With the end of the current tax year close upon us, HM Revenue & Customs are once again rubbing their hands with glee. Especially given the pandemic has meant many people haven’t spent as much as they might have done...
2022 on an economic knife-edge – Birmingham Post article 13.01.2022
It could be a tricky few months ahead for both the economy and living standards. So, how will 2022 likely turn out? They say that forecasting, like gambling, is a mug’s game … and there is some truth in that....
Getting out the crystal ball for a new year – Birmingham Post article 06.01.2022
Dividends surged in 2021 but that may not continue, according to Royal London Asset Management. However, it believes takeover bids will remain a prominent feature of the Stock Exchange. Senior fund manager Richard Marwood commented: “After a miserable 2020 where...
Triple lock suspension highlights need for old age saving – Birmingham Post article 30.12.2021
The Government’s suspension of the pensions triple lock, breaking a manifesto pledge in the process, has caused controversy. And it’s all down to Covid. In normal times, the triple lock ensures that the state pension will rise in line with...
Will we see the rise of the vegan investor? – Birmingham Post article 23.12.2021
There are around 1.5 million people in the UK who are currently vegan, according to analysis conducted by finder.com. Almost 500,000 Brits gave up meat in 2020. Indeed, you only have to look at the way the supermarkets are fast...
Tax plan your gifting generosity – Birmingham Post Article 16.12.2021
If you’re estate is worth more than £325,000 (£650,000 for married couples and civil partners), some of it could go to HM Revenue & Customs in inheritance tax when you pass on. Less so where the additional Residence Nil Rate...
Money worries still a factor despite Government care cap – Birmingham Post Article 09.12.2021
Fearful about how to support yourself in old age especially if you have to go into care? It’s worth thinking about it early doors and, if possible, come up with a plan. Though this will have to take in lots...
China property bubble threat to world economy – Birmingham Post article 18.11.2021
I heard a fund manager say recently that when it comes to financial markets the only risks worth worrying over are the ones we don’t yet know about! Therefore, it is a plus that at least we are well aware...
Government makes high stakes bet on the economy – Birmingham Post article 11.11.2021
The late Vivian Nicholson became famous when she told the media that she would “spend, spend, spend” after her husband won £152,319 (equivalent to more than £3 million today) on the football pools in 1961. And she did exactly that until the fortune dwindled...
Inflation makes an unwelcome return – Birmingham Post article 04.11.2021
Inflation, the bogey of central banks, savers and shoppers alike, is rearing its ugly head once more. Consumer Prices Index inflation, though down slightly in September to 3.1 per cent from 3.2 per cent in August, is predicted heading for...