News

As the Autumn Budget draws near, UK government bonds, commonly known as gilts, are once again under the spotlight. The term gilts may sound confusing, but it has historical significance: Originally, government bonds were printed on gilt-edged paper. More importantly, … Continue reading →

Are you thinking about withdrawing a lump sum from your pension ahead of the Autumn Budget? One of the key tax advantages of pension savings is the ability to take up to 25% of your pension pot as a tax-free … Continue reading →

More than two decades after its original launch, the government has announced the return of the Pensions Commission. Back in 2002, the Labour government led by Tony Blair appointed Lord Turner to head a commission tasked with reviewing the future … Continue reading →

August’s 0.25% interest rate cut wasn’t a straightforward decision, and it could shape how future rate changes unfold Source: Bank of England Since gaining independence in 1997, the Bank of England has set interest rates through its Monetary Policy Committee … Continue reading →

The government has now responded to the many submissions made in reaction to last October’s consultation on extending inheritance tax (IHT) to pension death benefits. In the Autumn 2024 Budget, the Chancellor announced two major IHT reforms. The first, set … Continue reading →

Just before Parliament broke for its summer recess, the government quietly announced a fresh review of the State Pension Age (SPA),a move that could have long-term implications for family-run businesses. Pension policy has long been a politically sensitive issue. The … Continue reading →

With potential changes to Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) on the horizon in the Autumn Budget, the Lifetime ISA (LISA) is under critical review, raising questions about its viability for long-term financial planning.   Launched in April 2017 in George Osbourne’s final … Continue reading →

As summer gives way to the final fiscal quarter, attention turns once again to the Autumn Budget and with it, renewed speculation around tax reform. For business owners managing intergenerational wealth and individuals approaching retirement with substantial pension arrangements, this … Continue reading →

State pension policy is back under scrutiny and the future of the triple lock mechanism is looking increasingly uncertain.   Introduced in 2011/12, the triple lock guarantees that annual State pension increases match the highest of:  CPI inflation (September measure)  Average … Continue reading →

New data from HMRC reveals a resurgence in company car ownership driven not by nostalgia, but by strategic tax incentives and the rise of electric vehicles. For business owners and senior executives exploring tax-efficient remuneration, this trend offers both opportunity … Continue reading →

In a notable shift, the UK government is reframing its stance on investment risk, moving away from caution and towards opportunity. At the heart of this change is Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who recently used her Mansion House speech to call … Continue reading →

A new pensions bill has been introduced, which could affect your existing pensions. Pension legislation is almost a staple of parliamentary business. If it is not the Chancellor tweaking the tax rules, it is the Department for Work and Pensions … Continue reading →

In late May, HMRC published a report – based on data collected in summer 2023 and dated January 2024 – that had been held back for months. Why the delay? HMRC are not renowned for prompt action, except for issuing … Continue reading →