Private Wealth Podcast

The most generous giving can also be the most strategic, but only if you understand the UK tax rules behind it. Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges, private wealth partners, discuss philanthropy from a private client perspective, focusing on how to give with clarity, avoid common traps, and build a plan that fits your wider wealth management and estate planning goals. This episode starts with Gift Aid...

Family investment companies (FICs), trusts and offshore bonds are three of the most common structures used in UK tax and wealth planning — but what do they actually mean for you and your family? In this episode, we break down how each structure works in practice, how they differ on control, tax, reporting and long term succession, and why the right choice depends on your goals rather than what’s c...

Your garage, loft or side table might be hiding a surprisingly tax-efficient asset. We sit down to unpack which personal possessions you can sell or give away in the UK without any tax implications. If you have assets such as art, collectables or classic cars, the difference between a clean gain and an unexpected tax charge often comes down to a few definitions and one or two easily missed rules....

There are a number of significant tax changes occurring in 2026, and to help you stay ahead, we breakdown the key dates and deadlines you need to be aware of, including the appropriate actions you should be taking before 5th April 2026. Our podcast episode explores: Dividend tax increases: Rates rise for basic and higher-rate taxpayers from April 2026. We discuss if bringing dividends forward is t...

In this episode, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges look at what really happens when HMRC opens an enquiry into your personal tax return.  They discuss: - What HMRC compliance checks actually involve - Why enquiries are triggered - What is the difference between aspect and full reviews - Understand what your rights and responsibilities look like in practice.  They also offer tips to avoid common mist...

With a mountain of speculation prior to this year’s Budget, there was considerable concern about potential forthcoming tax changes.  However, it could be said that the announcements made on 26 November were not as monumental as feared. Nonetheless, there was still plenty to dissect so join us in our latest podcast episode where we uncover what was announced by Rachel Reeves and consider how it wil...

Tax season can feel daunting – even for the most organised of taxpayers. While many returns are simple, certain sections quickly become complex, and small mistakes can lead to stress or even penalties. In our latest podcast episode, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges explore the trickier parts of a self‑assessment tax return and share practical strategies to help you stay confident and compliant. The...

In our latest episode, we explore the increasingly relevant topic of passing on property – whether it’s your main home, a share of it, or a second property – and the tax implications that come with it. Our hosts Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges discuss: - Why more families are considering property gifts - How rising house prices affect IHT exposure - Key thresholds like the nil-rate and residence n...

Thinking of retiring abroad? The latest changes to the UK’s non-dom rules might be surprisingly good news for your financial planning. In this eye-opening discussion, our expert panel breaks down how the shift from domicile to residence-based taxation creates new opportunities for those considering an international retirement. Tax partner Alex Britton-Davis joins hosts Leonora Stevens and Mike Hod...

The world of trusts often feels complex, but at its core it's about safeguarding assets for others. Whether you're considering setting up a trust, have been asked to serve as a trustee, or are evaluating your current arrangements, this discussion offers guidance on finding the right trustee for your specific needs. Hosts, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges, are joined by Philip Radford from...

A seismic shift is looming for pensions - from April 2027, pensions will fall into a person’s chargeable estate for inheritance tax (IHT) purposes. This means any pension pots could be subject to 40% IHT. For many years pensions were a useful way to reduce IHT liabilities, and while the legislation is pending, the changes from 2027 will mean that pensions will be treated like any other asset – pot...

Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) offer business owners a compelling exit strategy where they can transfer controlling interest in their company without paying any capital gains tax (CGT). Join Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges as they discuss this increasingly popular exit route, that is beneficial for both owners and employees. If you're considering an EOT, always seek professional advice tail...

The inheritance tax landscape for family businesses and agricultural landowners is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades.  Following the Autumn Budget 2024 announcements regarding changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), the government has released a consultation document addressing the application of these changes to property settled in...

Have you recently acquired a significant amount of money? Sudden wealth can be quite overwhelming. So how can you protect and manage your assets efficiently? Join Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges as they talk with legal expert Claire Harris, a Partner at Withers, and James Peterson, Managing Director at Rothschild & Co about the essential first steps and long-term strategies for managing a wind...

With major changes on the horizon for non-domiciled individuals, understanding the new tax landscape is essential. This episode dives deep into the upcoming tax reforms, exploring how these changes (effective from April 2025), will reshape the tax landscape for non-doms.  Hosts Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges are joined by Alex Britton-Davis, partner at Saffery and a leading expert in UK residency...

Family-owned businesses face unique complexities, such as issues related to business structure, family dynamics, and shared ownership. Following Rachel Reeves’ Budget, these businesses now face additional challenges in navigating the changes to inheritance tax (IHT) and Business Property Relief (BPR). In this episode, Leonora and Mike analyse the specific implications of the Budget changes for fam...

With the festive season of goodwill upon us, gift-giving may be higher on the agenda. But do you know how much tax you might owe on your generous gestures? In this episode, Leonora and Mike explore the tax considerations of gifting, whether it’s cash or assets. They break down the complex rules of capital gains tax (CGT) and inheritance tax (IHT), to help you understand your potential tax liabilit...

What if the latest tax reforms could change the way you plan for your family's future? Join us as we unravel the implications of Rachel Reeves' recent Budget announcements, where we tackle the significant reforms to inheritance tax, especially the tightened restrictions on Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR). With Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges lending...

Selling a business is a major decision that requires careful planning, as it could involve significant financial implications for the seller. In this episode, Leonora and Mike are joined by Jenny Serridge , a director in our corporate finance team, and Adam Kay , a partner in our transactions tax department. If you're thinking about selling your business, the team provide insights on the enti...

The summer months mark peak wedding season, yet amid the festivities, there are important tax considerations to keep in mind. In this episode, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges delve into the key tax points associated with weddings and civil partnerships, including: Gifting rules and how they apply to wedding gifts, The tax implications for individuals getting married, and The various tax benefits o...

Could incorporating your residential property portfolio save you thousands in taxes? Join us for an eye-opening discussion as Leonora Stephens from Bristol and Mike Hodges from Manchester delve into the ins and outs of property incorporation. We tackle why high tax rates on rental profits and capital gains often push property owners toward this strategy and uncover the nuanced benefits like lower...

Join us as we uncover the issues families are facing when looking to the future and ensuring the legacy of their family estate. With insights from Leonora Stevens, Mike Hodges, and special guest Peter Harker, we'll move beyond the typical tax talk and delve into the practicalities of succession planning. Discover strategies to manage farmland, residential properties, and natural capital proje...

A family office is a formal arrangement that involves a high-net-worth family being supported with a range of services, including legal, tax, accounting and concierge support. Whether or not you need a family office depends entirely on your financial, investment, and personal needs. In this episode, Leonora and Mike are joined by Alexandra Britton-Davis, a fellow partner at Saffery. As well as out...

In this episode, we cover the tax implications and practical considerations involved when purchasing large properties and landed estates. Leonora and Mike are joined by Elizabeth Hartless , a fellow partner at Saffery. As well as outlining top tax tips with respect to property renovations, other key areas discussed include: Funding and structuring, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), VAT considerations, T...

In this episode we examine the tax and practical aspects to consider when thinking about retirement. We discuss the importance of having a plan in place to ensure you are prepared and are able to achieve your personal objectives. Leonora and Mike specifically delve into areas including: Pensions, Cash and other assets (more information on gifting cash and property is available), Removing liquidity...