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For many people, creating a financial plan feels like a milestone moment. There’s a sense of relief once it’s done – a feeling that things are finally “sorted.”

But a financial plan isn’t a document you complete once and file away. It’s a living framework, designed to evolve as your life does. That’s why annual reviews matter so much – not because something has gone wrong, but because change is inevitable.

A yearly check-in is less about fixing mistakes and more about staying aligned.

Financial Planning Is Not One-and-Done

Life rarely stands still for twelve months at a time. Careers progress, families grow, priorities shift, and unexpected events happen – both good and challenging.

Even when nothing dramatic changes, subtle shifts add up:

• Income may increase or fluctuate

• Spending habits evolve

• Goals that once felt urgent may lose relevance

• New opportunities or concerns can emerge

An annual review ensures your financial plan still reflects your current reality, rather than a version of your life that no longer exists.

A Review Is About Awareness, Not Judgment

One of the biggest reasons people avoid reviewing their finances is fear: fear of not being “on track” or of confronting decisions they’d rather postpone.

But a financial review isn’t a test. It’s simply a moment of awareness.

A healthy annual check-in asks gentle, practical questions:

• Does this plan still suit how I live today?

• Have my priorities changed?

• Is my money supporting the life I want now, not just the one I planned for before?

There’s no failure in discovering something needs adjusting. In fact, that insight is the value of the review itself.

Small Adjustments Can Make a Big Difference

You don’t need to overhaul everything each year for a review to be worthwhile. Often, the most impactful changes are small:

• Increasing contributions after a pay rise

• Redirecting savings toward a new goal

• Adjusting risk levels as timeframes shorten

• Updating protection or estate planning as circumstances change

These incremental adjustments, made regularly, help prevent the need for drastic changes later on. Over time, they compound into greater clarity and confidence.

Staying Engaged Builds Confidence Over Time

Regular reviews create familiarity. And familiarity builds confidence.

When you check in with your finances each year, money becomes something you engage with, not something you avoid or worry about in the background. Decisions feel more intentional. Uncertainty feels more manageable.

Even during years when progress feels slower, staying engaged helps you recognise what is working and where patience is required.

An Invitation to Re-Engage

If it’s been a while since you last looked at your financial plan, that’s okay. There’s no penalty for stepping back, and no pressure to have everything perfectly aligned before you revisit it.

Think of an annual review as an invitation rather than an obligation. A chance to pause, reflect, and make sure your plan still supports you – where you are now and where you’re heading next.

Because financial planning isn’t about predicting the future with precision. It’s about staying responsive, informed, and supported as life unfolds.

Every new year brings a familiar pressure to “get finances sorted.” Budgets are overhauled, spending bans announced, and ambitious targets set – only for many of them to quietly fade by February.

But lasting financial progress rarely comes from dramatic resolutions. It comes from small, repeatable actions that compound over time. In 2026, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s intention.

Here are five financial habits worth building this year – practical, realistic steps that strengthen your money foundations without requiring a total lifestyle reset.

1. Give Every Pound a Purpose (Before You Spend It)

You don’t need an extreme budget to be intentional with money – you just need clarity.

One of the most powerful habits you can build is deciding where your money should go before it arrives. That might mean:

• Allocating money for essentials, savings, and enjoyment in advance

• Using a simple monthly spending plan rather than tracking every receipt

• Checking in weekly instead of obsessing daily

This habit isn’t about restriction; it’s about direction. When you know what your money is meant to do, guilt around spending fades – and saving becomes easier because it’s already accounted for.

Start small: At the beginning of each month, write down three priorities for your money. Let those guide your decisions.

2. Automate What You Want to Happen

Willpower is unreliable. Systems are not.

Automation is one of the most effective financial habits because it removes decision-making from the process entirely. When savings, investments, or bill payments happen automatically, consistency becomes effortless.

Consider automating:

• Monthly savings transfers

• Pension contributions or investments

• Overpayments toward debt (even small ones)

You don’t need large amounts for this habit to matter. A modest automated transfer done consistently over years often outperforms sporadic “big” efforts.

Start small: Set up one automated transfer, even £25, and treat it as non-negotiable.

3. Build a “Calm” Emergency Fund

Emergency funds are often framed as a safety net for major crises – but in reality, most financial stress comes from small surprises.

Car repairs. Higher energy bills. Last-minute travel. These moments derail progress when there’s no buffer.

