Welcome to our November 2023 edition of Wealth Matters, now available to view and download here.
As you sail into your 50s, it becomes pivotal to consider your financial strategy. Life has likely found a steady rhythm by now. Children have probably taken flight, becoming financially self-sufficient, and the idea of reducing work hours or even retiring completely starts to surface. Each person’s life journey is unique and has different resources and challenges. However, there are shared goals and steps that one can take during this stage. We consider how knowing where to begin can be daunting, whether you aim to maximise your earnings or lay down a robust financial plan.
In the investing world, the allure of quick profits and instant gratification often tempts some investors to employ a ‘market timing’ strategy. This method involves making decisions about buying or selling financial instruments based on predictions of future market price movements. Market timing is an active investment strategy aiming to beat the traditional buy-and-hold strategy. It involves moving in and out of the market or switching between asset classes based on predictive methods such as technical indicators or economic data.
The mantra ‘Cash is king’ has echoed through the investment world for years. Cash forms the backbone of our society. As long as money spins the globe, many will uphold cash as the reigning monarch. However, this crown has been slipping as of late. The culprit? Rampant inflation, rapidly eroding the purchasing power of cash. Even the most competitive rates on the high street typically lag behind inflation. We raise a question – is it wise to lock into a rate that incurs losses in real terms merely to avoid the short-term volatility of financial markets?
As we approach the end of the year, taxpayers should begin assessing their tax obligations. This is not a task to be left to the eleventh hour, especially considering tax changes coming into effect in 2024. This is also particularly true for 2023, a year already marked by several tax changes that impact higher rate taxpayers. By understanding your tax obligations early on, you could avoid unwelcome surprises. We consider how understanding these tax changes allows you to plan and strategise effectively to meet your tax obligations without unnecessary stress or last-minute surprises.
Taking more control of your financial future
With our help, you can develop and adapt a strategy designed to help you achieve your financial objectives. Your wealth should represent your values – how it might impact your family and benefit the causes you care about. Our role is to remove the effort from managing wealth, allowing you and your family to enjoy it instead. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you require further information or would like to arrange a meeting – please contact us.