Many markets rallied during December based on the expectation that interest rates will start to fall in 2024. Read on to discover what else may have affected your investment portfolio in the final month of 2023. 

On 27 December, the MSCI World Stock Index, which comprises stock from nearly 3,000 companies to track global equity-market performance, was up 4.5% when compared to the start of the month. It was driven by expectations that interest rates will start to fall in early 2024.  

The price of gold has also been affected by hopes that...

The start of the new year is the perfect time to reflect on what has happened over the past 12 months. Although the news often focuses on disheartening events, there are plenty of heartwarming stories out there that can restore your faith in humanity.

From science breakthroughs to exciting projects, here are seven stories you might have missed.

1. Researchers discovered a new treatment for Alzheimer’s

Scientists found that two 20-minute electrical stimulation sessions per day can improve the memory and cognitive performance of elderly p...

The last few years have seen volatile investment markets due to the pandemic, lockdowns, and fears that high inflation could lead to economic recessions. Looming general elections could mean investors continue to experience ups and downs throughout 2024. 

UK prime minister Rishi Sunak is expected to call a general election at some point in 2024. Indeed, the last nationwide vote took place on 19 December 2019, so the next general election has to happen by 28 January 2025 – five years after the current parliament first met. 

As of December...

Traditionally, people passed on wealth to their loved ones once they passed away through a will. However, you might be considering gifting assets during your lifetime to create a living legacy. Read on to discover the pros and cons you may want to consider before deciding which option is right for you.

The benefits of passing on assets during your lifetime 

A living legacy may allow you to help your loved ones when they need it most

One of the key drawbacks of a traditional inheritance is that they’re often received later in life when l...

Retirement can be an exciting milestone, but one that you might feel nervous about too. Setting out how to achieve the retirement lifestyle you want could help put your mind at ease. One of the first things you may have to consider is how you’ll retire – would a phased retirement suit you?

Over the next few months, you can read about key considerations if you’re nearing retirement, from contemplating the emotional side of stepping away from work to how to access your pension. Read on to discover if a gradual retirement transition could be...

Pension savers dubbed “triple defaulters” could be overlooking small changes to their pension that may make their long-term finances more secure. Have you reviewed these three important pension decisions recently? 

According to a survey from Aviva, millions of workers who have been auto-enrolled into a pension scheme have never updated their contributions, investment choices, or target retirement age. The findings could suggest many people are approaching retirement unprepared.

Indeed, more than half of those on a middle income due to re...

Your home may be one of the largest assets you have. With property wealth often inaccessible, you may be considering using equity release to unlock some of the money tied up in your home.

According to the Equity Release Council, the average new customer unlocking property wealth releases almost £60,000. So, using equity release could provide a significant financial boost in your later years.

However, it can have a long-lasting effect on your finances so it’s crucial you understand what equity release means and whether it’s the right opti...

Economies around the world continue to struggle with high inflation and weakening demand affecting GDP. Read on to discover some of the factors that may have affected your investment portfolio in September 2023.

When reviewing short-term market movements, remember to focus on your long-term investment goals.

UK

Official data shows the UK economy contracted by 0.5% in July. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) attributed the poor performance to strike action and poor weather.

However, there was some good GDP data. The ONS said the U...

A will provides a way to state who you’d like to receive your assets when you pass away. While you don’t need to work with a solicitor when writing a will, doing so could help you avoid mistakes.

Will Aid is taking place in November and may be the perfect time to write your will while supporting good causes.

Every year, participating solicitors volunteer to waive their usual fee for writing a basic will. Instead, they invite clients to make a voluntary donation to Will Aid. The donations support a variety of charities, including Age UK, ...