Instead of aiming for an intimidating target, focus on building a fund that creates calm. Enough to handle life’s bumps without panic or debt.

This habit builds confidence as much as resilience. Knowing you can absorb the unexpected changes how you experience money day to day.

Start small: Aim for your first £500–£1,000 before worrying about bigger goals.

4. Review, Don’t React

Many financial decisions are made emotionally – especially during moments of stress, comparison, or urgency.

A powerful habit for 2026 is scheduling regular money check-ins before problems arise. These aren’t audits or judgment sessions. They’re simple reviews that help you stay aligned.

A monthly or quarterly review might include:

• Checking account balances

• Reviewing subscriptions

• Noticing spending patterns (without shame)

• Adjusting goals as life changes

This habit encourages curiosity instead of criticism. Over time, it helps you respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

Start small: Put a recurring 20-minute “money check-in” in your calendar.

5. Redefine What “Financial Success” Means to You

One of the most overlooked financial habits is mindset.

So many people chase goals they’ve inherited, higher income, bigger homes, constant upgrades, without stopping to ask whether those goals actually support the life they want.

In 2026, consider intentionally defining what financial success looks like for you. That might mean:

• Flexibility over luxury

• Peace of mind over maximum returns

• Time freedom over constant growth

When your goals are aligned with your values, financial habits become easier to maintain – because they’re meaningful, not just impressive.

Start small: Ask yourself: What would “enough” look like for me this year?

The Power of Small, Consistent Action

None of these habits require drastic change. That’s the point.

Financial progress is rarely the result of one big decision. It’s the accumulation of small, intentional choices made consistently – choices that compound quietly in the background.

As you move into 2026, aim to start strong, not extreme. Build habits you can sustain. Trust the process. And remember: the most powerful changes are often the least dramatic.

In recent months, there’s been a growing sense of unease among some investors around the pace of growth in the technology and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors. With headlines warning of an “AI bubble” and comparisons being made to the dot-com era, it’s entirely natural to feel concerned about what this might mean for your portfolio.

We’ve had a number of clients reach out to ask whether this surge in market enthusiasm is sustainable, and what they should be doing to protect their investments.

So, is this a bubble – or is it something else?

It’s true that parts of the market, particularly around AI and certain tech stocks, have seen rapid valuation increases. This is often driven by high expectations and excitement around future innovation. While this kind of momentum can create short-term volatility, it’s important to distinguish between speculation and long-term value.

Some companies are certainly riding the wave of AI hype without strong fundamentals to support their valuations. But others are well-established businesses that are generating real revenue and leading genuine technological advancement. The key is being able to tell the difference.

Putting short-term noise into perspective

Market cycles are normal. Periods of enthusiasm can be followed by corrections – but history shows us that staying invested through these cycles tends to reward disciplined investors over time. Reacting to speculation can often do more harm than good, especially if decisions are driven by fear rather than sound planning.

Rather than focusing on what might happen next week or next quarter, we encourage our clients to zoom out and look at the bigger picture. Investing should always be aligned with your long-term goals, not short-term headlines.

Planning with purpose

At Fogwill & Jones, we believe in building resilient, diversified portfolios that are designed to weather periods of uncertainty. If you’re worried about exposure to the tech sector or want to better understand how emerging trends like AI could impact your strategy, it’s a good time to revisit your plan.

More importantly, it’s a time to speak with someone who can help you cut through the noise, understand what’s really at play, and respond in a way that reflects your goals, not market speculation.

Let’s talk about what matters to you

If recent headlines have left you feeling uncertain about your investments or unsure how to respond, we’re here to help. Our advisers can offer calm, clear guidance tailored to your situation – helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

Book a conversation with one of our advisors today to discuss your concerns and explore how to stay on track, no matter what the markets are doing.

What was expected prior to the Budget?

Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her Autumn Budget on 26^th November 2025, and analysts expected it to be shaped by the country’s weak economic growth, a £20 billion + fiscal shortfall, and a rise in borrowing costs. The Chancellor had previously pledged not to increase Income Tax, National Insurance or VAT on working people, as was promised in the Labour Government’s election manifesto. The Budget was largely expected to focus on taxing wealth over income, tightening reliefs, and maintaining fiscal discipline amid slow growth and high debt. While the main taxes were likely to remain unchanged, the expectation was that wealthier households, property owners, and pension savers were set to face higher taxation following the Budget.

