Market Commentary – November 2014
Over the last month, we have continued to see a divergence in the pace of economic growth across different regions of the globe.
Autumn Statement – Stamp Duty Reforms and Tax
Reform of residential property stamp duty so that rates apply only to that part of the property price that falls within each band:
Autumn Statement – U-Turn on Trusts Taxation
The Government has confirmed that it has scrapped plans to introduce the Inheritance Tax (IHT) settlement Nil Rate Band and replace it with new rules to be announced in next week’s Finance Bill.
Autumn Statement – ISAs Inherited Tax-Free
Spouses and civil partners will be able to inherit their deceased partner’s ISAs and retain the tax advantages.
Autumn Statement – Pension Freedoms Confirmed
The Chancellor confirmed the new pension death benefit rules to be introduced in April 2015:
Autumn Statement – UK Economy
According to the Chancellor, George Osborne, the UK is the fastest growing economy in the G7.
Market Commentary – October 2014
A number of economic issues sparked a sharp sell-off in global equities between mid-September and mid-October, highlighted by a 7% fall in the MSCI World index.
European Central Bank steps up stimulus
Mario Draghi announced on 6 November that the ECB is prepared to inject 1tr euros to stimulate the eurozone in a bid to stave off deflation.
EU slashes eurozone economic forecasts
The European Commission cut its economic outlook for the eurozone on Tuesday, predicting it would grow only 1.1 per cent in 2015, down from a forecast of 1.7 per cent just six months ago.
Our Investment Commentary for Q3 2014 (1 July – 30 September)
Given that the third quarter of the year was a period plagued with geopolitical tension, the FTSE World index delivered a surprising gain of 2.7%.