Einstein once reportedly referred to compound interest as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, stating: “He who understands it, earns it, he who doesn’t, pays it”. So, just what is compound interest and when do you benefit from it?

Whilst financial jargon can often seem complex, compound interest is actually simple and easy to take advantage of. The term refers to the principle that when you save money you can earn interest on not only your initial contributions but on the interest itself. So, if you leave your money in a savings account for...

Bonds are a common feature in many investment portfolios, alongside stocks, shares and cash assets. But how do they fit into your investment portfolio and what percentage should be allocated to bonds?

What is a bond?

Before diving into purchasing bonds, it’s important to understand exactly what they are and, therefore, how they can be beneficial to you.

A bond is essentially a loan made by an investor to a borrower, which may be a government or business, as a way to raise money. As a result, bonds are sometimes thought of like an IOU. ...

Research suggests thousands could be missing out on investment returns in their pension because they haven’t updated their retirement age. Remaining engaged with your pension can help you create a retirement income that meets expectations. So, what should you review when looking at your pension?

1. What fund are you invested in?

Typically, a Defined Contribution pension will offer several different fund options for you to choose from. When you first join the scheme, you’ll automatically be enrolled into one and this will remain so unless...

Auto-enrolment has seen millions more saving into a pension. However, research suggests that those aged over 60 are far more likely to opt-out of their Workplace Pension scheme. Whilst it’s understandable that you may decide not to pay into a pension as you approach retirement, what could it cost you?

Auto-enrolment means that the majority of employees now automatically pay into a Workplace Pension fund. However, individuals can choose to opt-out if they wish. Despite increases to the minimum contribution levels at the start of the 2019/2...

Naming a Power of Attorney is often one of those tasks we know we should get around to but inevitably put off. The number of people registering a Power of Attorney has been rising, yet figures suggest millions could still be left in a vulnerable position should something happen to them.

If you’ve yet to name a Power of Attorney, we take a look at the reasons to consider doing so and how to go about it.

Let’s start with the basics: What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that names an individual or group of p...

 When you write a will, you expect your wishes to be upheld, but that’s not always the case. It is possible for those left behind to contest a will if they believe it is invalid or doesn’t make reasonable financial provisions for certain relatives or dependents. As the number of contested wills rise, it’s important to understand why this is and what can be done to minimise the risk of it happening.

In simple terms, a will contest is a formal objection raised against a will. There are several reasons why someone may choose to contest a wil...

In recent years, the peer to peer (P2P) lending market has grown rapidly. As you’ve looked for ways to maximise your savings, you might have come across opportunities and may even have been tempted. But, whilst it’s a sector that’s growing fast, it’s crucial to understand what it means and the associated risks.  

With interest rates still low following the 2008 financial crisis, savers are looking for a home for their money that offers returns. With potential interest rates significantly higher than what you can find at high street banks,...

 The Bank of Mum and Dad has become essential for many first-time buyers struggling to scrape together a deposit to secure a mortgage. However, research indicates that children and grandchildren are increasingly relying on financial support for a variety of reasons.

Whilst you may be keen to provide as much help as possible to loved ones, you may also be worried about the impact it will have on your own financial security. Understanding whether you’re in the financial position to offer some form of monetary help can give you the confidenc...

When a relationship breaks down, splitting up assets is common. From deciding who gets which pieces of furniture right through to property. However, one asset that’s commonly overlooked initially is pensions.

Alongside property, pensions may be the largest asset you have. When you consider how long you’ve been paying into it and the potential employer contributions, tax relief and investment returns, your pension could be worth more than you think if you haven’t been actively monitoring its value. As a result, it, and the pensions of your...