Author: Fogwill Jones

Navigating Market Fluctuations: How to Stay Focused on Your Long-Term Wealth Goals

In an age where headlines are delivered instantly and market updates arrive by the second, it’s easy for investors to feel overwhelmed by the noise. Whether it’s tariff negotiations, geopolitical tensions, or unexpected economic reports, short-term market disruptions can shake even the most seasoned investor’s confidence. 

Most recently, the announcement of the 2025 Trump tariffs – targeting key international goods – has reignited concerns about global trade tensions and their potential impact on markets. Investors saw an immediate reaction: stock market volatility, headlines forecasting economic slowdowns, and renewed anxiety about inflation. It’s a perfect example of how quickly sentiment can shift in response to a single event. 

But successful wealth building isn’t about chasing headlines or reacting to every twist and turn. It’s about staying disciplined, mentally grounded, and committed to your long-term goals – even when markets get turbulent. 

Understanding the Psychological Impact 

When events like the 2025 tariffs hit the news cycle, they often trigger a powerful emotional response. Fear and anxiety can dominate, and the urge to “just do something” can be overwhelming. This is a natural reaction – our instincts are wired to avoid perceived danger. In investing, that might mean pulling money out of the market at the first sign of trouble. 

However, acting on these impulses often leads to poor decision-making. Selling during a downturn and buying back after the market recovers is a costly pattern. It turns short-term volatility into long-term losses. 

Being aware of these psychological triggers is the first step in avoiding them. By understanding that these feelings are normal and common (and often counterproductive), you can train yourself to pause, reflect, and resist knee-jerk decisions. 

The Power of a Disciplined Plan 

At Fogwill and Jones, we believe that a well-constructed investment plan is your solution to maintaining focus on your long-term goals. Your strategy should be based on your unique goals, risk tolerance, time horizon, and financial situation – not the headlines of the day. 

 Sticking to this plan, even when markets get rocky, is often what separates successful investors from the rest. Historically, markets have proven resilient. They’ve weathered wars, recessions, trade disputes, and global pandemics – and still delivered long-term growth for patient investors. 

If your plan was designed to get you through a 20 or 30-year retirement, a single week or month of volatility shouldn’t prompt a radical shift. Staying focused on your goals allows you to rise above the noise and avoid unnecessary detours. 

Rebalancing vs. Reacting 

Of course, staying the course doesn’t mean standing still. There’s a big difference between reacting emotionally and rebalancing strategically. 

Rebalancing is a thoughtful, periodic adjustment to ensure your portfolio remains aligned with your original asset allocation. It might mean trimming positions that have grown disproportionately or reallocating based on a significant change in your financial goals. This is proactive, not reactive. 

Reacting, on the other hand, is often impulsive – like selling off stocks because of a news story or buying into a trending sector without considering your broader strategy. These types of decisions are driven by emotion, not logic, and can derail your long-term progress. 

When markets are volatile, that’s the perfect time to revisit your goals – not abandon them. Are your objectives still the same? Has your risk tolerance shifted? If not, your plan likely doesn’t need to change either. 

Final Thoughts: Trust the Process 

We understand that market swings can be unsettling. But as your wealth management partner, we’re here to help you maintain perspective and make decisions that serve your long-term interests. 

If you’re looking for a deeper dive into the 2025 Trump tariffs, we covered this in our recent blog post: A Tumultuous Start to Q2: Navigating Uncertainty in Global Markets – it’s a helpful complement to this broader discussion. 

At Fogwill and Jones, we don’t just manage portfolios – we guide investors through uncertainty with clarity and confidence. If recent headlines have made you question your financial path, let’s have a conversation. A moment of uncertainty is often the best time to reaffirm your strategy – not abandon it. 

 If you’d like some guidance on maintaining focus on your long-term goals or creating your own financial plan, call us today on 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk.  

A Tumultuous Start to Q2: Navigating Uncertainty in Global Markets

By the Investment Committee at Fogwill & Jones 

While this commentary includes insights from the first few weeks of the second quarter (beginning in April), the events that have unfolded since January 20th have been, at best, tumultuous. 

The global population was given early warning signs on January 20th. However, what transpired on April 2nd came as a complete surprise. Many countries had braced themselves for bad news around tariffs, yet the scale and swiftness of the measures announced by President Trump caught the world off guard. Few publications have taken an “I told you so” tone – because, in truth, the sheer magnitude of the percentage tariffs imposed, and the economic implications, stunned markets worldwide. 

