A survey suggests many investors expect an “unrealistic” average annual return of 9.2%. Find out why improbable returns could harm your financial plan and how to set realistic expectations.

While global government policy – particularly US trade tariffs – continued to influence the value of investments in August 2025, many markets experienced less volatility compared to the start of the year. Find out what factors may have affected the performance of your investments recently.

Life is often unexpected, and your financial plan should be updated to reflect changes to your circumstances or goals to ensure it continues to suit your needs. Read about four reasons why you might want to schedule an extra financial review.

The Autumn Budget is still weeks away, but there’s plenty of speculation about what will be included in the news. While it can feel tempting to respond to attention-grabbing headlines, it might lead to decisions that aren’t right for you or don’t align with your long-term financial plan.

More than half of pension holders don’t know how they can access their savings when they retire. Find out more about annuities, flexi-access drawdown, and withdrawing lump sums to understand which option could be right for you.

The US struck trade deals with several countries in July 2025, leading to markets rising and putting an end to some of the uncertainty that had plagued investors for months. Find out what else may have affected your investments recently.

Retirement is an exciting milestone but decumulation could present some challenges, such as changing your mindset and ensuring you don’t run out of money during your lifetime. Find out more about decumulation dilemmas and how a financial plan could help you manage them.

There’s a certain comfort in holding cash savings. However, looking at a wider range of options and investments could help you see higher returns. Find out why.

While the effect of trade uncertainty on investment markets eased in June, tensions in the Middle East worsened and led to volatility. Find out what else may have affected your investment portfolio recently.

Using AI or taking a DIY approach to writing your will could mean your assets aren’t distributed in a way that aligns with your wishes. Discover some of the key reasons why working with a solicitor could be valuable, from minimising mistakes to reflecting your financial plan.