What changes did the Budget actually bring?

Well, as the Chancellor was guided by the fiscal rules requiring debt to fall as a share of GDP and for day-to-day spending to be funded by revenue by 2029-30, this constraint meant that she had to either cut spending or find new revenue sources. So, the way she has proposed to do this is as follows –

Income and Related Taxes

• Personal Allowances for Income Tax frozen for a further three years until 2031.
• National Insurance will be payable on salary sacrifice pension contributions over £2,000 per year, from April 2029.
• Income Tax on property income, savings income and dividend income will increase by 2% from April 2026.
• Voluntary Class 2 National Insurance Contributions for people living abroad abolished so they can’t build up a UK State Pension entitlement.

Pensions

• Introduced a new threshold of £2,000 that can be saved into a pension via salary sacrifice without National Insurance being payable. Any amount saved over this threshold via salary sacrifice will have the usual 8% rate applied for salaries under £50,270 and 2% on income above that. Comes into effect from April 2029.
• State Pension to increase by 4.1% in 2026 under the Triple Lock.

Property and Wealth

• The amount that can be saved into a Cash ISA has been reduced to £12,000 from £20,000 for people under the age of 65 (although the £8,000 difference can still be saved into a Stocks & Shares ISA), with over 65s retaining the full allowance from April 2026.
• Introduction of new High Value Council Tax Surcharge of £2,500 p.a. for properties worth over £2 million, rising to £7,500 p.a. for properties worth over £5 million.
• Introduced the ‘milkshake tax’. This is basically an end to the exemption that milk-based drinks have from the levy on sugary soft drinks. Thereby this will increase the cost of milkshakes through the levy now being applied.
• The investment limit for Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) companies will be increased to £10 million (£20 million for Knowledge Intensive Companies (KICs)) and the lifetime company investment limit will be increased to £24 million (£40 million for KICs). The gross assets test will increase to £30 million before share issue, and £35 million after, from April 2026. Alongside this, the VCT income tax relief will decrease to 20%.
• UK Listing Relief – transfers of a company’s securities will be subject to relief from the 0.5% Stamp Duty Reserve Tax charge for three years from the point the company lists on a UK regulated market.
• The £1 million allowance for the 100% rate of Inheritance Tax Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief will now be transferrable between spouses.
• Electric cars will be charged a ‘mileage tax’ at 3p per mile, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) will also be charged the tax at 1.5p per mile, both from 2028.
• The 5p Fuel Duty freeze will be extended until September 2026.
• Remote Gaming Duty paid on online casino betting will be increased from 21% to 40% from 2026. General Betting Duty will remain at 15% for other forms of sports betting, increasing to 25% from April 2027. Horse racing will not be subject to the increase.
• Regulated Rail Fares e.g. commuter season tickets will be frozen for 12 months.
• Average UK energy bill to be cut by £150 p.a. by reducing levies.
• Business rates will be reduced for 750,000 retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.
• The two-child benefit cap will be scrapped from April 2026.

Although these proposals have been officially laid out in the Autumn Budget by the Government and analysed and approved by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), it is worth noting that some of these proposals may not happen within the remainder of the term of the current Labour Government, or may be scrapped and ultimately not happen at all.

If you are worried about any of the above changes that are due to come in and if they will affect you in any way, then please seek financial advice. Here at Fogwill & Jones, our advisers are more than happy to talk you through the changes in more detail and offer you solutions to mitigate the effects of these changes on your personal finances.

The Chancellor is set to deliver the Autumn Budget on Wednesday 26 November 2025, and while the details remain under wraps for now, the broader economic and political backdrop gives us some indication of what might be on the table.

As always, this Budget is expected to serve two key purposes: a response to current economic challenges, and a statement of intent from the Government as it looks ahead to the coming year. This year’s announcements may also carry political weight, with potential measures designed to win favour with voters and reassure markets.

At Fogwill & Jones, we believe that understanding the lead-up to the Budget is just as important as the announcements themselves. The decisions made in November could impact everything from tax planning and retirement savings to business investment and estate succession strategies. Below, we offer a snapshot of the economic environment, a look back at recent policy changes, and a preview of what might be announced.