Here at Fogwill & Jones, our Investment Committee is paying close attention to the potential long-term effects. One key concern is how these tariff policies could edge global economies toward recession. 

The path ahead will likely involve significant rebalancing in trade, particularly in exports and imports, if nations are to negotiate reduced tariffs. This will demand considerable diplomatic effort, arguably playing into the hands of the U.S. administration unless affected countries can secure alternative, tariff-free markets for their goods. 

The U.S.’s blunt and sweeping approach has, understandably and rightfully, unsettled global markets. Much of the world now faces an ambiguous economic landscape. Markets can digest good news, and even bad news, but what they struggle with most is uncertainty. And right now, uncertainty reigns. 

That said, we anticipate this uncertainty will gradually ease in the coming weeks and months. By summer, we expect markets to begin stabilising, giving global economies a chance to recalibrate and stay on course. 

As with many politically driven shocks to financial markets, this period of disruption also brings opportunity. It’s clear that some of Trump’s policy moves are strategically pro certain regions and anti others – though discerning the winners requires reading between the lines. While market recovery won’t begin until uncertainty recedes, our Investment Committee has already identified a few promising opportunities for the short to medium term. These would, of course, require extensive research and due diligence before being incorporated into portfolios. 

In summary, April 2nd delivered an unexpected jolt to the system. It’s essential for investors to remain aware of the heightened volatility in today’s market. While these conditions are unsettling, history suggests that this volatility should subside over the coming months. Patience and perspective are key – now is the time to hold steady and wait for recovery to unfold. 

Boost Your Retirement Pot: The Best Early Moves to Make this Tax Year if you’re Approaching Retirement

If you’re approaching retirement, now’s the time to make the most of the tax opportunities available to you. By taking proactive steps to optimise your savings, reduce your tax bill, and boost your retirement pot, you can make sure that the next chapter of your life is financially secure. The good news is that there are key actions you can take to enhance your retirement prospects – without waiting until you’re drawing from your pension.

At Fogwill & Jones, we help people like you make the best possible decisions to grow your wealth and minimise tax liabilities. Here’s how you can make early moves to get the most from your pension, ISAs, and tax strategies this tax year.

The Importance of Planning Ahead for Retirement

When you’re approaching retirement, you want your money to be working as hard as you’ve worked for it. Every decision you make in these final years before retirement can have a significant impact on the size of your retirement pot and the amount of tax you pay. It’s important to act now to take advantage of available allowances and avoid missing out on opportunities that can help you secure your financial future.

Key Strategies to Boost Your Retirement Savings

Maximise Your Pension Contributions

If you’re not already contributing the maximum allowable amount into your pension, now’s the time to review and boost your contributions. For the 2025/26 tax year, you can contribute up to £60,000 to your pension (or 100% of your earnings if lower) and benefit from tax relief on those contributions. By contributing more now, you’ll reduce your taxable income for the year, meaning you’ll pay less tax while boosting your pension savings.

This is particularly important if you’ve had years of lower contributions, or if you’ve recently experienced a pay rise or other windfall. With pension contributions, the more you put in, the more tax relief you can claim. The best part? The money you invest grows tax-free.

Consider Pension Carry Forward

If you haven’t fully used your annual pension allowance in the past three years, you could be eligible to “carry forward” unused allowances and top up your pension even further. This could be a great opportunity to accelerate your pension savings before you retire. Carry forward is a useful strategy to consider, especially if your income has fluctuated or if you’re in the final years of your career.

Maximise Your ISA Contributions

ISAs remain a powerful tax-efficient tool for retirement savings. For the 2025/26 tax year, you can contribute up to £20,000 across your ISAs, including cash ISAs, stocks and shares ISAs, and innovative finance ISAs. While you don’t get tax relief on contributions like with pensions, the key benefit of ISAs is that any growth or income earned within the account is free from tax.

If you’ve not maximised your ISA contributions yet, doing so now can give your retirement pot an immediate boost, while providing flexibility in how and when you access your savings during retirement.

Take Advantage of Tax-Loss Harvesting

If you’ve seen any investments in your portfolio underperform this year, tax-loss harvesting could be a way to reduce your tax bill. By selling off investments that have lost value, you can offset any gains you’ve made elsewhere in your portfolio, thereby reducing your capital gains tax liability. This strategy is particularly useful if you’re nearing retirement and want to ensure your investment portfolio is as tax-efficient as possible.

