Welcome to our July/August 2024 Newsletter.

Nobody wants to consider what would happen if they became too ill to support their family financially. Financial protection is essential to creating a secure future for your loved ones, but understanding what cover you may need can be confusing.

On page 8, we discuss whether you have considered the implications financially if you or someone in your family were unable to earn money, became ill or were to die prematurely. It’s not something we like to think about, but if you have left regular employment and are now either retired or have become self-employed, then any previous protection you received from an employer becomes your responsibility. On page 05, we delve into a new analysis of FCA figures. Since 2015, individuals over the age of 55 with defined contribution (DC) pension pots have enjoyed full freedom to decide how to manage their pensions; purchasing an annuity (a guaranteed income for life) is no longer mandatory. We examine how people have utilised these newfound freedoms and the tax implications that have followed.

On page 10, we look at ways to potentially reduce a Capital Gains Tax (CGT) liability. Cuts to the CGT exemption mean that arranging your investments as tax-efficiently as possible is more important than ever.

Trusts are a powerful tool for estate planning, providing flexibility and control over asset distribution. Properly structured, they can address various scenarios and requirements, ensuring that your legacy is managed according to your wishes long into the future. Read the full article on page 06.

A complete list of the articles featured in this issue appears on pages 02​