knowledgeable, listening to my fears, hopes and aspirations, and taking full notice of my needs. explaining everything in a way I understood. Eventually after a few more conversations, a plan was agreed, and put into action. He made the whole process simple for me, something I was very happy about, and thankful. So if I was asked if I would recommend this service, then it would be a definite 'Yes'.

Karl Lund

6 days ago

Really appreciate the excellent service from Helen. Very likeable, she always goes the extra mile to make sure we’re happy with her plans.

Response from the owner:Thanks Graham, we really appreciate your kind words. Helen will be delighted to hear this — we’re so pleased you felt well looked after and happy with the support and service provided.

Graham Ford

2 weeks ago

Just great communication and support with clear instructions and advise

Response from the owner:Thanks Debbie, we really appreciate your kind review. We’re so pleased you felt well supported and that the communication and guidance were clear throughout.

Debbie Smith

3 weeks ago

Mather & Murray Financial helped me with my first mortgage, thought out the process they went out of their way to ensure everything went smoothly. My mortgage broker Sherril Moore contacted me after work hours to help arrange my mortgage offer and would routinely update me when there was a change to interest rates to ensure I had the best mortgage offer I could. I would highly recommend using Mather & Murray Financial for arranging a mortgage. Update: I have since used Sherril at Mather & Murray to do a Further Advance to my mortgage, once again it was a painless and quick process. Sherril quickly responded to my initial request and after a few emails exchanges and a phone call the application was ready. I was over the moon with the service provided by Sherril and Mather & Murray.

Response from the owner:Thanks for your review Isaac. We're really pleased you are happy with the service and advice you received from Sherril.

Isaac Herbert

3 weeks ago

Wonderful service, I wouldn't be in my first home without it!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Tom, for your lovely review. We’re thrilled to hear Sarah was able to support you on the journey to your first home. It means a great deal to know her help made such a positive difference.

Tom Jarvis

4 weeks ago

A positive experience Rachel was extremely professional & Knowledgeable. She explained everything clearly & I never felt pressured throughout the whole process. She was always available to answer any questions & she took time to understand my circumstances & what I wanted to achieve. I have complete confidence in thire advice & would have no hesitation recommending them to anyone considering equity release. Elizabeth Firth

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Elizabeth, for your thoughtful review. We’re delighted to hear Rachel made the process clear, professional, and pressure-free, and that you felt listened to and supported throughout. Your confidence in the advice you received means a great deal, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.

Elizabeth Firth

4 weeks ago

I would definitely recommend this company. I was treated with respect and patience and kept informed at all times.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Pam, for your kind review. We’re really pleased to hear you felt respected, supported, and kept informed throughout. Your recommendation means a great deal to us.

Pam Lewis

4 weeks ago

Sarah, was a fantastic, knowledgable advisor throughout the process. I feel she went above and beyond to help my partner and i understand everything fully and kept consistent communication throughout! I will advise family and friends to use MMF and Sarah in particular going forward. 10/10 Service!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Josh, for your fantastic review. We’re really pleased to hear Sarah was able to support you so clearly throughout the process and keep you well informed along the way. It’s lovely to know you felt she went above and beyond, and we truly appreciate you recommending MMF and Sarah to your family and friends.

Josh Camper King

4 weeks ago

Rachel is nothing short of fantastic. Gave us so much time and was amazing at explaining things to us clearly as we had never had a mortgage or even applied before. From start to finish nothing was ever too much. Our experience as a whole with Mather and Murray has been amazing and we would highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Matthew, for your lovely review. We’re delighted to hear Rachel was able to make the mortgage process clear and supportive from start to finish, especially as it was your first time applying. It means a great deal to know you had such a positive experience with Mather & Murray, and we really appreciate your recommendation.

Matthew Lewis

1 month ago

Attentive and professional service. I felt looked after across the process. Thank you for the great assistance provided

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that you felt well taken care of throughout the process. Providing attentive and professional service is our top priority, and your feedback reinforces our commitment to excellence. We look forward to assisting you again in the future.

Rosi

1 month ago

Understood my position and gave considered professional advice which can be adapted to changing circumstances, very patient with my questions.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review. We’re delighted to hear you felt listened to and supported, and that our advice was helpful and adaptable to your circumstances. We really appreciate your feedback and were happy to answer your questions along the way.

