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Pension freedoms are being compromised

Now there is possible relief in sight. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is poised to clamp down on greedy managers by insisting they cannot charge more than one per cent of the value of the pot, but the change will not come into force until next March at the earliest.

So, anyone cashing in or transferring out of their pension today could still have their pocket picked. The move will make it easier for people to drop their pension if they are getting a poor deal or make full use of their new pension freedoms to cash in their pot without penalty.

Before you take any action on your pension you should seek advice from a financial adviser to see how you may be affected.  This could help you avoid the pitfalls of being overcharged for moving your money to a better position.  You will also receive advice on the most tax-efficient position you can achieve.  A simple review will also allow you to compare the benefits you are likely to receive from your current plan and the other options that are available to you.  

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

Italy introduces new tax break for wealthy expats

Leaning Tower of PisaItaly has introduced a new ‘non-dom’ tax incentive which may see many wealthy British expats relocating to its shores, as well as convincing rich Italian expats to return. The new measure was approved by the Italian parliament in December as part of Italy’s Finance Bill 2017.

It ensures that foreign residents will be exempt from Italian tax on all offshore income and gains for a flat-rate tax charge of €100,000 (about £84,000). For a further €25,000, the tax exemption can be extended to family members.

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Disclosure of assets

In light of the Panama Papers and their revelations, it would appear that it is not only tax evasion is in the headlines but also tax avoidance schemes. Evading tax by concealing income is illegal, avoiding tax by exploiting the tax rules technically is not.

panama papersTo help tax authorities in various countries hunt out those individuals and companies trying to hide assets, the UK has recently signed a disclosure of asset agreement with Spain, Germany, France and Italy. What does this mean? It means that the UK, in partnership with France, Germany, Spain and Italy, have passed regulations that will lead to the automatic sharing of information about the true owners of companies, complex shell companies and overseas trusts.

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