Blog
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is floating the idea of new rules designed to improve investor experiences in open-ended UK Commercial Property Funds. Most are currently suspended due to uncertainties on the value of the properties because of the COVID pandemic. In the past, they have placed restrictions on withdrawals due to a lack of
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2020 has put our ability to survive financial shocks to the test. However, for many, the financial implications of the pandemic have not been as bad as they could have been. This is thanks to the government’s support schemes. Other than being unable to work, the biggest causes of financial emergencies are cars, properties, family
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The discounted gift scheme is an arrangement which allows you to make a gift for inheritance tax (IHT) purposes while retaining the right to a fixed income (in the form of regular withdrawals) for your lifetime (or until the trust fund is exhausted). Firstly, from the amount of capital which is to be gifted you
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Did you know that people are twice as likely to take out insurance for a pet than they are themselves? This is a choice which could have server financial consequences. In a survey by Cirencester Direct, over a third of respondents said they have, or would take out, pet insurance. However, just 17% would take steps
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Investing for the financial future of children and grandchildren are key areas of concern for parents and grandparents. This can be for various reasons including funding education or helping them to buy a house in the future. There are special rules to consider when investments are made for the benefit of, or on behalf of,
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DIY investors now have unprecedented access to investment information and markets. This has levelled the informational playing field between them and professional investors. Even though you may have the tools to do manage your own portfolio, should you go down the DIY route? What you need to be a successful investor Time and interest You
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Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) have always been viewed as highly useful when looking at someone’s tax planning. Over time VCTs have become more mainstream and for certain clients are just another way to invest tax efficiently. VCTs are publicly-listed companies which invest money in small UK businesses who are not quoted on the main stock
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Every business owner is likely to have considered insurance for accidents, company vehicles and their premises. However, many do not feel business protection is relevant to them. Small business owners are often too busy to focus on the wider ‘what if’ risks their business could face. Protecting business profits Can a business die of a
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It is no secret the Government debt has reached epic levels. With interest rates being as low as they are, it is accepted that servicing the debt may not be as challenging as the size of the debt would (superficially at least) indicate. Low to negative yield Government Bonds (Gilts) are being bought by the
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This month has some welcome positive news. There was an increased likelihood of economic growth picking up in China as early as the second quarter. While economies are recovering in many parts of the world, they are a long way from where they would have been in the absence of Covid-19. Predictions are that global
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