Review Your Investment Strategy

It’s also important to ensure your investments are well-positioned for retirement. As you approach retirement, your investment strategy should shift toward more secure, income-generating assets, such as bonds or dividend-paying stocks. If you’ve been following an aggressive growth strategy, now may be the time to review your asset allocation and adjust for a smoother transition into retirement.

Having a portfolio that aligns with your retirement timeline can help you preserve wealth and avoid taking on unnecessary risk in the final stretch before retirement.

Why You Need Expert Guidance

While the steps mentioned above may seem straightforward, it’s important to remember that personal finance is highly individual. Everyone’s situation is different, and the right strategy for you will depend on your unique circumstances including income, investment goals, and retirement timeline. This is where expert financial advice comes in.

At Fogwill & Jones, we work with you to develop a customised plan that maximises your savings, minimises your tax exposure, and gives you peace of mind as you head into retirement. Whether it’s advising on pension contributions, helping you use carry forward rules, or optimising your ISA strategy, our goal is to ensure that you’re taking full advantage of the current tax rules to achieve the best retirement outcome possible.

Take Action Now to Secure Your Future

The 2025/26 tax year is a crucial time to get your retirement savings in order, but the clock is ticking. Book a consultation with us today to review your current retirement plans, forecast your savings, and implement tax-efficient strategies that will help you make the most of the opportunities available to you.

Don’t wait until retirement is just around the corner to start planning. Taking action now can make all the difference to the size of your pension pot and your financial security in retirement.

Call us today on 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk to schedule your consultation. Let’s make the most of this tax year and ensure your retirement is everything you’ve worked for.

Your New Tax Year Checklist: How to Make the Most of Your Family Finances in 2025/26

As we enter the 2025/26 tax year, now is the perfect time to hit the reset button on your family’s financial planning. With new tax updates and allowances in play, it’s essential to start the year strong by reviewing key areas of your family finances. By taking the right steps early on, you can ensure that your financial strategy is optimised to take advantage of available tax breaks, reduce the impact of inflation, and work toward your long-term goals.

At Fogwill & Jones, we’re here to help guide you through the process, offering expert advice to ensure your family’s finances are on track. Here’s your 2025/26 tax year checklist to get you started:

2025/26 Tax Year Checklist:

  1. Check Your Tax Allowances and Make the Most of Them

The start of the new tax year is the ideal time to review your available tax allowances. These can help reduce your taxable income, saving you money in the long run. Key allowances to check:

• Personal Allowance: Ensure that you’re maximising your personal tax-free allowance (£12,570 for most taxpayers). If your income is close to this threshold, consider ways to reduce your taxable income, such as contributing more to pensions or using other allowances.

• Marriage Allowance: If you’re married or in a civil partnership, and one of you earns below the personal allowance, you may be eligible for the marriage allowance. This can allow you to transfer a portion of your unused allowance to your partner, lowering your overall tax bill.

• Capital Gains Tax Allowance: If you’re selling investments or assets, make sure you’re aware of your annual Capital Gains Tax allowance. It’s a good idea to review your investments to ensure you’re not overlooking tax-efficient options like ISAs or pension contributions.

  1. ISA Opportunities: Maximise Your Contributions

ISAs continue to be one of the best ways to grow your wealth in a tax-efficient manner. For the 2025/26 tax year, you can contribute up to £20,000 across your ISAs, including Cash ISAs, Stocks and Shares ISAs, and Innovative Finance ISAs.

For families, it’s worth considering:

• Junior ISAs: If you’re saving for your children’s future, now’s a great time to make use of Junior ISAs. The annual contribution limit for Junior ISAs is £9,000. This is an excellent way to give your children a head start in life while taking advantage of tax-free growth.•

• Stocks and Shares ISAs: If you have a longer investment horizon and are comfortable with some market risk, consider using your ISA allowance for stocks and shares. The growth from these investments is free from tax, making them an effective tool for growing your wealth over time.

  1. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Childcare

If you have children under the age of 12 (or 17 for children with disabilities), the Tax-Free Childcare scheme can save your family money. For every £8 you pay into your childcare account, the government will add £2, up to a maximum of £2,000 per child per year.

