In the light of recent market volatility, it’s perhaps natural to be looking for ways to smooth out your portfolio’s returns going forward. In a fluctuating market, investing regularly – a strategy known as ‘pound-cost averaging’ – can help smooth out the effect of market changes on the value of your investment and is one way to achieve some peace of mind.
The closer you get to taking your pension, the greater the need to preserve your savings and ensure they will last all through your retirement. In addition, you’ll need to consider whether you need to make changes to your investments as you approach retirement.
A generation ago, retirement meant stopping work completely and winding down. By contrast, the present generation – the baby-boomers – are much more likely to see it as a fresh start with a chance to explore new opportunities or carry on working on their terms.
Assured
A person or persons who are insured under the terms of a protection policy.
Every business has key people who are driving it forward. Many businesses recognise the need to insure their company property, equipment and fixed assets. However, they continually overlook their most important assets, the people who drive the business – a key employee, director or shareholder.
Following the changes introduced by the Finance Act 2006 trusts still remain an important estate planning mechanism. A trust arrangement can ensure that your wealth is properly managed and distributed after your death, so that it provides for the people who depend on you and is enjoyed by your heirs in the way you intend.
In order to protect family and loved ones, it is essential to have provisions in place after you’re gone. The easiest way to prevent unnecessary tax payments such as Inheritance Tax (IHT) is to organise your tax affairs by obtaining professional advice and having a valid will in place to ensure that your legacy does not involve just leaving a large IHT bill for your loved ones.
A will is an essential part of your financial planning. Not only does it set out your wishes, but, die without a will, and your estate will generally be divided according to the rules of intestacy, which may not reflect your wishes.
With so many different protection options available, making the right decision to protect your personal and financial situation can seem overwhelming. There is a plethora of protection solutions which could help ensure that a lump sum, or a replacement income, becomes available to you in the event that it is needed.
Whilst for many of us an increase in life expectancy may seem like good news, it has to be recognised that there are financial implications for those who live longer.