Author Archives: ross@planrfp.co.uk

Why general elections in 2024 could lead to volatile investment markets

A man putting a ballot paper into a ballot box.

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. […]

Why the numbers are essential for successful financial planning

A man looking at some paperwork.

When creating a financial plan, you often start with your goals. After all, setting out your aspirations first lets you create a plan that’s tailored to you. Yet, understanding your numbers is just as crucial for successful financial planning and they could help you understand the effect of your decisions. So, which numbers are the […]

The 3 essential pension decisions you should review to avoid becoming a “triple defaulter”

A woman using a laptop.

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 […]

Investment market update November 2023

An aerial view of the Thames and London.

While inflation is starting to ease in economies around the world, there are still signs of economic challenges ahead. Read on to find out what affected investment markets in November 2023.  UK  In November, chancellor Jeremy Hunt delivered the Autumn Statement. Despite media suggestions that Inheritance Tax would be abolished, the biggest announcement was a […]

10 digital gifts if you need a last-minute Christmas present

A woman receiving a digital gift on a smartphone

As Christmas approaches, so does the inevitable stress of gift buying. On top of finding presents for your loved ones, there’s always one person you forget.  Whether they’re an unexpected addition to the family party or you simply want an extra treat for your friends, you may need to quickly source an additional gift. You […]

2 surprising benefits of choosing to drip-feed your investments

A woman using an investment app on her phone.

If you want to start investing or would like to boost an existing portfolio, your mind might turn to using a lump sum. However, there could be benefits to drip-feeding your investments instead. Drip-feeding means you slowly add money to your investment portfolio. So, rather than investing £10,000 straightaway, you might increase your investment portfolio […]

5 useful gifting allowances that could help you pass on wealth tax-efficiently this Christmas

A woman unwrapping a Christmas gift.

It’s the season for giving. This Christmas, you might be thinking about how you could improve the security of your loved ones by gifting them money or assets. Read on to discover five potentially useful allowances that you might want to consider if your estate could be liable for Inheritance Tax (IHT). Some gifts are […]

3 useful ways regular financial reviews could help you reduce behavioural bias

A group of colleagues talking.

Financial reviews provide you with a chance to ensure your financial decisions continue to reflect your goals and circumstances, and to assess if you’re on track. They could also be a useful way to reduce behavioural bias. Over the last few months, you’ve read about why financial reviews are important and why you may need […]