If you’re not already enrolled in the scheme, now’s the time to apply. If you’re already using it, make sure that your account is updated and you’re fully utilising the allowance. With rising childcare costs, this can make a significant difference to your family budget.

  1. Review Your Family Budget Against Inflation

The cost of living continues to rise, and inflation remains a key consideration for families. It’s important to review your family budget and make adjustments where necessary to ensure you’re staying on track. This includes:

• Revisiting Spending Habits: With rising prices, some expenses may have increased without you noticing. Take time to reassess your household spending and identify areas where you can cut back or be more efficient.

• Energy and Utility Costs: Rising energy prices are still a concern for many households. Review your energy plans and see if there are more cost-effective options available. Additionally, check if your home qualifies for any green energy incentives or rebates.

• Food and Essentials: Inflation has hit grocery bills hard. Plan ahead by shopping smart and considering options like bulk buying or meal planning to reduce costs.

  1. Goal Setting and Planning for the Future

The new tax year is also a great time to revisit your family’s financial goals and make sure you’re on track. Whether it’s saving for a holiday, your children’s education, or buying a new home, setting clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated. Consider the following:

• Short-Term Goals: These might include saving for a large purchase, building an emergency fund, or paying down high-interest debt.

• Medium-Term Goals: These could involve funding your children’s education or saving for a significant home renovation project.

• Long-Term Goals: Retirement planning, investing in your pension, and providing for your family’s future.

Use these goals to guide your family’s financial decisions throughout the year and make sure that you’re prioritising what matters most to you.

  1. Review Your Insurance Coverage

As your family grows and changes, it’s important to ensure that your insurance coverage reflects your current situation. This includes life insurance, health insurance, and income protection. Reviewing these policies annually ensures that you’re fully protected and that your beneficiaries are properly accounted for.

Why Expert Guidance Makes All the Difference

While the above checklist gives you a solid starting point, navigating family finances can be complex. Tax laws, allowances, and financial strategies are always evolving, and it’s important to get personalised advice that aligns with your personal financial situation.

At Fogwill & Jones, we offer expert financial planning services to help you optimise your family’s finances for the year ahead. From tax-efficient savings strategies to smart budgeting and goal-setting, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Get Started?

The new tax year is a great time to take charge of your family’s financial future. Don’t wait to start making these important changes. Book a consultation with us today to ensure your family’s finances are working as hard as you do.

Call us at 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk to schedule a review and get expert advice on how to make the most of the 2025/26 tax year.

Let’s optimise your family’s finances together.

How Can Your Pension Help You Now? Unlocking the Benefits of a Personal Pension

When we think about pensions, we often picture something distant – funds locked away until retirement. But what if your pension could offer financial advantages today, not just decades down the line?

A Personal Pension is more than just a retirement fund. It’s a flexible, tax-efficient investment vehicle that can support your financial goals before you even consider retiring. The sooner you start thinking about your pension, the more opportunities arise – not just for your future self but for your current financial well-being.

At Fogwill and Jones, we help individuals like you make the most of their pension savings today while planning for a secure tomorrow.

What is a Personal Pension?

A Personal Pension is a type of pension that gives you greater control over how your retirement savings are invested. Unlike standard workplace pensions, a Personal Pension allows you to choose from a broad range of investments, including stocks, bonds, funds, and even commercial property.

The key advantage? Flexibility – you can adapt your investments to suit your financial strategy.

How Can a Personal Pension Benefit You Now?

  1. Tax Relief – An Immediate Boost to Your Savings

One of the biggest benefits of contributing to a Personal Pension is the generous tax relief offered by the government. Every time you add money to your pension, HMRC boosts your contributions:

• Basic rate taxpayers: For every £80 you contribute, the government adds £20 (effectively a 25% boost).

• Higher rate taxpayers: You can claim back an additional 20% through your tax return.

• Additional rate taxpayers: You can claim back up to 25% more, making your pension an incredibly tax-efficient way to save.

This means that by using a Personal Pension strategically, you can reduce your tax bill while increasing your long-term savings.

  1. A Personal Pension Can Support Your Investment Strategy

With a Personal Pension, you’re not tied to a limited set of investment options. Instead, you can:

• Diversify your portfolio across different sectors and geographical regions.

• Invest in high-growth assets with long-term potential.

• Adjust your investment strategy as your career and financial goals evolve.

For working accumulators, this level of control means your pension isn’t just a passive savings pot – it’s an active part of your wealth-building strategy.

