
Guest Blog – UK to Overseas Pension Transfers – Are they still relevant?
In spite of the “traffic light” system continuing to create frustrating delays to pension transfers (as highlighted so excellently by Paul Forman in his article in the August 2022 edition of The Trade Press), there are still solid reasons why an overseas transfer may make sense for those who have left the UK to settle …

Inheritance, Wills & Trusts: 7 Steps For Smart Estate Planning
How important is estate planning? Over half of all adults (60%) die without a will, according to data from Unbiased. This means that more than 31 million people run the risk of dying intestate, which could result in their home, investments and savings being distributed in a way that doesn’t align with their wishes. People …

What to do if you’re in a financially dependent relationship
One in three women in a relationship are financially dependent on their partner, according to YouGov data. Women who work full time are less likely to be financially dependent than those who don’t have a job or work part-time. But even so, a fifth of women with full-time jobs are still reliant on their partner …

How does inflation affect savings? Protect your wealth with these tips
A perfect storm of post-lockdown recovery, supply-chain issues and soaring energy and fuel prices have pushed up the cost of goods and services across the world. In the UK, inflation has jumped to its highest rate in a decade. In Spain, it’s surged to a 29-year high and in the US it’s at 5.4%. A …

5 reasons you might need life insurance
Life insurance can be one of those investments that you never get round to exploring. Many people underestimate just how important and valuable a life insurance policy can be. The problem is exasperated by the very human tendency to avoid talking or even thinking about death. If you’re wondering if it’s worth the money, here …

How to make a Will as an expat
Wills for expats can be tricky and there is no one-size-fits all solution. The law in your country of residence may not apply to you and your estate, so what happens after death will depend on where you die. For example, if you die in England but have property or assets in France then French …

How you can pass money down to the next generation
There was once a time when inheritance tax was mostly paid by the very wealthy. But thanks to rising house prices and investments that have had decades to compound, even those who earn a modest income may be taxed on their estate when they pass away. Many people assume that inheritance tax can completely obliterate …

Has your current adviser ever asked you these 7 essential questions?
Questions asked by your current adviser can provide real insight into how they work. Most financial advisers concentrate on selling you a product to fix a ‘problem’ rather than tackling proper financial planning that focuses on the most important thing – you. Most people value a service that relates to their goals and dreams. They …

Monthly financial checklist
When it comes to keeping on top of your financial situation and all associated tasks, it can easily feel overwhelming. However, if you break it down month-by-month and focus on one thing at a time it’s less daunting and more manageable. Think of it like a financial checklist. January: review your net worth and asset …

Calculating your retirement fund
Calculating exactly how much money you will need for retirement can feel like a daunting task. But, planning retirement, especially as an expat, is a key part of sound financial planning. Working, or living internationally, has wonderful benefits, but it can complicate retirement and inheritance planning somewhat. Ensure you know where you will be a …