Richard Saunders

2 months ago

I cannot speak highly enough of Sherril Moore who expertly, with great kindness and humour, guided us through a very long and what became complicated financial matter. Thank you so very much Sherril, I literally don’t know where we would be without you and latterly Anne Hevingham.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Derek, for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear that Sherril’s expertise, kindness and humour made such a difference throughout a long and challenging process, and we’re pleased Anne was able to support you as well. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal to us.

Derek Loring

2 months ago

Sean was really helpful and worked really hard to find me a remortgage that worked for me always on the end of the line to answer any questions i had i would recommend mather and Murray

Response from the owner:Thank you, Michael, for your kind review. We’re delighted Sean was able to help you find a remortgage that suited your needs and was there to answer your questions throughout. We really appreciate your recommendation and your support.

Michael Bennett

2 months ago

Lovely people, both Kate and Sue were very reassuring on a subject I find stressful. Kate produced a plan for my pension that fulfilled all I required. During the transfer process, Kate constantly sent updates and we had further conversations so she could provide an outstanding service for me. Everything went smoothly, and I am truly grateful to her knowledge and professionalism during a difficult time.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jonathan, for your thoughtful review. We’re so pleased Kate and Sue were able to put you at ease and support you throughout the process. It’s wonderful to hear that Kate’s professionalism, regular updates and guidance made everything run smoothly. We really appreciate your kind words and your trust in Mather & Murray Financial.

jonathan crowe

2 months ago

Mike Rice has been professional and extremely personable throughout the whole process of choosing the most appropriate pension and investment options to suit my attitude to risk. His support and guidance throughout the whole process has been faultless. I look forward to continuing with his support and cannot recommend him highly enough.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Mike. We’re delighted to hear that Mike Rice’s professional, personable support and guidance made the process of considering your pension and investment options so positive. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal, and we look forward to continuing to support you.

Mike Bretnall

2 months ago

Outstanding service. I highly recommend Sean Davis for anyone in need of a knowledgeable and reliable mortgage adviser. he took all the stress away from remortgaging our house and worked brilliantly with our solicitors to get it done.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased to hear Sean was able to take the stress out of your remortgage and work smoothly with your solicitors to get everything completed. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

Agostinho Picardo

2 months ago

Worked very closely with these guys over the last 5 years, recommended to me by the NHS. I finally feel like our finances are in control and we have a long term plan. We’ve had some excellent advice from two very knowledgeable advisors. Very non biased and really good at explaining in layman’s terms - highly recommend

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jane, for such a thoughtful review and for your trust over the past five years — it really means a lot to us. We’re delighted to hear you now feel in control of your finances and have a clear long-term plan in place. It’s great to know the advice has been clear, balanced and easy to understand — that’s exactly what we aim to deliver for every client. Our support continues from here. We’ll be in touch for your regular reviews to keep everything on track, and of course you can contact us any time if your circumstances or goals change. On behalf of the whole team at Mather & Murray Financial, thank you for your recommendation — we really appreciate it.

Jane Brodie

2 months ago

Steven Archer at Mather and Murray has been an absolute godsend. I have four pensions and other investments that I hadn’t a clue what to do with or how to get a regular tax efficient income from. Steve has managed to explain everything clearly and concisely and has come up with a plan tailored to my situation. I now feel much more secure and confident in the future. He is knowledgeable, professional, and personable. If you need to sort out your retirement finances, I highly recommend Steve at Mather and Murray.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Mark. We’re delighted to hear that Steve was able to explain everything clearly and help you feel more confident about your retirement planning. It’s wonderful to know his knowledgeable, professional and personable approach made such a positive difference. We really appreciate your recommendation.

Mark Allen

3 months ago

I found your company via the find an IFA website. The whole process from booking an initial appointment to discussing with Mike was excellent throughout and he explained all the options and my attitude to risk and helped me choose an appropriate option for my pension now I have reached the age of 55. Mike has been in touch regularly throughout the process and will continue to provide support including advice on my new work pension and where to invest. I can't recommend Mike highly enough. Many Thanks. :-)

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your lovely review, Andrew. We’re really pleased to hear that the whole process felt clear and supportive from start to finish, and that Mike was able to explain your options in a way that helped you feel confident about your pension planning. It’s great to know his regular communication and ongoing support have been appreciated. Thank you again for your kind recommendation.

Andrew Bridges

3 months ago

Sean was a breath of fresh air. Very knowledgeable, friendly with a swift response turnaround with correspondence. Highly recommend this company.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind review, Lisa. We’re delighted to hear that Sean’s knowledgeable, friendly approach and prompt communication made such a positive impression. We really appreciate your recommendation.

