Latest News and Updates

An escalation of the Israel-Gaza war into a broader conflict could deliver another shock to world growth and halt disinflationary forces in their tracks. Market reaction has been modest so far… but that could change.

The outbreak of military conflict in the Middle East may leave central bankers battling new inflationary trends as well as deal a blow to economic confidence at a time when they had expressed growing hope about containing the price surge sparked by the pandemic and Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Discover five practical and actionable tips to reduce inheritance tax and safeguard your assets. This article on estate planning will guide you on maximising what you leave for your beneficiaries, ensuring the long-term protection of your hard-earned wealth from the taxman.

Wealth Manager Richard Watson talks about the options you have for making sure that you are in the best possible position to retire from work… but not from life. Richard discusses adjusting your investment strategy from high-risk to lower-risk, the benefits of phased retirement, and how to leverage your state pension, ISA, and other allowances effectively for a secure future.

In a surprise move, UK interest rates have been left unchanged – but at 5.25%, they are still at their highest for 15 years. Price rises appear to be slowing faster than expected, but there are increasing signs that higher rates are starting to hurt the UK economy, according to the Bank of England.

Discover how we can support your business at every stage, from start to exit. Our expert team can provide advice on key man insurance, share protection agreements, EMI schemes, and company pension schemes. We'll ensure your finances are in order before and after selling your business, setting you up for your next venture or a comfortable retirement.

The financial markets remain focused on inflation and the labour market. But rising oil prices are also a factor in an increasingly complex equation. As the end of the UK’s current interest rate hike cycle comes into view, growth looks set to slow dramatically in China as its economic outlook worsens. Meanwhile, a new superpower is being born…

This week, Associate Investment Analyst Nick Harrington discusses the options we have for investing for positive change, and how we can align our investments with social and environmental causes – as well as securing returns.

This week our CIO looks at the aftermath of the Jackson Hole Symposium, such as the Fed's commitment to defeating inflation and maintaining pressure through interest rate hikes. He discusses the BRICS summit and the potential impact of its expansion. Investors should remain disciplined and patient, particularly as we head into September, which is a historically volatile month for the markets.

As China’s economy falters, inflation continues to trend down in the US and there are grounds for optimism on this side of the Atlantic. The UK economy grew faster than expected in the second quarter, and the recent pullback is the perfect buying opportunity for those investors who have been playing it safe up until now.

The UK may have the highest debt interest costs in the developed world. The Bank of Japan made a surprise decision on its bond market and yield curve control, and Germany heavily invests in the semiconductor industry. Overall, the markets are enjoying some stability at last.

Wealth Manager Jack Ingamells takes a look at wealth-building strategies for individuals at all stages of their careers, but especially for young people who are just beginning their professional lives. Consider sharing this guidance with your children to help them establish a strong financial foundation early on.

The US has successfully tamed inflation, unlike the Bank of England which faces the need for further interest rate hikes. The global economy undergoes a shift from a binary state to a more balanced one.

Property vs pensions, which is the better investment decision? Nick Rolf compares investing in property and pensions for retirement funding, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, including tax benefits, potential returns, and risk factors.

2023 has seen significant movement in global financial markets, with AI stock surges, a banking crisis, and relentless interest rate hikes leading to a rollercoaster ride for investors. IQ’s CIO provides a summary at the halfway point of the year.

Investment Analyst, Nick Harrington, explores the importance of choosing the right investment approach during market volatility for optimal returns.

The UK experiences rising interest rates, while the US takes a pause. UK households face increasing pressure as mortgage costs continue to rise. Eurozone recession worries loom while AI shapes Wall Street's potential bull market, offering opportunities and risks.

Unveiling budgeting and saving secrets amidst a cost-of-living crisis. Revolutionise your finances with these top apps and discover how to manage and invest your money with the latest fintech tools.

Wall Street thrills with record-breaking stock market gains, while China's economic recovery falters. Amidst the chaos, the tech sector stages a remarkable comeback, fuelled by AI advancements.

Nick Rolf discusses estate and legacy planning: from writing a will to setting up a trust to minimising inheritance tax, here are the building blocks of an efficient estate plan.

Wall Street, European, and Japanese stock markets are exceeding growth expectations, with the AI boom playing a significant role in Wall Street's remarkable resilience. UK April inflation has dropped to a single digit.

Wealth Manager Melissa Thorogood discusses the renewed popularity of annuities after some 14 years out in the retirement mix cold. Ongoing market volatility and rising interest rates mean that guaranteed income for life is worth considering again.

Financial markets have defied all odds over the first four months of the year, successfully withstanding interest rate hikes, stubbornly high inflation and a banking crisis in the US.

Looking to make the most of your inheritance money? Wealth Manager Jack shares his tips on how to reduce inheritance tax, pay off your debts, invest wisely, maximise your pension pot, and save for your future.

Geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington are threatening to derail the global recovery, despite encouraging inflation figures in the US. In the UK, meanwhile, inflation is proving somewhat more stubborn.

The FCA has announced a game-changing shift in the industry with its new Consumer Duty, and we're ready to embrace it. From communication procedures to staff training, we're determined to raise the bar and set a new standard for quality.

As the first quarter of 2023 draws to a close, it’s time to take stock of the markets and see if a strong technology sector has managed to offset the troubles that have hit the banking sector.

AI is revolutionising the workplace by automating mundane tasks and freeing up employees to focus on high-value work. And the exciting news is that AI is just getting started. Read this article to discover what transformative changes we can expect in the future.

FTSE 100 tumbled by more than 3% amid the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the acquisition of Credit Suisse by UBS. CIO Peter Lowman reassures investors that nerves are settling.

Nick Rolf discusses business financial planning in a volatile economic environment and shares his top tips for established business owners, as well as people setting up a business.