Economic Snapshot: Inflation, Interest Rates and Growth

Despite the Government’s ongoing efforts to bring inflation under control and stimulate economic growth, progress has been slow:

• Inflation remains above the Bank of England’s 2% target, though it has eased slightly compared to the peaks of 2023 and early 2024. Persistent inflation continues to place pressure on household budgets and affects real-term savings and investment returns.
• Interest rates have stayed higher for longer than many expected. While there have been calls to begin lowering the base rate to support economic activity, the Bank of England has remained cautious, wary of undermining progress on inflation.
• Economic growth has been subdued, with the UK economy narrowly avoiding recession earlier this year. Business investment, consumer confidence and productivity growth all remain below long-term averages.

This backdrop creates a tricky balancing act for the Chancellor: how to support growth and ease financial pressures without compromising fiscal discipline.

Key Areas to Watch in the Autumn Budget

While we can’t predict specifics, there are several areas where policy movement is possible – particularly in light of the Government’s wider strategic goals and the need to support key voter demographics.

Some areas to watch include:

1. Taxation and Allowances

The Chancellor may look to adjust personal tax thresholds or offer targeted tax reliefs. While sweeping cuts are unlikely given fiscal constraints, we could see smaller, symbolic changes to:

• National Insurance Contributions (NICs)

• Income Tax thresholds (particularly for basic and higher-rate bands)

• Savings allowances, such as ISAs or dividend tax thresholds

 

2. Support for Small Businesses

To encourage entrepreneurship and job creation, further measures aimed at supporting SMEs may be announced. This could include:

• Extensions or reforms to business rates relief

• Enhanced capital allowances

• Targeted grants or incentives for hiring and training

 

3. Housing and First-Time Buyers

With home ownership a perennial political focus, the Budget may include initiatives to help first-time buyers, such as:

• Stamp Duty adjustments

• New savings schemes or tax incentives

•Further investment in affordable housing supply

 

4. Pensions and Retirement Planning

Given the recent momentum around pensions reform, the Budget may include further detail on:

• The long-term framework for pensions tax relief

• Auto-enrolment thresholds and contribution levels

• The future of Lifetime ISAs and retirement savings incentives

 

A Quick Recap: Key Measures from the Recent Budgets

While we wait to see what’s new, it’s worth reflecting on several important measures announced in the Spring Budget 2025, which continue to shape financial planning strategies:

Pensions and Inheritance Tax (IHT)

One of the most significant changes in recent years was the formal abolition of the Lifetime Allowance (LTA) on pensions. While this was initially announced in 2023, it was confirmed and legislated in the 2024 Budget. This opens up greater opportunities for high earners and those approaching retirement, particularly in terms of estate planning and tax efficiency.

Additionally, new guidance clarified how pensions are treated for IHT purposes – reinforcing their value as a planning tool for passing on wealth.

Agricultural and Business Property Relief

For clients with farming or rural‑business interests, the Government has reaffirmed the role of Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) as key wealth‑preservation tools. That said, the Spring Statement 2025 confirmed that from 6 April 2026 the 100 % relief for qualifying assets will be limited to the first £1 million per person, and any excess will be subject to relief at 50 % (resulting in an effective IHT rate of 20 % on those assets)

Employer National Insurance Reductions

Employers benefitted from a modest reduction in NICs earlier this year. For small businesses, this offers a welcome saving and potential headroom to invest in staff or infrastructure.

Why It All Matters – and How We Can Help

The Autumn Budget may or may not deliver major headlines, but even smaller policy shifts can have a significant impact on your financial plans over time. Understanding what’s changing, and how to respond, is essential for protecting and growing your wealth in a fast-moving environment.

We’ll be publishing a clear, concise summary of the Autumn Budget shortly after the Chancellor speaks. Our goal is always to cut through the noise and highlight the areas that matter most to you – whether you’re planning for retirement, supporting your family, or managing a business.

In the meantime, if you have questions about any of the topics mentioned here, or if you’d like to review your financial strategy in advance of the Budget – our team of Advisers are more than happy to help.

Stay informed. Stay in control. And, as always, plan with confidence.

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is often misunderstood. Some assume they’ll be liable when they won’t be. Others overlook it entirely, or significantly underestimate what their estate might owe. This confusion is more than a technicality  –  it can affect how families plan, how wealth is passed on, and whether opportunities to protect a legacy are missed.

At Fogwill & Jones, we regularly speak with individuals and families who want to do the right thing for their loved ones, but feel uncertain about how IHT works  –  and whether it applies to them. That’s perfectly understandable. The rules can feel complex, and the impact of small decisions can be far-reaching.

