The Canadian educator Laurence J. Peter once quipped, “An economist is an expert who will know tomorrow why the things he predicted yesterday didn’t happen today.” While Peter’s pithy indictment may perhaps be a bit unfair to an entire class of economists, historical study and contemporary research suggest that following…
When you pass on, it should hopefully be a time for your family to come together, mourn, and commemorate your life. However, there has unfortunately been a recent increase in the number of inheritance disputes, and cases are at a record high. From rising property prices to a surge in…
If you receive a bonus or a windfall, the temptation can be to spend a substantial chunk of it right away on something you’ve been eyeing for a while. However, unless the payment is truly life-changing, it can be wise to resist the urge to spend it on expensive non-essentials.…
With one eye on a forthcoming general election, the chancellor has announced a Budget aimed at generating long-term growth, with “more investment, more jobs, better public services and lower taxes”. While the headlines will inevitably focus on Jeremy Hunt’s cut in National Insurance contributions (NICs), many less headline-grabbing messages will…
The 2024/25 tax year is just a month away, and chancellor Jeremy Hunt has delivered his 2024 Spring Budget, outlining the government’s plans for the next fiscal year and beyond. With a general election looming – prime minister Rishi Sunak has said he will call it before the end of…
Loneliness is something that many people will experience during their lifetime. Recognising the signs and knowing how to offer support could make all the difference to someone who is struggling. Feeling lonely can affect all generations, and it might be more common than you think. A survey suggests that almost…
A new study from Aviva has found that almost half of motorists had botched a car repair, leading to an average cost of £803. 97% of people now attempt to fix their own car, compared with only 75% of people 10 years ago. While this is most likely an attempt…
Did you know the UK generates more than 220 million tonnes of waste a year? Of that waste, around 44% is recycled, but a large proportion goes to landfill. Read on to discover how embracing the circular economy could reduce waste. Not only is a huge amount of waste going…
According to a study from Vanquis, people in the UK make an average of seven large impulse purchases each year. This adds up to at least £1,050 a year in spending that people later come to regret. Vanquis tasked mathematician and University Challenge star Bobby Seagull with finding ways to…
The generous tax relief available on pensions makes them a great choice for retirement saving. You usually benefit from an immediate 20% boost to your savings when you make a contribution – meaning a £1,000 contribution only “costs” you £800. If you’re a higher- or additional-rate taxpayer then further relief…
Nigel Farage made headlines recently after a public dispute with high net worth banking and investment establishment, Coutts, when they closed his account. Their official reason was that he had fallen below the £1 million minimum investment and borrowing threshold after paying off a mortgage. Farage, on the other hand,…
The summer holidays are here and you may be wondering how you are going to keep your children or grandchildren entertained until they go back to school. You will likely be spending a lot more time with them taking trips together, going on family days out, or just relaxing at…
Typically, a will is an official document drawn up by a legal professional. It clearly outlines how you want your estate to be distributed after you are gone, and it should avoid any confusion or disputes. However, a recent court case involving the late Aretha Franklin demonstrated that this is…
After more than a decade of low interest rates, many people will be pleased to see the amount their savings are earning is starting to rise. Yet, it could mean you need to pay a tax charge. Interest from saving accounts may be liable for Income Tax. When the average…
Inheritance Tax (IHT) is often controversial – you may have heard of it referred to as “the most hated tax in Britain”. Yet, despite the coverage it receives, it’s often misunderstood. Common myths about IHT could mean you’re needlessly worrying about a potential bill or failing to take steps that…
Cash savings are a simple way to hold your wealth and you can easily access the funds whenever you need them. You may also generate interest over time, and you typically don’t assume the same level of risk that you do when investing. As such, you may think that cash…
Every summer, the focus of world sport turns to a 42-acre site in the south-west of London. Since 1877, the All England Club has hosted the Wimbledon championships – one of the most prestigious tournaments in the tennis calendar. The only Grand Slam event to take place on grass courts,…
As your parents and grandparents get older, it’s likely that they will need more support from you and other members of your family. But, when it comes to their finances, a new study has found that middle-aged people are “overwhelmed” and underprepared for having to help their elderly relatives deal…
An “oracle” is traditionally somebody who offers advice or delivers a prophecy, often thought to come from divine origins. Stories of legendary oracles like Pythia, who delivered prophecies from the Greek god Apollo, tell of people travelling from far and wide to hear her wisdom. It is perhaps quite fitting…