  1. Early Access – A Flexible Retirement Approach

While your Personal Pension is primarily for retirement, you don’t have to wait until your 60s to benefit from it. From age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), you can start withdrawing from your pension – tax-free on the first 25%.

This flexibility opens up opportunities such as:

• Paying off your mortgage or clearing debts.

• Reducing your working hours and transitioning into semi-retirement.

• Investing in other wealth-building opportunities.

Thinking ahead means you won’t be forced to work longer than necessary – you’ll have the option to access your pension on your own terms.

  1. Pensions as a Family Wealth Tool

Unlike many other investments, a Personal Pension can be passed down tax-efficiently. This means that instead of being hit with hefty inheritance tax bills, your pension could become a valuable financial asset for your family.

With the right planning, your pension can:

• Support your loved ones in the future.

• Be used as an estate planning tool.*

• Ensure your wealth is preserved across generations.

 

The Sooner You Start, the More Options You Have

Many people don’t realise just how powerful a pension can be before retirement. By thinking strategically and acting early, you can:

• Reduce your tax bill

• Grow your investments on your own terms

• Ensure financial flexibility for future life changes

• Retire when you want – not when you have to

How We Can Help

At Fogwill and Jones, we specialise in helping professionals and business owners maximise their pensions as part of a wider financial strategy. We offer:

• Personalised investment guidance.

• Tax-efficient pension planning tailored to your income.

• A long-term strategy that balances today’s needs with tomorrow’s goals.

Your pension isn’t just for retirement – it’s a financial tool you can use today. Let’s make it work for you, call us on 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk to book a consultation and learn more about how we can help you to start planning smarter.

*Disclaimer: From April 2027, under the new inheritance tax rules, pensions will form part of a person’s estate upon death and will be subject to inheritance tax.

Why Geographical and Sector-Specific Research Matters in Investing

For those approaching retirement, ensuring your investments are working as hard as you’ve worked is crucial. The right investment strategy isn’t just about choosing the biggest brands or the most popular sectors – it’s about understanding where and how your money is being invested. This is where geographical and sector-specific research becomes invaluable.

At Fogwill and Jones, we specialise in helping you make informed investment decisions that align with your long-term financial goals. By leveraging in-depth research into different regions and industries, we ensure your portfolio is positioned for sustainable growth and stability.

Why Research Matters in Investment Decisions

Markets don’t move in unison. Different regions and sectors perform differently depending on economic cycles, policy changes, and global events. Without a well-researched approach, investors may expose themselves to unnecessary risks or miss out on lucrative opportunities.

Key Benefits of Geographical and Sector-Specific Research

  1. Diversification for Risk Management Investing across various regions and industries reduces the risk associated with market downturns. For instance, if one sector underperforms, another may outperform, balancing overall returns.
  2. Capitalising on Growth Opportunities Emerging markets or booming sectors can offer higher returns than more mature markets. By understanding where growth is likely to occur, investors can benefit from early positioning.
  3. Mitigating Economic and Political Risks Global markets are influenced by factors such as interest rates, inflation, and government policies. Thorough research ensures that your investments aren’t overly exposed to unstable regions or volatile industries.
  4. Adapting to Market Trends The investment landscape is constantly evolving. From advancements in technology to shifts in consumer demand, sector-specific research helps investors stay ahead of market trends and adjust their portfolios accordingly.

Example:

Imagine an investor focusing solely on UK-based companies in the retail sector. If economic downturns or policy changes negatively impact consumer spending, their entire portfolio could suffer. However, by diversifying into sectors like healthcare or technology, and spreading investments across stable international markets, they could balance potential losses.

Why You Need an Expert

Conducting this level of research requires time, expertise, and access to the right data. At Fogwill and Jones, we take a meticulous approach to investment research, ensuring your portfolio is optimised for both growth and security. We analyse global trends, assess economic conditions, and identify the strongest sectors to help you make informed decisions.

Plan for a Secure Retirement

As you approach retirement, securing your wealth and ensuring long-term financial stability is paramount. Don’t leave your investments to chance – work with experts who can provide the insights and strategies needed to maximise your returns.

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help tailor your investment strategy to your specific goals. Call us on 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk to book a consultation.

Secure your future with confidence – let’s make your investments work smarter for you.