But as recent research shows, the confusion is widespread, and even basic estimates are often inaccurate.

What the research tells us

Recent figures cited in FTAdviser (August 2025) reveal how poorly understood IHT remains among the public:

• Among respondents with estates worth £100,000, 42% believed there would be an IHT charge on their death. On average, they estimated a tax bill of over £35,000.

• For those with estates between £100,000 and £325,000, 55% believed IHT would apply to them. The average expected liability? £48,000.

• Even among those with larger estates  –  £325,001 to £750,000  –  48% admitted they had no idea how much tax might be payable. Those who did estimate thought they’d face an average IHT bill of £56,000.

These numbers highlight two core issues:

1. People are often mistaken about whether they’re liable. Many believe they’ll pay IHT when, under current thresholds, they likely wouldn’t.
2. Even those who are liable often miscalculate how much. Estimates vary significantly and are frequently disconnected from the reality of how IHT is calculated.

What’s behind the confusion?

There are a few reasons IHT is so frequently misunderstood:

• Thresholds and exemptions are not well known. For example, the current nil-rate band (£325,000) and residence nil-rate band (£175,000) can potentially shield up to £500,000 per person  –  or £1 million for a married couple  –  from IHT. But many people don’t know how these work, or whether they apply to them.

• Property values can tip estates into liability. With rising house prices, many people are unaware that their estate may have crossed the threshold  –  especially if they’ve owned property for many years.

• Assumptions are made without advice. Individuals often rely on hearsay, online articles, or generalised tools to estimate IHT, rather than seeking a calculation based on their specific circumstances.

The cost of misunderstanding

This lack of clarity can lead to two unhelpful outcomes:

• Missed planning opportunities. Without understanding whether IHT applies, or how much might be due, people often delay or avoid taking action that could reduce their liability  –  such as lifetime gifting, creating trusts, or making use of allowances.

• Unintended consequences for beneficiaries. If no planning is in place, families may face larger tax bills than necessary. In some cases, this might mean assets need to be sold quickly to cover the liability, which can add stress at an already emotional time.

Why tailored advice makes a difference

Inheritance Tax planning is not just about reducing a future tax bill  –  it’s about ensuring that your wealth is passed on according to your wishes, in the most efficient and thoughtful way possible.

At Fogwill & Jones, we help clients:

• Understand their likely IHT position, based on their full financial picture  –  including property, pensions, business assets, and investments.

• Make use of allowances and reliefs, such as the residence nil-rate band or Business Relief, where applicable.

• Develop a structured plan that protects their estate, supports their family, and aligns with their long-term goals.

• Avoid common pitfalls, such as inadvertently gifting assets in ways that don’t reduce the estate’s value for IHT purposes.

Our approach is always personal  –  because the right strategy depends not just on the numbers, but on your family structure, values, and vision for the future.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to have a multi-million-pound estate for IHT to matter. With property prices as they are, many families are closer to the threshold than they realise. But equally, many worry unnecessarily – assuming they’ll face a significant IHT bill, when in reality they may not.

The only way to gain real clarity is through a conversation tailored to you.

If you’re unsure where you stand with Inheritance Tax, or simply want to make sure your legacy is protected, we’re here to help. At Fogwill & Jones, we bring decades of experience, technical expertise, and a personal approach to every client relationship – helping you plan with confidence and peace of mind.

When people think about estate planning, the first thing that often comes to mind is tax. How much will be lost to Inheritance Tax? How can we preserve more of the estate for our loved ones?

These are important questions, and at Fogwill & Jones, we address them with clarity, care, and technical expertise. But true estate planning goes beyond tax efficiency. It’s about something far more personal: what kind of legacy you want to leave behind.

Your legacy isn’t just measured in pounds and pence. It’s shaped by your values, your relationships, and the impact you hope to make for generations to come.

More than a transfer of wealth

Of course, passing on wealth is part of the picture. But for many of our clients, estate planning is also a way to:

1. Support family in meaningful ways
2. Model good financial habits
3. Pass on values as well as valuables
4. Give to causes close to their hearts
5. Ensure harmony and clarity within the family

In short, it’s about creating a plan that reflects who you are and what matters to you.

Legacy values: what do you want to be remembered for?

