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The latest IMF global economic outlook outlined annual growth of 3.1%, a reduction on January’s forecast of 3.3% Sir Keir Starmer confirmed the UK would not take part in enforcing the US military blockade of Iranian ports Last month, house sales activity weakened significantly due to geopolitical uncertainty and rising borrowing costs “A resilient world […]

Economic green shoots of spring?

Global growth is projected at 3.3% in 2026 amid cautious optimism Trade cooperation and AI investment are key economic drivers Policymakers must balance inflation control with long-term resilience After a long, cold winter, there are tentative signs that spring is arriving. With hope in the air – what lies ahead for the global economy? Uncertainty […]

Spring 2026: housing changes to keep in mind

Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions are ending in England Stamp Duty thresholds reverted in April 2025 Rent control and safety reforms expand across devolved nations As we move into spring, it’s a good time to reflect on the housing reforms introduced in 2025 and what they mean for renters and homebuyers across the UK. Stronger […]

Dividend outlook – growth expectations for 2026

UK dividends are projected to reach £88.8bn, up 1.5% year-on-year Underlying growth suggests resilience despite macroeconomic headwinds Global payouts are expected to rise 2.9% to $2.47trn Following growth of 1.3% in the fourth quarter and total headline payouts of £87.5bn in 2025, UK dividend expectations for the year ahead are positive, according to the latest […]

Are your family ready for the largest intergenerational transfer in history?

Up to 70% of family wealth can be lost by the second generation without structured planning IHT changes and pension reforms could accelerate gifting and estate restructuring decisions Open communication and professional guidance improve long-term wealth preservation outcomes The world is on the brink of an unprecedented transfer of wealth. A notable World Wealth Report¹, […]

Build momentum from day one – new tax year planning

Using your ISA allowance early increases potential tax-free growth opportunities Pension contributions attract relief and may reduce higher-rate tax exposure Early planning helps optimise capital gains and Inheritance Tax allowances A new tax year feels a bit like spring cleaning for your finances – a fresh start, new allowances and a chance to put good […]

News in Review

The latest figures from Nationwide show that UK house prices grew by an annual rise of 2.2% As the Middle East conflict strains the UK-US relationship, urgent plans are underway to strengthen EU economic ties An estimated 2.7 million workers received a pay rise last week, as the national minimum wage increased “Housing market activity […]

Economic Review March 2026

Office for Budget Responsibility warned the Middle East conflict will impact both global and UK economies significantly Last month, Bank of England policymakers unanimously voted to maintain interest rates at their current level of 3.75% Office for National Statistics figures indicate pay growth is slowest for five years and consumer confidence dipped Middle East conflict […]

News in Review

Latest data from the Office for National Statistics show the annual inflation rate remained at 3% since February 2025 According to recent forecasts, the UK could be among the hardest hit G7 country, due to global events Consumer attitudes about the general economic situation expectations for the year ahead dropped by six points to -37 […]

The surprising property premium of some floral addresses

Research shows that floral street names can significantly boost the value of a property The biggest premium was found on ‘Bellflower’ streets, where the median sale price increased 199% Property experts suggest that flower-inspired names evoke charm, calm and a sense of natural beauty As spring edges into view, new research1 suggests that a floral touch may do more than lift the […]