Meet the Team: A Conversation with Robert Wilkinson

At Fogwill & Jones, we believe that great financial advice starts with great people. Our team of dedicated experts isn’t just here to offer guidance – they’re passionate about helping clients secure their financial futures with clarity and confidence.

To give you a closer look at the people behind the advice, we sat down with Robert, our Independent Financial Adviser, to learn more about his journey into wealth management, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and the financial wisdom he wishes more people knew. Of course, we also got to know a bit more about him on a personal level – like his favourite book, his dream dinner guest, and, perhaps most importantly, his go-to biscuit!

What’s your favourite biscuit?

I love a Bourbon biscuit!

If you weren’t a financial advisor, what career would you have pursued?

In a previous life, I was a deputy manager at a chain restaurant, so might still have been in that sector.

What’s your favourite book?

My favourite book is The Silmarillion by Tolkien.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Probably Churchill, he had such a fascinating life and lived and worked at the forefront of tremendous changes in British society

What inspired you to become a financial advisor?

I was dating a girl who worked as an insurance underwriter, and had a very nice 9 -5 lifestyle, while I was working all the hours god sent in the restaurant for not very much money and I decided I would try something similar (the relationship never worked out)

How long have you been in the wealth management industry?

I have been working in financial service 10 years, I spent about 8 years with Skipton Building Society and worked my way up from the counter and advised for them for 3 years, then I spent nearly 2 years working for Tenet before they went bust, and have been at F&J since July last year.

What’s your favourite part of helping clients with their finances?

I enjoy helping people to fully understand their investments, I find often clients have not been fully educated about their holdings, or do not really understand how and why things work the way they do, and I always get a thrill when a client says they feel much more informed about what we have been discussing.

What’s one piece of financial advice you wish more people knew?

One piece of advice I wish more people knew was how important it is to consider true long-term planning, people by their nature tend to live for today, or focus on very short-term results and struggle to step back and consider the big picture.

What are the biggest mistakes people make when managing their wealth?

Similar to the above, the biggest mistake people tend to make when managing their wealth is getting hung up on short-term results such as a dip in performance and then pull money out or de-risk the holdings at an inopportune time, and are then further disappointed when the holdings struggle to recover afterwards.

What’s your top tip for someone looking to build long-term financial security?

My top tip for someone looking to build long-term financial security is to regularly review pension pots, and take advantage of employer matching on contributions – if it is available at a higher than default level you should strongly consider doing it.

Final Thoughts

At Fogwill & Jones, we know that financial planning is about more than just numbers – it’s about trust, understanding, and building a secure future. Robert’s passion for helping clients navigate their financial journeys shines through in everything he does, whether it’s simplifying complex wealth management strategies or ensuring clients feel confident about their investments.

Getting to know the people behind the advice is just as important as the advice itself, and we hope this conversation has given you a glimpse into the expertise, experience, and personality that make Robert such a valuable part of our team.

If you’re looking for tailored financial advice or simply want to have a chat about your long-term plans, Robert and the rest of our team at Fogwill & Jones are always here to help. Feel free to reach out – we’d love to hear from you!

Preparing for Retirement: The Importance of Planning for the Next 10 Years

Retirement is a pivotal milestone in life, yet it’s often surrounded by uncertainty. How much should you save? Will your investments last? Are you prepared for changing financial landscapes? These are critical questions, especially as you approach the final decade before retirement. Proactive planning now can make the difference between financial security and unexpected shortfalls later.

At Fogwill & Jones, we help individuals and families build tailored retirement strategies, ensuring they are ready for life’s next chapter. With the right preparation, the next 10 years can be the foundation of a comfortable, worry-free retirement.

Why the Next 10 Years Matter

Time to Build and Adjust:

While retirement may seem like it’s fast approaching, a decade provides ample opportunity to solidify your plans, optimise investments, and address gaps. By taking action now, you can set yourself up for a secure future.

Changing Economic Realities:

Inflation, interest rates, and market trends can all impact retirement savings. A plan you felt confident in five years ago may no longer provide the security you need. Regular reviews and adjustments are crucial during this time.

Health and Lifestyle Considerations:

Your retirement isn’t just about finances – it’s about how you want to live. Will you travel, downsize, or take on part-time work? Clear goals help ensure your financial strategy aligns with your desired lifestyle.