This is a deeply personal question, and one we encourage our clients to explore. For some, legacy means providing financial security for children and grandchildren. For others, it’s about charitable giving, supporting education, or preserving family history.

Consider questions such as:

• What values do I want to pass on?

• What kind of impact do I hope my wealth will have?

• What conversations do I need to have with my family now, so they’re prepared later?

• What would make me feel proud and at peace about how I’ve structured my affairs?

These reflections form the foundation of a meaningful estate plan. And when paired with the right financial tools and advice, they can be translated into clear, confident action.

The role of family conversations

One of the most powerful -and often overlooked – aspects of legacy planning is communication. We know that talking about inheritance can feel uncomfortable. But silence can leave room for misunderstanding, conflict, or unspoken assumptions.

At Fogwill & Jones, we often support clients in preparing for, or even facilitating, family conversations around:

• What’s in the estate and how it will be distributed

• Why certain decisions have been made

• What responsibilities might come with an inheritance

• What the giver hopes the gift will enable or represent

These conversations don’t have to be formal or complex. But they do need to be thoughtful. In our experience, families who talk openly tend to avoid surprises – and are more likely to carry their loved one’s values forward.

Structuring your legacy with purpose

Once your intentions are clear, we can help shape them into a robust plan. This may include:

• Making or updating a will

• Creating trusts to support younger beneficiaries or protect assets

• Strategic gifting during your lifetime

• Charitable giving through legacies or donor-advised funds

• Clear documentation to avoid disputes or confusion later on

Just as important is reviewing your plans regularly, especially after key life events like a marriage, birth, sale of a business, or major financial shift.

Beyond financial security: leaving peace of mind

A well-thought-out estate plan is a gift in itself. It offers your family clarity, reduces the administrative burden during what may be an emotional time, and reinforces the values you’ve lived by.

At Fogwill & Jones, we see legacy planning as an act of care – a way to ensure your intentions are honoured, your wishes respected, and your loved ones supported. It’s not just about wealth transfer. It’s about leaving things better for the people and causes you care about most.

How we can help

Every family, every estate, and every intention is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand the whole picture – financial and personal – before offering advice.

If you’d like to begin shaping your legacy, or revisit plans already in place, we’re here to help. With expertise, sensitivity, and a clear process, we’ll support you in creating a plan that reflects your values and protects the future.

In recent years, a noticeable trend has emerged among high-net-worth individuals and family offices: a growing movement away from traditional public markets and towards private assets such as private equity, venture capital, and direct investments. This shift reflects both changing market dynamics and evolving investor priorities.

With the public markets offering fewer new listings and greater short-term volatility, many long-term investors are increasingly drawn to the potential for stronger returns, diversification, and influence that private markets can offer. But what’s behind this trend – and what does it mean for your own investment strategy?

Why Are Investors Looking Beyond the Stock Market?

Public markets have long been the cornerstone of investment portfolios, offering liquidity, transparency, and broad access. Yet for many wealthier investors, public equities no longer hold the same appeal they once did.

Several factors are driving the shift:

Fewer public listings:

Many fast-growing companies are choosing to stay private for longer. This means that by the time they do go public, much of the early-stage growth – and its associated returns – has already been captured.

Market volatility:

Geopolitical tension, interest rate uncertainty and inflation pressures have contributed to more volatile public market performance, making long-term planning more difficult.

Access to innovation:

Some of the most exciting developments in technology and sustainability – from artificial intelligence to clean energy – are happening in the private space. Investors who want early access to these trends increasingly need to look beyond the public stock exchange.

Opportunities in AI, Clean Energy, and Beyond

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a prime example of a sector where private investment is flourishing. From start-ups developing next-generation language models to businesses using AI to transform healthcare, logistics and finance, the real momentum is happening well before these companies reach the IPO stage.

Similarly, the renewable energy sector is seeing substantial private capital inflows, driven by global decarbonisation targets, government incentives, and technological innovation. Private infrastructure projects, battery storage developments and clean energy platforms are all examples of investments where private capital is leading the way.

By allocating capital to these kinds of ventures, investors can align their portfolios with long-term structural trends – and potentially gain exposure to returns not available in public markets.

What Are the Benefits of Private Market Investing?

For those with sufficient wealth, knowledge and access, private investments can provide a number of advantages:

Potential for higher returns:

Private equity, in particular, has historically outperformed public markets over longer time horizons, though it does carry higher risk.

