S&P 500 locks in best month of 2023
S&P 500 locks in best month of 2023
December 5, 2023
October may have been a month to forget, but November was certainly one to remember. In fact, 2022 was a whole year to forget for investors. This year, on the other hand, has very much been characterised by returns on risk assets – US technology in particular.
Investment themes for 2024
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Investment themes for 2024
November 29, 2023
Interest rates look as though they are starting to level off, catalysing the emergence of a new investment environment with opportunities that have not existed for a long time. This week, Investment Analyst Nick Harrington considers what 2024 might hold for investors.
Equities and bonds rally
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Equities and bonds rally
November 22, 2023
As the Treasury and the country more widely gear up for the Autumn Statement, the UK is on a glide path to normal inflation levels. Pay rises are now outstripping inflation by the highest levels for two years, and the current interest rate hike cycle appears to have peaked. It’s been a good month so far – the best this year. Will December deliver further gains?
How should you draw on your pension…
How should you draw on your pension…
November 16, 2023
This week, Nick Rolf considers various factors you should think about before deciding to crack open your pension pot. And when you do, how best to draw on those assets tax-efficiently.
A corrective bump in the bull market
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A corrective bump in the bull market
November 8, 2023
Governor of the Bank of England Andrew Bailey has described the outlook for UK economic growth as “subdued”, but he expects inflation to fall to around 3% and for it to stay at that level throughout most of next year – above the 2% target rate. However, he has warned that if the Israel-Hamas conflict spreads throughout the Middle East, it could have a knock-on effect on energy prices.
5 essential tips for building your wealth
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5 essential tips for building your wealth
November 1, 2023
Explore the five essential steps to accumulate wealth for your future. This includes devising a strategic plan and mastering the art of saving and investing. Learn to handle the intricacies of debt management and tax allowances, and start investing now to benefit from compounding.
Escalating bond yields and Middle East tensions
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Escalating bond yields and Middle East tensions
October 25, 2023
An escalation of the Israel-Gaza war into a broader conflict could deliver another shock to world growth and halt disinflationary forces in their tracks. Market reaction has been modest so far… but that could change.
How do you know if you are ready to retire?
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How do you know if you are ready to retire?
October 18, 2023
This week, Wealth Manager Tom Fleming talks about the options you have for making sure that you are in the best possible position to retire from work… but not from life. Tom discusses adjusting your investment strategy from high-risk to lower-risk, the benefits of phased retirement, and how to leverage your state pension, ISA, and other allowances effectively for a secure future.
How will the Middle East conflict impact the economy?
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How will the Middle East conflict impact the economy?
October 11, 2023
The outbreak of military conflict in the Middle East may leave central bankers battling new inflationary trends as well as deal a blow to economic confidence at a time when they had expressed growing hope about containing the price surge sparked by the pandemic and Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
5 tips for reducing inheritance tax
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5 tips for reducing inheritance tax
October 3, 2023
Discover five practical and actionable tips to reduce inheritance tax and safeguard your assets. This article on estate planning will guide you on maximising what you leave for your beneficiaries, ensuring the long-term protection of your hard-earned wealth from the taxman.
Interest Rates Hold Steady
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Interest Rates Hold Steady
September 27, 2023
In a surprise move, UK interest rates have been left unchanged – but at 5.25%, they are still at their highest for 15 years. Price rises appear to be slowing faster than expected, but there are increasing signs that higher rates are starting to hurt the UK economy, according to the Bank of England.
Financial solutions for entrepreneurs
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Financial solutions for entrepreneurs
September 19, 2023
Discover how we can support your business at every stage, from start to exit. Our expert team can provide advice on key man insurance, share protection agreements, EMI schemes, and company pension schemes. We'll ensure your finances are in order before and after selling your business, setting you up for your next venture or a comfortable retirement.
