Market Overview Quarter 2 2025 (1 April – 30 June 2025) and Outlook
Markets rebound after Trump tariffs stun investors Investment markets experienced heightened volatility during the quarter following President Trump’s announcement of trade tariffs on 2 April which he called ‘Liberation Day’. Whilst Mr Trump had spoken of ‘tariffs’ being one of his favourite words in the English language during his presidential campaign, the size of the […]
The Trump Slump
We started 2025 with economists predicting a reasonable level of economic growth with inflation continuing on its downward path. This underpinned the view that interest rates would reduce further providing a favourable outlook for both equities and bonds. Stagflation This benign outlook has been turned upside down over the last couple of months culminating in […]
Market Overview Quarter 1 2025 (1 January – 31 March 2025) and Outlook
In the first quarter of 2025, the promise of a continuation of 2024’s strong gains, primarily driven by the strong US economy and markets, proved to be ill-founded. The expectation that Trump’s second term would see business-friendly policies of extending tax cuts and deregulation was undermined by his initial focus on more growth negative issues […]
Has the Positive Outlook for US Markets been Trumped?
After two consecutive years where portfolios have benefited from strong double digit returns in US equity markets, much of it underpinned by the performance of the global mega-cap technology stocks associated with the ubiquitous artificial intelligence (“AI”) theme, recent weeks have seen the American markets stumble. Initial reaction to Trump’s election in early November was […]
Market Overview Quarter 4 2024 (1 October – 31 December 2024) and Outlook 2025
Another Year of US Dominance Reminiscent of the start of 2023, there was broad concern that the US economy, a key driver of global growth, was weakening as we moved into 2024. With inflation heading in the right direction, markets were expecting the US Federal Reserve to prioritise its mandate of promoting full employment in […]
Seabrook Clark continues to grow in 2024
Seabrook Clark has enjoyed another busy and successful year in 2024. We are delighted that we have continued to make great progress with the business for the benefit of our clients. With regard to our team, we continued to expand filling The Greenkeepers Cottage, now a team of fifteen professionals. We welcomed Daniel as a […]
Important Reminder for Withdrawals: Plan Ahead for 31 January 2025 Tax Payments
As we approach the 31 January 2025 tax payment deadline, we would like to remind clients of the importance of planning in advance for any withdrawals needed from investment portfolios. While it may seem simple to request a withdrawal closer to the deadline, it is important to note that the process takes time. Trades need […]
Inheritance Tax on Pensions
The upcoming changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules on pensions in April 2027 will significantly impact how pensions are treated when passed on after death. Accordingly, we are pleased to identify some of the key issues to start considering so as to plan ahead: Current Rules on Pensions and IHT Changes from April 2027 The […]
How to Avoid Scams
Unfortunately, scams are very common. Accordingly, we are pleased to provide some general advice for how best to keep yourself safe in respect of activity online, by telephone or traditional post. We take your data protection as well as your financial affairs very seriously and make every effort to protect your best interests. To this […]
How to get a State Pension Forecast and Why it is important before 5 April 2025
The UK State Pension provides a valuable source of income in retirement, but the amount you receive depends on your National Insurance (NI) record. With key deadlines approaching, it is essential to understand your entitlements and take action if necessary. How Many NI Years Are Needed for the Full State Pension? To qualify for the […]