2024 is a historic election year – elections will take place in 50 countries. More than 2 billion voters will head to the polls in countries including the UK, US, France, and South Africa throughout the year. Political uncertainty can affect investment markets and there was evidence of this in June. During market volatility, remember that…
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While we all like to think that we are capable of making rational decisions, it appears that when it comes to investing, a switch inside even the most sensible person seems to flick and rationality disappears in a cloud of emotion. Being an investor is not easy. We have to contend not only with the erratic and unpredictable nature of…
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Often one of the biggest benefits of a bespoke financial plan is that it allows you to devise a blueprint to follow, with your goals placed at the centre. It’s a strategy that could help you focus on what you want to achieve in life and make working with a professional even more valuable to you.
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When you think about what you want the future to look like, it’s probably not the value of your assets that comes to mind first. Instead, you might think about the experiences you want or the well-being of your loved ones Yet, to build the life you want, money is usually an important factor. While you…
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The tapering of the Personal Allowance means some higher-rate taxpayers effectively pay an Income Tax rate of 60%, sometimes without realising. Fortunately, if you’re affected, there could be ways to reduce your tax bill. A report in the Telegraph suggests 1.35 million workers were affected by the…
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Your relationship with money may play a huge role in how you handle financial decisions and your long-term security. Many factors affect your financial decisions, but you might be surprised by how much your childhood experiences still influence you today. The majority of parents recognise how important financial education is. Indeed, according to…
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In today’s world, the financial services industry faces a unique and pressing challenge: balancing profitability with sustainability and ethical practices. As climate change, social justice issues, and environmental degradation become more urgent, businesses must adapt to meet the demands of conscientious clients, regulatory bodies, and the planet. Here at Herbert Scott, we have been thinking about our impact on the…
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A new digital service has been launched that makes it easier to check if you have any gaps in your National Insurance (NI) record that may affect your State Pension entitlement. The service is called Check Your State Pension Forecast and can be accessed via GOV.UK or the HMRC app. You will need to register for or…
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The UK boasts some of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. Trails across the country can take you through sleepy fishing villages, tumbling clifftops, and unique natural formations that are the stuff of legends. Though your adventure may depend upon the whim of the infamously temperamental British climate, there are stretches of the…
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The world’s largest sovereign wealth fund has become a leader in ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investing. Yet, the money initially came from an unlikely source – fossil fuels. Read on to find out how Norway’s “oil fund” embraces ESG issues, and how you could too. Norway’s sovereign wealth fund holds around 1.5% of…
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