Diversification:

Adding private assets to a traditional portfolio can reduce correlation and offer greater resilience in market downturns.

Control and influence:

Direct investments allow for a level of engagement not possible through public equities – something that can be especially appealing for family offices or entrepreneurial investors.

Access to early-stage innovation:

Investing in earlier funding rounds can offer access to disruptive ideas long before they become mainstream.

Important Considerations and Risks

Private market investments are not suitable for everyone. They tend to involve longer lock-in periods, less liquidity, and more complexity than traditional investments. Due diligence is critical, and the ability to assess risk – often with incomplete information – is essential.

It’s also important to recognise that not all private opportunities deliver outsized returns. Many ventures fail, and capital can be at risk for years before any outcome is known.

This is where experienced, objective advice plays a vital role. At Fogwill & Jones, we work with clients to assess whether private market exposure fits within their overall investment strategy, risk appetite and long-term goals.

What This Means for Your Financial Plan

The rise of private markets is not a passing trend – it’s a structural shift that is likely to reshape how many investors build and manage wealth. But the right approach depends on your individual circumstances.

For some, incorporating private equity or venture capital may enhance diversification and open up new opportunities. For others, focusing on traditional asset classes within a robust, tax-efficient framework may remain the most effective path forward.

The key is to ensure that every investment – public or private – is aligned with a clear strategy, and that it serves your broader life and financial objectives.

Final Thought

As the investment landscape evolves, so too must the strategies we use to preserve and grow wealth. Whether you’re considering your first private market allocation or simply want to understand your options, we’re here to help you navigate the possibilities with clarity, caution and confidence.

Let’s explore what’s right for you – now and in the years ahead.

As the UK’s tax environment continues to shift, staying informed is essential to making confident, forward-thinking financial decisions. Recent proposals around pension tax relief, inheritance tax (IHT), and other key areas may significantly influence how individuals and families approach long-term planning. While nothing is final until legislation is enacted, it’s wise to understand what’s on the horizon – and how best to prepare.

At Fogwill & Jones, we believe smart planning is about staying ahead of change, not reacting to it. Here’s what you need to know about potential tax changes, and how a well-structured financial plan can help you adapt with clarity and confidence.

1. Pension Tax Relief: Changes Could Be Ahead

The government is reportedly reviewing the current system of pension tax relief, with speculation around whether it may move towards a flat rate for all taxpayers. Currently, higher and additional-rate taxpayers benefit more generously, receiving tax relief at their marginal rate. A shift to a flat rate could reduce the incentive for some to save into pensions – but it could also improve fairness for lower earners.

What this means for you:

If you’re a higher-rate taxpayer, now may be a prudent time to review your pension contribution strategy. Maximising contributions while the current relief structure remains in place could enhance your retirement savings. For those earning close to key tax thresholds, especially the £100,000 mark where personal allowances taper, pension contributions can still serve as a powerful tool for reducing effective tax rates.

 

2. Inheritance Tax: A Changing Conversation

The Autumn Statement introduced proposals to adjust the scope of inheritance tax, particularly around the treatment of pension death benefits and business or agricultural property reliefs. While full details are pending, one significant proposal is that from April 2027, unspent pension pots may be counted within a person’s estate for IHT purposes. Historically, pensions have been a highly efficient vehicle for passing on wealth outside the IHT net.

What this means for you:

This change, if implemented, could shift how pensions are used in legacy planning. Reviewing your beneficiary nominations is now more important than ever. You may also wish to reconsider whether it is more tax-efficient to leave pensions to a spouse or civil partner, given their exemption from IHT.

Moreover, if you’ve previously relied on business or agricultural reliefs to manage IHT liability, these proposals may require a review of your estate plan to ensure it remains effective under future rules.

 

3. Annual Allowances: Use Them or Lose Them

In times of change, the fundamentals still matter. Making full use of annual tax allowances – including pensions, ISAs, and capital gains exemptions – remains one of the most consistent ways to reduce tax exposure.

With the capital gains tax (CGT) exemption now only £3,000 and further reductions being considered, reviewing any non-ISA investments becomes a more urgent task. Similarly, regular gifting and use of income exemptions within IHT can help reduce the future size of your estate.

What this means for you:

Efficient use of allowances is a key pillar of sound financial planning. These opportunities reset each tax year and can be lost if not used. For couples, combining allowances can create significant tax savings across income, gains, and inheritance.