Lisa Connor

3 months ago

Sherrill was so helpful and pleasant, polite, friendly and human! Everything was explained in plain terms and not rushed. The whole process was seamless and Sherrill supported me throughout. I am extremely pleased that I chose Mather and Murray to help me and would not hesitate to reccomend them and Sherrill to others who needed pensions advice.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased to hear that Sherrill made the process feel clear, supportive and unrushed. Explaining things in plain terms and making people feel comfortable is exactly what we aim for, especially when it comes to pensions advice. We really appreciate your kind words and your recommendation of Sherrill and Mather & Murray Financial.

Maryann Hindmarch

3 months ago

Sherril along with Mather & Murray have provided me with excellent advice regarding my personal pension and retirement planning. I found Sherril very professional & I appreciated her friendly approach in managing my finances. I would highly recommend Sherril to anyone looking for a reliable retirement advice.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Stephen, for your kind review and recommendation. We’re delighted to hear that Sherril’s professional yet friendly approach made such a positive difference. It’s great to know you felt well supported with your pension and retirement planning, and we really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with Mather & Murray Financial.

Stephen Driscoll

3 months ago

Rachel Hutton was amazing, she was very knowledgable, always happy to advise and easy to contact whenever we had questions. We were very lucky to find her and would strongly recommend her particularly as a mortgage advisor which was what she helped us with, thankyou Rachel!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Chris, for your wonderful review. We’re so pleased to hear Rachel was knowledgeable, approachable and easy to contact throughout. It’s great to know her mortgage advice made such a positive difference, and your recommendation means a lot to us.

Chris Balshaw

3 months ago

Excellent service from Sean and the team. Very professional, friendly and helpful. Sean ensured the transactions went through smoothly to its conclusion. We would highly recommend them to others and will use them again if the need arises. Thank you to all

Response from the owner:Thank you, Barrie, for such a lovely review. We’re delighted to hear Sean and the team provided a professional, friendly and helpful service, and that everything went smoothly through to completion. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we’d be very happy to help again whenever needed.

Barrie Hamilton

3 months ago

I am very happy with the service of Mather and Murray for obtaining my pension and specially with the help from Kate Ricks. Very professional, done everything on time and cooperated.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Blair, for your kind review. We’re so pleased to hear you were happy with the service and that Kate’s support made the process a positive one. We really appreciate your feedback and are glad everything was handled professionally and on time.

Blair Marriott

3 months ago

Join thousands of satisfied clients across the UK

MortgagesPensionsProtectionWills & TrustsEquity ReleaseEmployer ServicesWealthInvestmentOptions at Retirement Inheritance TaxMortgagesPensionsProtectionWills & TrustsEquity ReleaseEmployer ServicesWealthInvestmentOptions at Retirement Inheritance Tax

Latest News

Market updates & expert insight

VIEW ALL ARTICLES

Inheritance Tax on Pensions from 2027: Could Your Family Face a 67% Tax Trap?
September 3, 2026 | Advice, General info, Tips
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For years, pensions have occupied a particularly valuable place in estate planning. Unlike most other investments, unused pension funds have generally been able to sit outside an individual’s estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. This has meant that many people have deliberately spent ISAs, savings and other assets first while leaving their pension…
READ ARTICLE
Should I Consolidate My Pensions? Pros, Cons and What to Check Before Combining The
September 1, 2026 | Advice, General info, Tips
By Samuel Mather-Holgate If you have changed jobs several times during your career, there is a good chance you have built up more than one pension. One pension might be with a former employer. Another may be an old personal pension. You may also have a current workplace pension receiving contributions today. That often leads…
READ ARTICLE
St James’s Place vs Independent Financial Adviser | Mather & Murray
August 20, 2026 | Advice, General info
Written by Sam Mather-Holgate, Independent Financial Adviser Key Takeaways St James’s Place advisers are not independent financial advisers; they advise within the St James’s Place proposition. An independent financial adviser can consider suitable products and providers from across the wider market. Restricted advice is not automatically poor advice, and independent advice is not automatically better….
READ ARTICLE

Book your free consultation today to get started.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate your monthly repayments and see how much you could borrow based on your income.

Try the calculator

Stamp Duty Calculator

Estimate how much stamp duty you will need to pay on your next property purchase.

Calculate Stamp Duty