While many economies are still struggling with high inflation there are signs that the pace is starting to slow, which could pave the way for interest rate cuts later this year. To reflect this, the OECD has lifted its 2024 global growth forecast by 0.3%, when compared to the end of 2023, to 2.9%. However,
Humanity is becoming increasingly aware of how we treat our planet. With more people experiencing the effects of climate change and global warming than ever before, the campaigns to protect the Earth are becoming more urgent. Earth Day has advocated for permanent, global change to save our planet for over 50 years. Named the planet’s
As a self-employed worker, it can be more difficult to manage your finances. Your income may vary or not be as reliable as those who are employed. According to a study from Scottish Widows, almost half of self-employed workers said their income fluctuates. The research suggests that self-employed people could be more susceptible to income
If you have an estate plan, you shouldn’t simply forget about it. Instead, regular reviews can help ensure it continues to reflect your wishes and circumstances. Sometimes you may have a specific reason to review your estate plan. Life milestones can often cause you to reflect on the steps you’ve previously taken. Experiences like getting
Young workers calculating how much they need to save for retirement can feel like they face an impossible challenge. Yet, research suggests that a significant proportion could be on track to exceed the Lifetime Allowance (LTA). The findings highlight how valuable saving early and the compounding effect of investments are. The LTA is the total
If you’re guilty of ignoring your pension, a review ahead of Pension Awareness Day on 15 September can help make sure you’re on track for the retirement you want. Here are five important things to check. 1. How is your pension invested? The money held in your pension is usually invested. This provides an opportunity
As you may be aware, we recently sent out a client survey to gain an insight into your thoughts and feelings about the service we provide and identify areas where we can improve. As promised, we’re sharing the survey results with you and what changes we’ll make where necessary. Of those who completed the survey,
One of the biggest social changes over the last 50 years has been the rise in the do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to jobs around the house. This has resulted in the rise of DIY superstores, along with any number of books and TV programmes encouraging you to sort things out for yourself rather than get someone
Rising inflation and concerns about recession risks continue to place pressure on households and affect economies around the world. The World Bank has slashed its 2022 global growth forecasts from 4.1% to 2.9%. The organisation also warned the global economy is at risk of experiencing stagflation, where economic growth is stagnant, but inflation is high.
In the last year, energy prices have soared. As a result, you may be thinking about how you can reduce your usage or improve how efficient your home is. The conflict in Ukraine has had a knock-on effect on energy prices around the world. While the energy price cap limits the amount your supplier can
This year marks 20 years since the start of National Allotment Week. The campaign began in 2002 to raise awareness of allotments and the role they play in helping people to live healthier lifestyles, grow their own food, and improve communities. This year the awareness week takes place between 8 and 14 August. This year
The cost of living is rising quicker than has been normal in the last few decades. Indeed, the last time inflation was this high was in the 1980s. So, what happened then compared to now? According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), inflation in the 12 months to June 2022 was 9.4%. As a