In the know

In this episode,  Ian Robinson  and  Shaun Braybrook  discuss the role cash plays within client portfolios and the considerations to note.  Their conversation centres around several important themes, with the key talking points being: why you should hold cash; the appropriate level of cash to hold; whether cash is king; considerations; if investments could be more suitable in the long-term;  alter...

In this episode,  Neil Clarke  and  Shaun Braybrook  discuss the tax-related changes announced by Labour in the Autumn Budget.  Their conversation centres around the announcements made by the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, as well as the financial planning implications of these. It also includes references to their predictions from  episode 45 , which you may wish to listen to first.  The key talking...

In this episode,  Neil Clarke  and  Shaun Braybrook  discuss the rumours they have heard ahead of the Budget and the likelihood of Labour making specific tax-related changes. They discuss: pension tax-free lump sums; tax relief on pension contributions; how pensions are treated for Inheritance Tax purposes; the introduction of a 'Wealth Tax'; altering Capital Gains Tax; increasing the rate...

In this episode,  Nathan Munt  and  Emma Hannon  reveal what you can expect from your first financial planning meeting and how to prepare. Within their conversation, they cover: the purpose of this first financial planning meeting; how and what to prepare; questions you could ask; why you should be open to conversations on more than your finances; and the importance of ensuring the financial plann...

In this episode,  Nathan Munt  and  Emma Hannon  discuss some of the things you must consider when seeking a financial planner to assist you. Within their conversation, they cover: the difference between financial guidance and advice; what to look out for when finding a financial planner to work with;  the difference between a financial planner, financial adviser and wealth manager; and considerin...

In this episode,  Neil Clarke  discusses the current and future state of the financial markets with Henrietta Walker. The key topics include: - interest rates in the US vs the UK; - inflation; - the current appeal of fixed interest options; and - opportunities in the equity markets. Henrietta is Head of the Investment Specialist Team at Brooks Macdonald, who are one of our trusted investment panel...

In this episode,  Josh Cushion  and  Paul Thurston  discuss the changes to pension rules which came into effect from April 2024 and how this could impact you. Within their conversation, they cover: the removal of the Lifetime Allowance; the new Lump Sum Allowance and Lump Sum Death Benefit Allowance; how both allowances are tested;  who may need to apply for a Transitional Tax-Free Amount Certific...

In this episode,  Neil Clarke  and  Shaun Braybrook  discuss the retirement planning considerations that you must take into account to live the life you wish to once you retire. Within their conversation, they cover: why the State Pension is unlikely to be enough; why you may need to plan for a longer retirement than you think; why your retirement plan is unique to you and must include lifestyle c...

In this episode,  Ian Robinson  talks through some of the topical financial news stories from the month. The stories discussed in this episode include: mortgage lenders beginning to reduce rates; the postmasters scandal; potential changes to Inheritance Tax; and optimism in the financial markets. This episode is hosted by  Josh Cushion . Visit our website for more content:  ⁠⁠⁠https://lffinancialp...

Join Director and Independent Financial Planner,  Neil Clarke , as he discusses the current and future state of the financial markets with Ed Park. The key topics include: – Inflationary drivers; – Interest rates;  – The likelihood of a recession; and – Why investors must consider the long-term. Ed is Chief Investment Officer at Brooks MacDonald, who are one of our trusted investment panel. To fin...

In this episode of In the know, Independent Financial Planner,  Jasmina Grabham , is joined by Gregor Sked (Royal London). Their conversation focuses on the importance of personal insurance protection and includes in depth discussions on: – Why you should consider these policies and when they are suitable; – The options available to you; – Misconceptions that may have stopped you in the...

In this episode, Paul Thurston (Head of Research and Projects) discusses ESG investments in depth with Tiziana Maida. Key themes from their conversation include: How ESG differs from ethical investing; The growth and future of the ESG investment market;  The investment options available to you; and How these options perform. Tiziana is Head of Research at IPS Capital, who are one of our trust...