 

4. The Value of Forward-Looking Advice

Tax rules will continue to evolve, often in unpredictable ways. That’s why we encourage clients not to anchor their decisions solely to what is, but also to what could be. Proactive planning ensures your finances are resilient in the face of change.

At Fogwill & Jones, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice. Whether you’re building wealth, preparing for retirement, or considering how to support the next generation, your strategy should reflect both current legislation and your long-term goals.

 

Key Actions to Consider:

• Review pension contributions and reliefs, particularly if you’re a higher or additional-rate taxpayer.
• Revisit your estate plan, with a specific focus on pension beneficiary nominations and IHT exposure.
• Use your annual allowances for ISAs, pensions, and capital gains before the tax year ends.
• Stay informed, but avoid knee-jerk reactions. Legislative proposals often take time to finalise.
• Seek professional advice to ensure your plan remains fit for purpose.

Final Thought

In an evolving landscape, the most valuable asset is not a product or a portfolio, but a plan – one that’s tailored, responsive, and underpinned by expert advice.

At Fogwill & Jones, we help clients move forward with clarity, not complexity. If you’re unsure how potential tax changes may affect your financial future, now is the right time to speak with us.

Let’s make sure your plan is working as hard as you are.

The information in this article is intended for guidance only and does not constitute personal advice. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may be subject to change. Please get in touch to chat with one of our qualified financial advisers before taking action.

Social media has transformed how we consume information. From the way we learn new skills to the products we buy, digital platforms have become part of everyday life. But when it comes to financial advice, the rise of online influencers raises important questions – and real concerns…

A recent article by Investment Week revealed that nearly 40% of UK investors have turned to social media platforms for financial advice in the past two years. YouTube and Facebook were the most commonly used platforms, with many also relying on influencers, search engine results, and even AI tools like ChatGPT.

We understand why people are drawn to content that feels quick, accessible, and relatable. But we also believe strongly that when it comes to your financial wellbeing, advice should come from a place of expertise, accountability, and personal understanding – not from someone looking to build a following.

Here’s why turning to professional, regulated advisers still matters – and why now, more than ever, it’s worth thinking twice before acting on something you saw in a viral video.

The Finfluencer Phenomenon: A Growing Trend

The term “finfluencer” refers to individuals on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube who share money-related content. They may talk about saving strategies, investing tips, crypto trends, or even early retirement hacks. Some are genuinely passionate about financial education – and some even have qualifications. But many do not.

According to research by Fidelity International, 12% of investors have acted on advice from influencers, and even more are turning to content from internet searches or AI. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has flagged serious concerns, noting that many of these sources are “unregulated and unverified”. Alarmingly, the FCA has already taken enforcement action against rogue influencers in the UK – with arrests made and criminal proceedings under way.

The risks here are not hypothetical. Taking advice from a stranger on social media – someone who doesn’t know your circumstances and is not held accountable for what they say – can have very real financial consequences.

When “Advice” Isn’t Advice At All

One of the key distinctions between an influencer and a professional financial adviser is regulation. At Fogwill & Jones, we’re authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This means we are legally obliged to give advice that is suitable for you, based on a detailed understanding of your circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance.

Influencers, by contrast, are not held to these standards. Most don’t know you, and they’re not required to consider your best interests. Many are paid to promote certain products or platforms, and those incentives aren’t always clear.

Your financial journey is unlike anyone else’s. Whether you’re building a career, supporting a family, preparing for retirement or planning your legacy, you deserve advice that is built around you – not around a generalised audience.

The danger here is subtle but serious. It’s not just about bad advice; it’s about advice that sounds good, feels intuitive, or seems to work for someone else – but could lead to real consequences for your finances if applied without context.

We work closely with our clients to shape a financial roadmap that reflects what matters most to them – whether that’s peace of mind, future security, or greater flexibility in later life.

Confidence, Not Clicks

At Fogwill & Jones, our goal is not to chase followers but to build long-term relationships. We want to equip you with clarity, insight, and confidence – so you can make informed decisions, protect what matters, and plan your future on solid ground.

Financial planning is about more than money. It’s about feeling secure, having choices, and knowing you’re prepared for what’s ahead – that’s not something you’ll find in a trending reel or a quick tip on your feed.

If you’re ready for advice that’s grounded in experience, tailored to your life, and built to last, we’re here to help.