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Expats Retirement Planning – No-one can See into the Future

Yes, in all probability the pension pot billions that have already been transferred into various pension schemes by more than 120,000 expats since 2006 will probably be safe, but for those who have not yet made a decision regarding expat retirement transfers, there will almost certainly be another period of limbo.

The reality is that there is so much to be covered in the Brexit agreement that it will be no surprise if pension transfers are not resolved until some time after the March deadline, most likely in one of the budgets following the UK’s official departure from the EU.

And it is difficult to predict just what the government might decide is the best way to manage expat-retirement transfers post-Brexit. Some experts believe that they will remain in place but with additional charges, others believe that new schemes will arise to meet the altered landscape. Whatever the case, it seems that taking advice and planning now is the only way current expats can ensure they do not become stuck in limbo.

Of course, financial advisers cannot see into the future and anyone who tells you they know what will happen is really just speculating. So what we suggest is that you discuss your wealth management with a financial adviser as soon as possible, so that you have a clearer picture of where you stand right now.

Blacktower financial advisers work across Europe and beyond and have been helping expats manage their retirement planning and investment portfolios for more than 30 years. While none of us has experienced Brexit before, we understand our respective jurisdictions thoroughly and comprehensively, so you can be assured that whether you are an expat planning your retirement in France, Spain, Portugal or in any one of our serviced countries or regions, we will be happy to discuss your plans and support you as you negotiate the next few years.

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

Reforms to pension tax relief may happen soon

TaxThe importance of putting money into a pension cannot be understated, and the British government has a regulation in place – the pension tax relief scheme – to encourage people to save. But many experts are predicting significant changes to the scheme. If you’re planning to retire overseas as an expat and take advantage of international pension transfers, you’ll need to stay updated with these changes.

How does pension tax relief work?

The pension tax relief scheme is an incentive to entice people to put money into their pension pot. To reward people for thinking ahead to their retirement, the government currently tops up their pension contributions based on the rate at which they pay income tax. So, basic rate taxpayers will receive 20 per cent tax relief (meaning they only need to pay £80 into their pot to get £100), while higher rate taxpayers are entitled to 40 per cent relief.

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Food for expat thought: Takeaway anyone?

Fish and ChipsWhat do you miss most as an expat?

Of course, there will be no shortage of new experiences available to you in your expat environment, especially if you are moving overseas to retire, but sometimes, it’s the smallest things that might bring a lump to your throat…or a rumble to your stomach, maybe.

Perhaps this was the case for one group of British expats who chartered a plane to fly in a large delivery from their favourite curry house in Portsmouth.

James Emery, an aviation assessor for trainee pilots in France, piloted the small aircraft which flew 89 meals from Solent Airport all the way to Bordeaux.

“I’m a chilli addict, “he said, “and an aviation geek, so I thought I would combine my two hobbies to get my favourite meal to me in France.”

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