News

Ten New Year’s Resolutions for your Financial Planning

Around 50% of us make New Year’s Resolutions and ‘sort the finances out’ must be one of the most popular: but that’s a little vague – it’s more a wish than a firm commitment to take action. Looking at the recent appointments we’ve had with new and existing clients, here are the topics that we’ve discussed most often. If you’re determined to sort out your finances, these may give you some food for thought.

Government Confirms Auto-Enrolment Delay for Small Firms

With George Osborne’s Autumn Statement and the strike by public sector workers happening almost simultaneously, an announcement by Pensions Minister Steve Webb about auto-enrolment in pension schemes was never going to grab the headlines. However, the announcement does have significant implications for Britain’s small businesses.

“It’s time to sort out the mortgage…”

Along with decisions to lose weight and stop smoking, ‘sort out the mortgage’ must be one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions. But sorting out what is most people’s biggest monthly expense makes good sense at any time of year. There are good financial planning reasons for reviewing your mortgage on a regular basis – but if you are thinking of moving to a different lender, you also need to be aware of the potential costs involved.

December Market Commentary

When you realise that the ‘Italian 10’ trending on Twitter refers not to Antonio Cassano's goal against Northern Ireland but to the yield on the Italian 10 Year Bond, then you know the European debt crisis – and the consequent turmoil on the world stock markets – remains alive and well.