Ten Reasons to Boost Your Pension Before April 2025

Retired couple enjoying a holiday by the pool, representing the benefits of boosting your pension for a comfortable retirement.

By Samuel Mather-Holgate As the tax year draws to a close, there’s no better time to review your pension contributions and ensure you’re taking full advantage of the tax breaks and allowances available. Even with upcoming changes to inheritance tax (IHT) on pension death benefits, pensions remain one of the most tax-efficient ways to save…

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The Hidden Risks of Co-Habiting: What You Need to Know About Property Ownership

A co-habiting couple holding paper hearts, representing the importance of property rights and legal protection for unmarried partners

By Samuel Mather-Holgate For many couples, co-habiting feels like a natural step in their relationship. You share a home, expenses, and perhaps even dreams for the future. However, when it comes to property ownership, co-habiting couples face a significantly different legal landscape compared to those who are married or in a civil partnership. Without proper…

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A Guide to UK Pension Advice for Overseas Residents

A family dining on a beach at sunset, representing the financial security and lifestyle UK expats can achieve through effective pension planning

By Samuel Mather-Holgate Living overseas doesn’t mean leaving your UK pension behind. You could be in Malta, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Canada, France Denmark, or anywhere else for that matter, understanding your pension options is essential to secure your retirement. From transfers to benefits, annuities to drawdown, and even inheritance planning, navigating the complexities of UK…

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Start the New Year Right: Review Your Finances and Set Goals for 2025

A 2025 target board symbolising financial goal-setting and planning, with a focus on Swindon financial advice for the new year

By Samuel Mather-Holgate The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to hit refresh on your financial plans. Whether you’re aiming to save more, reduce debt, set long-term investment goals, or planning to retire, reviewing your finances at the start of the year gives you a solid foundation to work from. This guide…

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How the 2024 U.S. Election Results Could Impact Your Investments

AI-generated image of Donald Trump and Elon Musk, symbolizing the intersection of political and economic influence on investments in the 2024 U.S. election

By Samuel Mather-Holgate It’s already been a week since the US general election and with Donald Trump elected to a second term as President of the United States, it’s natural to wonder how this change in leadership might affect financial markets and, in turn, your investments. While political developments can sometimes spark uncertainty, successful investing…

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Key Highlights from the 2024 Autumn Budget

Chancellor Rachel Reeves presenting the 2024 Autumn Budget with key financial changes impacting income tax, pensions, and inheritance tax

The Chancellor’s first Autumn Budget under the new Labour government introduced significant updates that could impact your financial plans. From adjustments to stamp duty land tax and pensions to changes in inheritance tax and capital gains, these new measures reflect the government’s goals to stabilise finances while funding essential public services. You can read the…

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Understanding Stroke: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Financial Protection

World Stroke Day awareness graphic highlighting October 29th as a day to raise awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, and support

By Samuel Mather-Holgate Every year, millions of people around the world experience a stroke. I know, personally, several people who have (and are) going through the ordeal who each have individual symptoms varying in severity. World Stroke Day, observed on October 29th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, treatment, and…

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Lending Options for Older Clients: Finding the Right Solution for Your Financial Needs

Older couple practising yoga, representing financial flexibility and a healthy lifestyle in retirement

By Samuel Mather-Holgate As people are living longer and healthier lives, many older clients are exploring financial options that allow them to maintain their lifestyle, supplement their pension income, or help family members. For older homeowners, there are a variety of lending solutions available, including traditional mortgages, retirement interest-only mortgages (RIO), and lifetime mortgages. Each…

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How Money Affects Mental Health: Financial Wellbeing on World Mental Health Day

Cartoon of a woman looking stressed and anxious about money, symbolising financial stress and its impact on mental health

As we recognise World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation. One of the most significant and often overlooked factors affecting our mental wellbeing is money. Whether it’s the stress of debt, the anxiety of managing expenses, or the emotional toll of financial instability, the relationship between money…

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UK Autumn Statement: How Labour Might Tackle the Fiscal Deficit Without Raising Income Tax, National Insurance, or VAT

Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, walking down Downing Street, preparing for the Autumn StatementRachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, walking down Downing Street, preparing for the Autumn Statement

Introduction With Labour’s recent election win, attention is now focused on their upcoming Autumn Statement, which will reveal their plans to address the so-called “fiscal black hole.” Labour has already ruled out increasing income tax rates, National Insurance, or VAT, narrowing the options available to raise the necessary revenue. This blog explores the potential tax…

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