Hello, welcome and thank you for taking time out of your day to read the latest in our quarterly email updates
we distribute. I do hope you find these informative, and appreciate everyone’s continued support. As a reminder, these are circulated to keep you up to speed with topical items, such as market conditions, hints and tips as well as the latest developments in the World of IFS. As always there’s many more topics I could cover, but I’ve tried to narrow it down to what I consider the most appropriate.
So here goes again…
General Election
Surprisingly, this as everyone will be aware has been set for the 4th July 2024, American Independence Day. Not sure if this date was deliberately set to coincide, and I’m certainly not going to get involved in any political debates. Will this have any financial connotations, almost always certainly, however what these may be is yet to be determined. Regardless, I always believe in ‘looking after yourself’, so whatever may be the overall headline is irrelevant if it doesn’t efect you and/or your family in any way, shape or form. Similarly, when looking at financial planning, I always look at your objectives as an individual, and all you can ever advise are the circumstances and rules (so to speak) at that given time. You can never accurately second guess what might happen.
Markets
Despite a slight dip in the last few days, the first half of this year to date has proven to be far more positive than some of the doom and gloom of the 18 month period previous. Inlation appears to be back to the year on year 2% target, and although many industry predictions now don’t forecast a drop in the bank base rate in June (They will sit as normal even though an election has been called) it would appear likely August will now see a rate drop, and potentially another later in the year. 2025, they are predicted to fall further. Please don’t expect rates to drop to the unprecedented levels we did see in 2022 and before. But overall, as individuals, the outlook is positive.
LifeBook
Produced by Age UK, I have attached a really useful document that I would encourage everyone to at least part complete. Of course this can’t replace a Will, but is a great use of important information.
How to find a lost pension
In the absence of the ever promised pensions dashboard, you may find this link useful:
Track down your lost pensions – Royal London
5 minutes of fame
Well, 23 actually. Some of you may have seen this, for those of you that haven’t then if you have 23 minutes of your life that you’ll never get back, please fill your boots and feel free to watch this link.
WHY HAVING A SOLID BUSINESS PLAN IS CRUCIAL I With Marcus Woolley I The Business Spotlight – YouTube
Ongoing Charges
Several years ago now, commissions were disposed of in the Investment and Pensions World, in favour for a charging structure to implement financial advice, and ofer continual servicing. Due to a regulatory initiative which came in to efect nearly a year ago, these charges have come under scrutiny, and I as an Advisor must ensure ‘fair value’ with regard to these charges. This is why we conduct annual reviews, as well being on hand for any requirements over the course of the years. I do hope everyone does see the value I bring to the table,however I welcome any feedback as always where warranted. From a commercial perspective, these have greatly assisted in ensuring that IFS remains a viable proposition, and can remain able to continue as an organisation.
Flying Solo
Many of you will by now be aware that my Wife and work partner in crime Kirsty, has flown the IFS nest after 6 years and taken up a new challenge, as a retail sales adviser with Virgin Atlantic. This decision wasn’t taken lightly by Kirsty, but in an ever-changing environment this is 100% the right decision for her. I’m sure you’ll all join me in wishing her all the very best for the future, I for one believe our loss is most certainly their gain.
Finally. I believe I’m pretty much on top of emails and getting back to anyone with outstanding queries. If I’m not, then please do feel free to drop me a line as a reminder.
So that’s it from me for now, all that remains is to enjoy the remainder of your week whatever that may hold.
Thanks as always
