Should You Buy an Annuity? Pros and Cons for Retirement Planning
In recent years, annuities have been making a comeback. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), annuity sales rose sharply in 2023, reflecting renewed demand from retirees seeking certainty in an uncertain economic climate. But does that mean an annuity is the right choice for your retirement? With flexible options such as drawdown and […]
Protecting Your Legacy: Inheritance Tax and Estate Planning with Blacktower
You’ve worked hard for your wealth. You’ve made sacrifices, built businesses, invested wisely, and accumulated assets that represent a lifetime of achievement. But have you considered how much of that wealth might reach your loved ones when the time comes? Without careful planning, a large portion of your estate could be lost to Inheritance Tax […]
Why Financial Advice Matters More Than Ever: Navigating Consumer Duty and Your Financial Future
Financial planning has never been simple. From pensions and investments to estate planning and tax management, the choices you make can have long-lasting consequences for your lifestyle and your family’s future. Add to this a constantly shifting regulatory landscape, and it’s no surprise that many people feel overwhelmed. One of the most significant recent changes […]
Long-Term Investing: Why Patience Often Pays Off
Market ups and downs can test even the most seasoned investors. But when it comes to building lasting wealth, research shows that remaining invested and keeping emotions in check is often more effective than trying to predict the perfect time to buy or sell. “Is now a good time to invest?” is a question that […]
Tax Freedom Day 2025: How Much of Your Year Goes to the Taxman?
If you’ve ever felt as though much of your working life is spent paying tax before you see any benefit for yourself, you may not be far wrong. With income tax, national insurance or social security, capital gains tax, VAT, council tax, excise duties and more, a significant proportion of income goes to the taxman […]
Retirement Planning: Why Waiting Could Seriously Impact Your Retirement
For some, retirement feels a lifetime away. For others, it’s right around the corner. Yet, whether you’re 30, 50, or already considering slowing down, one truth is becoming harder to ignore: most people are not saving enough for retirement. According to the BlackRock Read on Retirement 2024 survey, 50% of UK Defined Contribution pension holders […]
Forgotten Pensions: Why Expats Shouldn’t Overlook Them
For many British expatriates, pensions represent one of the largest parts of their wealth. Yet thousands of expats unknowingly leave retirement savings scattered across multiple schemes — some forgotten, some underperforming, others eroded by unnecessary fees. Since the UK’s auto-enrolment rules were introduced in 2012, millions of workers have been automatically enrolled in workplace pensions. […]
The Benefits of Financial Planning as a UK Expat
Why a strategic financial plan is essential for British nationals living abroad For British nationals who have chosen to live, work, or retire overseas, the expat lifestyle offers many opportunities—warmer climates, cultural enrichment, tax advantages, and improved quality of life. However, these benefits can quickly be undermined without careful and informed financial planning. Whether you’re […]