Investors should expect further volatility in the markets in 2023, experts suggest. Economies around the world are facing recession due to factors including high inflation and rising interest rates. The International Monetary Fund’s Kristalina Georgieva predicts that a third of the global economy will be in recession this year. The World Bank also has a similar outlook, as it cut its global growth forecast from 3% to 1.7% after risks identified six months ago materialised. Th

Given that energy prices have soared, it’s not surprising that energy efficiency measures have become essential to homeowners. However, a survey found some trends that you might not expect, and it could change how you view your property if you’re thinking about updating it. According to Halifax, almost half of homeowners want to make improvements to their property within the next few years. So, what should you focus on? According to 62% of people, a good Wi-Fi connection is

Over the last year, interest rates have increased from historic lows. Fixed-rate mortgage payers that have been shielded from the rises so far could find their outgoings rise if their deal ends in 2023. The Bank of England increased its base interest rate several times over the last 12 months to tackle high levels of inflation. For savers, it’s been good news, as interest rates on savings accounts have started to rise after more than a decade of being low. However, for borrow

You have until 5 April 2023 to make the most of your ISA allowance for the current tax year. If you want to boost your savings or investments, adding more to your ISA could make sense. For the 2022/23 tax year, you can add up to £20,000 to adult ISAs. The allowance is for each individual. So, if you’re planning with a partner, you should consider making use of both of your allowances. ISAs are a popular way to save and invest. According to government statistics, around 12 mil

When you think about retirement planning, what challenges come to mind? While ensuring you have enough saved and that you don’t run out of money are common concerns, there is one you may have overlooked: changing from a saving to a spending mindset. To secure your retirement, putting money away has likely become a habit that you’ve embraced for decades. Perhaps you contributed to a pension, made sure your mortgage was paid off, or invested with a long-term plan. These positiv

When you’re deciding how to pass on assets and who you want them to go to, understanding their value, and how this might change, is crucial. Last month, you read about why estate planning should be part of your overall financial and life plan. Now, read on to discover why getting to grips with what your estate covers is important. Essentially, your estate is everything you own when you pass away. This could be material items or assets like your investments or savings. As a re

Much of 2022 has been marked by investment volatility and economic uncertainty, and October was no different. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), there is a rising risk of a global recession. The organisation downgraded its global growth forecast for 2023 to 2.7%. It said financial instability was linked to shocks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and climate disasters. While uncertainty can be worrying as an investor, remember to focus on y

The “boomerang” trend isn’t new, but the soaring cost of living means that far more adult children that have been living independently are considering moving back to their childhood homes. As a parent, it’s natural to want to lend a helping hand, but you may also have concerns about what it would mean for you financially. In the 12 months to October 2022, the rate of inflation was 11.1%. It’s a rate that’s much higher than the Bank of England’s (BoE) 2% target. For many famil

The State Pension is set to increase by a record amount under the triple lock due to high levels of inflation. If you’re claiming your State Pension, read on to find out what it means for your income. While there had been speculation that the triple lock would be suspended this year, the Conservative Party under Liz Truss committed to maintaining it. However, new prime minister Rishi Sunak hasn’t commented on the triple lock yet. For pensioners, it’s an important way to maint

Retiring early is a dream for many. Whether you’re looking forward to putting your feet up or going on an adventure, it’s a huge milestone and it’s important to be financially prepared. Yet, research suggests that many people retiring earlier than expected don’t have their finances in order. According to research from LV=, 47% of retirees said they retired earlier than expected. Around a quarter said they retired at least five years earlier than they had planned. For 31%, the