From April 2015, People with defined contribution pension savings will no longer have to worry about their pension savings being taxed at 55% on death.
August saw an increased divergence between Japan and the Eurozone, and the US and UK. This will be reflected by the monetary policy stance of central banks in the coming months.
July marked the start of the third quarter of the year and, despite fears of an escalation in political tension, markets have remained very resilient. The FTSE All-World index has risen by approximately 1% this month and both US and UK markets have experienced modest growth.
Following a volatile first quarter of 2014, Q2 has offered a much more positive outlook, with the FTSE100 gaining 2.36% as opposed to contracting by 1.26% in the period January to March.
Throughout May, most asset classes experienced a welcome reduction in volatility.
An opportunity has arisen for an ambitious graduate to join Seabrook Clark as a Graduate Trainee Investment Manager.
April marked the start of the second quarter of 2014, however the sluggish performance of markets so far this year continued.
Following strong market returns in 2013, there was widespread optimism regarding market sentiment for 2014.
The end of the tax year offers a natural opportunity for individuals to take stock of their financial position and make plans for the coming years.
One way to improve tax efficiency is through careful planning and use of allowances.
The tax year end offers a good chance to review investments and conduct a spring clean of any portfolios with careful consideration placed upon the following points.
As with investments, it is important to review your pension contributions before the end of each tax year to ensure you make the most of your allowance.
