It is impossible to consider retirement, and our experience of it, without also considering how we’ll pay for it. But almost 30% of people over the age of 55 are unsure if they will be able to retire on their current savings, according to new research[1].
It is impossible for investors to predict the future. Short-term losses can be unsettling, but holding steady through the ups and downs is the best way to reach your long-term investment goals. A key to successful investing is to remain focused on your long-term objectives and not let short-term trends distract you. Holding onto your investments when times get tough is a proven strategy for staying on track.
If you have significant assets, you may be wondering whether Inheritance Tax (IHT) affects you. Worryingly, some families appear to be shying away from difficult conversations, as almost half (47%) of UK adults say they have never discussed inheritance matters, according to new research[1].
Choosing an independent school is a serious investment
Parents or grandparents wishing to give their children or grandchildren the benefit of an independent education face startling costs. This is followed after school by the costs of a university education, which are also considerable. However, with careful planning, it may be possible to avoid a huge outstanding student loan or tax burden.
Some people don’t want a pension company deciding how their pension savings are invested – they want to control where their money goes and how it grows. For people wanting to have autonomy to make their own investment decisions with their retirement savings, a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) may be an alternative solution.
Inflation set to erode Britain’s £60 billion cash savings
Millions of Britons could see their savings shrink, as they don’t know how to shield them from the threat of rising inflation. Currently, UK savers are hoarding over £60 billion[1] in cash for long-term savings and investments, which stands to be eroded by £1.5 billion this year as a result of higher inflation.
In the previous five years, buy-to-let has seen the impact of huge property price increases. THERE HAVE BEEN legislative changes, new tax treatment and deep economic uncertainty across the country.
The Bank of Mum and Dad is potentially the UK’s most lenient lender. its relaxed approach means it ends up writing off huge numbers of loans each year, according to new research[1].
You’ve worked hard for your money – now investing can get your money working harder for you
Before investing, you need to decide how much risk you are willing to take and consider your ability to deal with any losses. Some investors are happy to take higher risk if there is a chance for higher returns over the longer term, while others don’t want to accept any risk. Others may sit somewhere in the middle. The value of investments can go down as well as up, and so there is always a risk that you may not get back the amount you put in.
Convenience rather than cash is the biggest motivation
There are plenty of reasons why moving into a smaller home makes sense, and more than 3.9 million over-55 ‘empty-nesters’ approaching retirement are planning to downsize to a cheaper property later in life[1] – but it is convenience rather than the cash that is their biggest motivation.
