House prices drop as interest rates increase
House prices have dropped by the biggest yearly decline for 14 years, according to Nationwide.
The data for July was shortly before the Bank of England increased interest rates yet again, taking it from 5% to 5.25%, spelling more uncertainty for mortgage holders.
The BBC has reported the latest from Nationwide, which said affordability was becoming...
Rising rates, what we look for and dubious practices
So, credit agencies have downgraded the US for its financial stability and the market there has taken a turn downwards. What does it mean? Of course we shall be assessing that as we do our utmost to manage clients’ investments wisely and their financial affairs. However, it’s a blow for Mr Biden’s hopes for...
How much do you need for a ‘comfortable’ retirement?
UK residents need at least an extra £26,000 in addition to their State Pension to live a ‘comfortable’ lifestyle during their retirement, according to recent data.
The research was carried out by Standard Life, which used the MoneyHelper annuity tool from www.moneyhelper.org.uk to work out how much people would need in their pension pot to...
Replacing your State Pension could cost a fortune
Recent news the State Pension booster scheme has been extended until 2025 is very welcome, but did you know it could cost you a small fortune to replace the full State Pension if you’re not eligible for it?
Data from sharingpensions.co.uk published in June has shown it would cost just over £205,430 of pensions savings...
Kinder markets and when to move?
Savings accounts are costing you money, says new report
A new report has revealed the shocking low level of investment in shares by the general public, with most people preferring to savings in cash – which hurts their bank balances and the nation as a whole.
Did you know there is £1.8 TRILLION sat in cash savings accounts around the country? That sounds good,...
Odd markets, bubbles and opportunity
The markets have been continuing their sideways negativity, with some situations suffering ‘death by a thousand cuts’, as sentiment remains disillusioned. There are a few brighter spots this week, which is good but it’s easier for the marketmakers to mark things in red to try to drum-up trade than give optimism for the near...
Inflation and cautious optimism
So Sterling has hit its highest level against the Dollar since April last year and the Euro since August. Whilst it reduces the value of investors’ overseas’ assets, strength is positive and I can say ‘expected’ though whether it is on confidence in the UK and our economic prowess (or others’ regression) is hard...
State Pension booster scheme extended – but not forever
Pensions are back in the headlines again with the news the deadline to ‘boost’ your State Pension by as much as £55,000 has been extended.
The booster plan from HMRC gives people the opportunity to buy the equivalent of up to 10 extra years’ of state pension if they have gaps in their National Insurance...