It was not only UK share values that rose during 2016. Note: the Xafinity Transfer Value Index tracks the transfer value that would be provided by an example defined benefit pension scheme to a member aged 64 who is currently … Continue reading →

December saw a 0.25% increase in the main US interest short term rate. On 15 December, the US Federal Reserve (Fed) raised its key short term interest rate by 0.25%, to a range between 0.5% and 0.75%. It had made … Continue reading →

The Treasury has announced the date of the next Budget. It may feel like Mr Hammond’s Autumn Statement was only a few days ago, but shortly before Christmas the Treasury announced that the Spring Budget will be on Wednesday 8 … Continue reading →

At first sight, the results from the world’s main share markets in 2016 appear mixed, but that’s before currency effects are considered. Index 2016 Change FTSE 100 +14.4 FTSE All-Share +12.5% Dow Jones Industrial +13.4% Standard & Poor’s 500 +9.5% … Continue reading →