India’s ascent to superpower status
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India’s ascent to superpower status
September 12, 2023
The financial markets remain focused on inflation and the labour market. But rising oil prices are also a factor in an increasingly complex equation. As the end of the UK’s current interest rate hike cycle comes into view, growth looks set to slow dramatically in China as its economic outlook worsens. Meanwhile, a new superpower is being born…
Aligning positive change with investment returns
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Aligning positive change with investment returns
September 5, 2023
This week, Associate Investment Analyst Nick Harrington discusses the options we have for investing for positive change, and how we can align our investments with social and environmental causes – as well as securing returns.
The world's most important central banker meetup
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The world's most important central banker meetup
August 29, 2023
This week our CIO looks at the aftermath of the Jackson Hole Symposium, such as the Fed's commitment to defeating inflation and maintaining pressure through interest rate hikes. He discusses the BRICS summit and the potential impact of its expansion. Investors should remain disciplined and patient, particularly as we head into September, which is a historically volatile month for the markets.
Summertime pullback: a buying opportunity for investors
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Summertime pullback: a buying opportunity for investors
August 15, 2023
As China’s economy falters, inflation continues to trend down in the US and there are grounds for optimism on this side of the Atlantic. The UK economy grew faster than expected in the second quarter, and the recent pullback is the perfect buying opportunity for those investors who have been playing it safe up until now.
Growth and stability for the markets?
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Growth and stability for the markets?
August 1, 2023
The UK may have the highest debt interest costs in the developed world. The Bank of Japan made a surprise decision on its bond market and yield curve control, and Germany heavily invests in the semiconductor industry. Overall, the markets are enjoying some stability at last.
Wealth-building for the future
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Wealth-building for the future
July 25, 2023
Wealth Manager Tom Fleming takes a look at wealth-building strategies for individuals at all stages of their careers, but especially for young people who are just beginning their professional lives. Consider sharing this guidance with your children to help them establish a strong financial foundation early on.
The US tames inflation
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The US tames inflation
July 18, 2023
The US has successfully tamed inflation, unlike the Bank of England which faces the need for further interest rate hikes. The global economy undergoes a shift from a binary state to a more balanced one.
Property or pension: the best investment choice
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Property or pension: the best investment choice
July 11, 2023
Property vs pensions, which is the better investment decision? Nick Rolf compares investing in property and pensions for retirement funding, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, including tax benefits, potential returns, and risk factors.
Global markets in the first half of 2023
Global markets in the first half of 2023
July 4, 2023
2023 has seen significant movement in global financial markets, with AI stock surges, a banking crisis, and relentless interest rate hikes leading to a rollercoaster ride for investors. IQ’s CIO provides a summary at the halfway point of the year.
Growth vs Value Investing
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Growth vs Value Investing
June 27, 2023
Investment Analyst, Nick Harrington, explores the importance of choosing the right investment approach during market volatility for optimal returns.
Inflation, interest rates, and mortgages
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Inflation, interest rates, and mortgages
June 20, 2023
The UK experiences rising interest rates, while the US takes a pause. UK households face increasing pressure as mortgage costs continue to rise. Eurozone recession worries loom while AI shapes Wall Street's potential bull market, offering opportunities and risks.
Unlocking budgeting and saving secrets
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Unlocking budgeting and saving secrets
June 13, 2023
Unveiling budgeting and saving secrets amidst a cost-of-living crisis. Revolutionise your finances with these top apps and discover how to manage and invest your money with the latest fintech tools.
A(I) turnaround for tech
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A(I) turnaround for tech
June 6, 2023
Wall Street thrills with record-breaking stock market gains, while China's economic recovery falters. Amidst the chaos, the tech sector stages a remarkable comeback, fuelled by AI advancements.
Estate planning
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Estate planning
May 30, 2023
Nick Rolf discusses estate and legacy planning: from writing a will to setting up a trust to minimising inheritance tax, here are the building blocks of an efficient estate plan.
AI stocks drive Wall Street growth
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AI stocks drive Wall Street growth
May 23, 2023
Wall Street, European, and Japanese stock markets are exceeding growth expectations, with the AI boom playing a significant role in Wall Street's remarkable resilience. UK April inflation has dropped to a single digit.
Annuities are back in the mix
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Annuities are back in the mix
May 19, 2023
Wealth Manager Melissa Thorogood discusses the renewed popularity of annuities after some 14 years out in the retirement mix cold. Ongoing market volatility and rising interest rates mean that guaranteed income for life is worth considering again.
