Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first Budget was a significant one in all senses. “…this Budget delivers a large, sustained increase in spending, taxation, and borrowing.” So said the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) in the first paragraph of its overview of … Continue reading →

The pension challenges facing western governments are also confronting the world’s second most populous country. At what age should the state start to pay a pension? The question is a challenge to all governments, whether democratic or otherwise. There are … Continue reading →

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS The main rate of class 1 employer national insurance contributions (NICs) will be increased from 13.8% to 15.0% with effect from 6 April 2025 and the secondary threshold at which employer NICs are payable will be reduced from … Continue reading →

We now have a clear understanding of how much the main State Pension will increase next April. That the State Pension triple lock was not going to change was a consistent commitment in the election manifestos of all major political … Continue reading →

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) publishes a review of the cash savings market following evidence of some dubious tactics at work. While the use of paper cash is declining as a means of payment, the need to retain a cash reserve … Continue reading →