Survey pinpoints several barriers threatening pension funds’ progress
Sixty-five per cent of pension funds recently surveyed by the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) have established a commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions. Progress appears on the horizon for the third of funds without a current commitment, as one in five (22%) anticipate adopting a net zero target within the next five years.
Whether that’s adventure, relaxation or simply a slower pace of life
Many of us eagerly await the day we can step away from work for good, envisioning a time filled with freedom and the opportunity to focus on what truly brings us joy. The dream of retirement offers a deeply personal vision – whether that’s adventure, relaxation or simply a slower pace of life. However, while it’s natural to focus on the excitement of retirement, the reality is that your ability to achieve these aspirations relies heavily on financial preparation.
Are you considering delaying your next investment until the market drops? It’s a common notion, particularly among new or even experienced investors. The strategy of ‘timing the market’ – buying stocks when their value is low and selling them when high – may sound like the perfect plan. But even the most successful fund managers in history have struggled to do this consistently. Predicting the market is notoriously difficult; even experts can’t always call it right.
The road to robust financial health, even when you’re juggling the demands of family life
Motherhood comes with countless responsibilities, so it’s no surprise that long-term financial planning often gets pushed to the bottom of the list. Managing your finances is essential for everyone, but as a mum, there are unique challenges that might mean your money needs extra attention.
Maintaining a strong commitment to your long-term goals
Early retirement is an ambitious but attainable goal, provided you adopt the right and disciplined approach to your finances. At the heart of this lies establishing a tax-efficient savings plan designed to maximise both your contributions and the growth of your investments over time.
Could you lose out on tax-free allowances for other income?
Many pensioners will enjoy another uplift in their State Pension income next financial year. From 6 April 2025, the State Pension is due to rise by 4.1%, on the back of an 8.5% increase in April 2023. This growth adheres to the government’s ‘triple lock’ policy, which ensures that the State Pension increases annually by the highest of wage growth, inflation or 2.5%. However, this rise also brings potential complications for some retirees.
Striking the balance between living comfortably and preparing for unpredictable eventualities
Entering your 70s is a significant milestone, a time to fully enjoy the fruits of your hard work and careful financial planning. However, even if you’ve retired or reduced your workload, financial planning remains just as essential as it was in earlier stages of life. Striking the balance between living comfortably and preparing for unpredictable eventualities, such as health issues or care needs, is key to your long-term security.
The financial crisis of over a decade ago shaped global markets. They faltered and stumbled but then bounced back with surprising speed. This resilience was bolstered by factors such as artificially low interest rates and buoyant market sentiment. However, the world today faces an altogether different type of economic challenge.
The topic goes beyond the basics—there are numerous layers to uncover
For many, the intricacies of the State Pension remain very confusing, particularly regarding what happens after someone passes away. While many know that the State Pension does not automatically cease when someone dies, understanding your rights or the rights of a widowed spouse or civil partner can be a complex process.
Alleviate financial stress and ensure you start of married life financially secure
Weddings celebrate love, commitment and the union of two lives, shared with family and friends. However, making this day memorable often comes at a significant financial cost. According to data, the average wedding in the UK costs £20,700 [1].