Financial markets defy all odds
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Financial markets defy all odds
May 9, 2023
Financial markets have defied all odds over the first four months of the year, successfully withstanding interest rate hikes, stubbornly high inflation and a banking crisis in the US.
What to do with your inheritance
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What to do with your inheritance
April 25, 2023
Looking to make the most of your inheritance money? Wealth Manager Tom shares his tips on how to reduce inheritance tax, pay off your debts, invest wisely, maximise your pension pot, and save for your future.
Geopolitical tensions persist
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Geopolitical tensions persist
April 18, 2023
Geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington are threatening to derail the global recovery, despite encouraging inflation figures in the US. In the UK, meanwhile, inflation is proving somewhat more stubborn.
New Consumer Duty │ Raising the bar
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New Consumer Duty │ Raising the bar
April 12, 2023
The FCA has announced a game-changing shift in the industry with its new Consumer Duty, and we're ready to embrace it. From communication procedures to staff training, we're determined to raise the bar and set a new standard for quality.
All eyes on oil
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All eyes on oil
April 4, 2023
As the first quarter of 2023 draws to a close, it’s time to take stock of the markets and see if a strong technology sector has managed to offset the troubles that have hit the banking sector.
AI in the workplace
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AI in the workplace
March 27, 2023
AI is revolutionising the workplace by automating mundane tasks and freeing up employees to focus on high-value work. And the exciting news is that AI is just getting started. Read this article to discover what transformative changes we can expect in the future.
Banking sector turmoil
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Banking sector turmoil
March 21, 2023
FTSE 100 tumbled by more than 3% amid the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the acquisition of Credit Suisse by UBS. CIO Peter Lowman reassures investors that nerves are settling.
Business tips in a volatile climate
Business tips in a volatile climate
March 14, 2023
Nick Rolf discusses business financial planning in a volatile economic environment and shares his top tips for established business owners, as well as people setting up a business.
Global markets to 6 March
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Global markets to 6 March
March 7, 2023
Following a strong start to the year, volatility has returned to both stocks and bond markets. Upcoming events will be key in determining whether what lies ahead will be more bullish… or more bearish.
What happens if you get ill?
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What happens if you get ill?
February 28, 2023
This week, our CEO discusses income protection, critical illness cover and various other schemes available to help you maintain your standard of living when things don’t go your way.
Global markets to 20 February
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Global markets to 20 February
February 21, 2023
What recession? Nearly two months into 2023, the economy is looking fairly resilient and is even surprising us. Geopolitically, meanwhile, the rift between the world’s two remaining superpowers is worsening.
Tax year end is nigh
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Tax year end is nigh
February 14, 2023
It’s six weeks until the end of the tax year. During market volatility, it’s even more important to take advantage of every possible instrument, allowance and wrapper to shield your hard-earned money from the taxman.
Global markets to 6 February
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Global markets to 6 February
February 7, 2023
Evidence suggests that inflation has peaked, oil prices are down by around 40% from last year’s highs, and it is looking increasingly as though 13 October 2022 was when the markets bottomed out.
Boost your retirement income by up to £47,000
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Boost your retirement income by up to £47,000
January 31, 2023
Chartered Financial Planner, Melissa Thorogood, explains how you can boost your retirement income by up to £47,000 by following these steps…
Global markets to 23 January
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Global markets to 23 January
January 24, 2023
Following a positive start to the year in the financial markets, the last few days have seen a downturn. Regional markets dampen investor sentiment, China’s Covid cases soar and US tech companies slash workforces.
Your tax year end checklist
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Your tax year end checklist
January 17, 2023
The current tax year will end on the 5 April 2023. You must have used all this year’s tax reliefs and allowances by this date. Don't let them go to waste!
Global markets to 9 January
Global markets to 9 January
January 10, 2023
Following a traumatic 2022, the first Lowdown of the year finally brings some good news for investors… China reopened and the FTSE 100 Index hit its highest level for nearly five years.