Contact

News & Insights

Brexit Minister Provides Assurances of “Cooler Heads”

Raab spoke in some detail on the subject of expat pensions, reminding the assembled journalists that member states would only be punishing their own economic interests if they restricted access to pensions. “If you look at pensions, it’s hardly in the interest of southern Spain to do harm to the UK pensioners out there,” he said by way of example. “And what you would expect, and hopefully we will see, even in the unlikely event of no deal, is actually cooler heads prevailing and the kind of practical cooperation to make sure that contractual issues, whether pensions or otherwise, are navigated through.”

Continuing the theme, Raab offered his view that even if there was no deal, there would be no cause for panic. He said that the government was committed to making sure that it provided greatest possible levels of reassurance and practical support to British expats abroad.”

However, Raab was quick to dismiss the idea that Britain had given up on the prospect of achieving a workable deal. He said that although the government was busy planning for every possible eventuality a “no-deal” outcome was “not what we want and not what we expect”.

His comments follow a period in which the Association of British Insurers director Hugh Savill has come under criticism for making potentially unsettling statements regarding the future of expat pensions and cross-border financial services. Raab really does seem to be giving hope that cooler heads will indeed prevail.

Expat pensions expertise from Blacktower

Blacktower Financial Management offers expat financial advice including assistance with SIPP and QROPS expat transfers to help you protect, preserve and grow your wealth.

For more information about how we can help you successfully manage your wealth during the uncertainty of Brexit, contact us today.

This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.

Other News

Do you live in Spain and still have UK and Offshore Investments?

Many UK nationals have accumulated savings and investment portfolios using an array of options, such as National Savings to Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), Personal Equity Plans (PEPs) and Premium Bonds. Unfortunately, once you take up residence in Spain, the tax incentives provided by the UK schemes fall away and the income and gains may become wholly taxable under Spanish law.

When you move to a new country, it is a major change and should prompt a complete review of your wealth management to ensure it is as effective as possible for your new life. Similarly, if you have lived in Spain for a number of years, it would be wise to have a full review of your saving/investment/pension position to ensure optimum benefits. We take a look at some of the most common investment types and what your move to Spain might mean for your finances. 

Read More

The Catalan Crisis in Spain

Catalan and Spanish FlagCatalonia’s push for independence after a referendum has plunged Spain into its worst political crisis since the attempted military coup in 1981.

The crisis could have huge repercussions for the Spanish economy. Catalonia itself has its own language, parliament, police force and controls some of its own public services, such as schools and healthcare.  It is one of Spain’s wealthiest and most productive regions and has a distinct history dating back almost 1,000 years.

Read More

Select your country

Please select your country of residence so we can provide you with the most relevant information: