“Consumer confidence has started the year well” On Friday, the latest UK consumer confidence data from GfK showed that households are more optimistic about their personal finances. The index recorded a three point increase in January, to a reading of -19, the highest level in two years. This is despite a small untick in the […]
Monthly archives: January 2024
2024 – a year of portfolio expansion for BTL landlords
2024 is set to be a promising year for landlords, with 32% of buy-to-let landlords intending to buy more property according to a survey1. Driven by a desire to build their portfolio, nearly half of those with purchasing plans this year already own at least 11 properties. Driven by increased demand Some landlords who aim […]
Global dividends – encouraging growth?
A new study1 analysing global dividend trends has highlighted that, in the third quarter of last year, 89% of companies chose to maintain their dividend levels or raise them. Despite this, it was noted that during the quarter, global dividends reduced by 0.9% (on a headline basis) to total $421.9bn. The underlying growth of dividends, […]
Prospects of stronger economic growth
As we enter a new year, the global economy sits in a relatively precarious position, with the long-term consequences of the pandemic, as well as ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions all hindering growth prospects. While such times can appear daunting for investors, the key to successful investing actually remains the same: focus on long-term goals […]
Financial advice: much more than the bottom line
The true value of financial advice clearly goes well beyond simply maximising the monetary value of a client’s portfolio. As we progress through life’s journey, the major events that confront us all certainly come with financial costs. However, they also generate an array of emotions and feelings, and the provision of advice has a critical […]
Residential Property Review – January 2024
Falling mortgage rates bolster housing market Hope seems to be on the horizon for the housing market as the year gets off to a promising start. The decision from many mortgage lenders to reduce rates seems to have had the desired effect, as buyer interest has noticeably increased. Lenders are competing to offer the best […]
Commercial Property Review – January 2024
Different challenges set to confront investors in 2024 The newly-released UK Commercial Cross Sector Outlook for 2024 from Savills has provided insight for the year ahead. Expectations from Mat Oakley, Director of Commercial Research, suggest that the factors impacting property values and confidence are set to improve this year, but as high inflation and […]
Get the year off to the right start with a protection review
Get the year off to the right start with a protection review Why not kickstart 2024 by reassessing your finances, particularly if you’ve undergone recent life changes? This should include reviewing your protection insurance to ensure it aligns with your current needs. Get protected Protection tailored to your circumstances serves as a crucial safety net […]
Planning for a secure financial future
Over the past 12 months, the cost-of-living crisis has put significant pressure on household budgets and knocked many people’s confidence in their future financial prospects. Research, however, shows that planning is a key driver of positivity about our financial futures; so, as a new year dawns, now seems the perfect time to take stock of […]
Preparing for winter storms
Minnie and Olga, Regina and Stuart – are all storm names for 2024 pre-allocated by the Met Office. With the average claim for storm damage topping £3,0001, it’s important to protect your home against extreme weather. So, what measures can you take? Keeping safe in a storm Ensuring you insure The most important step to […]