Join Director and Independent Financial Planner, Neil Clarke , as he discusses the current and future state of the financial markets with Ed Park. Their discussion provides clarity on the fallout of the current geopolitical crisis, as well as insight concerning the potential direction of inflation and interest rates. Ed is Chief Investment Officer at Brooks MacDonald, who are one of our trusted in...

In this episode, Mark Brown  and Kerry Holmes discuss how involving your financial planner can benefit you when considering wealth transfers to younger generations. Throughout this conversation, they cover the key considerations, how to speak with younger generations about wealth transfers, as well as the why each of your professional advisers should work together. Visit our website for more...

In this episode, Mark Brown  and Sarah Maguire discuss why you may wish to transfer wealth (gift) to family and charitable causes you care about, whilst explaining how you may do so. Throughout the episode they discuss commonly recommended solutions and challenges that may need to be overcome. This discussion is the second of three instalments concerning Intergenerational Wealth Transfers. We...

Listen in as Mark Brown   and Neil Clarke discuss Intergenerational Wealth Transfers, the first of three informative conversations. In this episode, they provide an in depth background concerning Intergenerational Wealth and discuss why, due to rising estate values, it is becoming increasing important to plan ahead should you wish to support family or a charitable cause financially. Attention...

Listen in as Chartered Financial Planner, Nathan Munt , discusses Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) with Josh Dunstone. Josh is a Solicitor at Spire Solicitors , who are based in Norfolk. He specialises in later-life planning, including wills, LPAs and trusts. Their conversation focuses on the importance of LPAs, why it is important to put them in place early, as well as how they differ to Endurin...

Listen in as Director and Independent Financial Planner, Neil Clarke,  discusses the value of financial advice with Nathan Munt . Nathan is a Chartered Financial Planner at Lucas Fettes. Their conversation focuses on creating and sustaining strong relationships with their clients, why advice is important, as well as why some of the benefits of financial advice aren't necessarily financial. Vi...

Client vulnerability is an extremely sensitive area of client care and requires a careful and responsible approach. Join Managing Director, Mark Brown , as he discusses this area with David Mulholland. Their conversation covers the different types of client vulnerability and the issues with identifying them, as well as how each of our professions should be working with one another to create a suit...

Join Director and Independent Financial Planner, Neil Clarke , as he discusses the current and future state of the financial markets with Ed Park. This includes the outlook of the markets following Rishi Sunak's Spring Budget announcement. Ed is Chief Investment Officer at Brooks MacDonald, who are one of our trusted investment panel. To find out more about Brooks MacDonald, please visit their web...

In this episode, Director and Independent Financial Planner, Neil Clarke , discusses the due diligence solicitors must undertake when referring clients to a financial planner. This conversation covers several important points, all with the general theme of creating a suitable joined-up service for clients. For this discussion, Neil is joined by Dave Seager of SIFA Professional. To find out more ab...

Episode 9 – Ethical and sustainable investing As concern for the planet increases amongst the population, ethical and sustainable investing (ESG) has become increasingly popular.  We define ethical and sustainable investing as investing with a view to helping society, the climate, planet, and avoiding areas that can be considered unethical. It is important that you consider your ethical and s...

This episode is the seventh, and last, part of a series on our 7 Concepts of Financial Planning. The takeaway: Managing your finances, assets and financial planning is a continual process that takes into account changes in your life and the world around you. Ensure you undertake regular reviews of your financial planning arrangements and the organisation and performance of your assets to ensure th...

This episode is the sixth part of a series on our 7 Concepts of Financial Planning. The takeaway: How are your financial plans impacted by your premature demise or illness? You are at most risk during the period you are accumulating the level of assets you need to provide for the financial plans of you and your family. Join our Managing Director, Mark Brown , as he discusses this concept with Dire...

This episode is the fifth part of a series on our 7 Concepts of Financial Planning. The takeaway: In what form are the assets that make up your wealth held and does this reflect your needs, attitudes and preferences. How your assets are held and managed will determine the cost to you, the tax you pay, the level of risk/volatility you experience and the returns you achieve. Join our Managing Direct...