Steps to Prepare for Retirement

  1. Evaluate Your Current Savings

Take stock of your existing retirement accounts, investments, and other assets. Are you on track to meet your goals? Tools like retirement calculators or a financial advisor can help clarify your position.

  1. Maximise Contributions

In the years leading up to retirement, tax-advantaged accounts like pensions or ISAs can be your best friends. Take advantage of catch-up contributions and maximise your annual allowances to boost your savings.

  1. Review Your Investment Strategy

As retirement nears, it’s essential to balance growth and security in your portfolio. Younger investors may lean towards equities, but the focus should shift towards stability as you approach retirement.

  1. Plan for Healthcare

Healthcare costs are one of the largest expenses in retirement. Understanding your coverage and setting aside funds will ensure you’re prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

  1. Test Your Plan

Simulate your retirement budget by living on your anticipated income for a few months. This practice can reveal gaps or areas for improvement, giving you time to adjust before retirement becomes a reality.

How We Can Help

At Fogwill & Jones, we specialise in guiding clients through retirement planning, providing expert advice tailored to your individual needs. Here’s how we can assist:

Personalised Retirement Planning: We work with you to create a detailed roadmap, addressing everything from income sources to lifestyle aspirations.

Investment Optimisation: Our advisors ensure your portfolio is diversified and aligned with your evolving risk tolerance and goals.

Tax Efficiency: We identify strategies to minimise tax liabilities, allowing you to maximise your retirement income.

Adapting to Life Changes: Whether you’re considering early retirement or need to reassess your timeline, we help you stay flexible.

Comprehensive Reviews: Regular check-ins ensure your plan remains resilient amidst changing markets and personal circumstances.

Case Study: Preparing John and Sarah for a Comfortable Retirement

John and Sarah, both in their mid-50s, came to us feeling uncertain about their retirement plans. Their goals included downsizing their home, funding travel, and ensuring they had enough for healthcare.

After assessing their situation, we implemented key changes:

Increased Contributions: By maximising their pension contributions, we boosted their retirement savings.

Portfolio Adjustments: Their investments were rebalanced to include lower-risk assets while maintaining potential for moderate growth.

Tax Optimisation: We utilised tax-efficient vehicles to shield their savings from unnecessary liabilities.

Now, John and Sarah feel confident in their ability to retire comfortably, with a clear plan to enjoy their golden years.

Don’t Leave Retirement to Chance

Retirement planning is about more than numbers – it’s about preparing for the life you want. At Fogwill & Jones, we’re here to help you navigate every step of the journey.

Contact us today on 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk to schedule a consultation. Together, we can build a strategy that ensures your retirement is as rewarding as you’ve always envisioned.

AI and Robo-Advice in Investing: Convenience or Compromise?

The rise of AI and robo-advice has dramatically changed the world of investing. These technologies offer convenience, speed, and accessibility, making them an appealing choice for investors looking to build wealth with minimal effort. But while AI-driven tools can be a valuable part of the investment process, they may not always provide the depth, nuance, and personalised guidance that a human advisor can offer.

At Fogwill & Jones, we embrace the benefits of technological advancements while recognising the irreplaceable value of personal relationships. Here, we explore the strengths and limitations of AI and robo-advice, and why expert human advisors remain essential in building and managing wealth effectively.

The Appeal of AI and Robo-Advisors

AI and robo-advisors have gained popularity for several reasons, particularly among tech-savvy and cost-conscious investors. Here’s what they bring to the table:

  1. Accessibility: Robo-advisors offer entry-level investment options with low minimum balances, making investing more accessible for beginners.
  2. Automation: From portfolio rebalancing to tax-loss harvesting, robo-advisors automate tasks that would traditionally require time and expertise.
  3. Cost-Effectiveness: With lower fees than traditional advisory services, robo-advisors are attractive for those seeking affordable investment solutions.
  4. 24/7 Availability: AI tools operate without time constraints, offering round-the-clock support for account management and queries.

For investors with straightforward goals, these advantages can be appealing. However, when it comes to more complex financial needs, AI has its limitations.

The Limitations of AI in Wealth Management

While AI and robo-advisors are advancing rapidly, there are critical aspects of wealth management where they fall short.

  1. Understanding the Bigger Picture: AI excels at analysing data but struggles to comprehend the unique complexities of human lives. Your financial goals, values, and long-term aspirations require a nuanced understanding that only a human advisor can provide.
  2. Adapting to Life Changes: Major life events, such as career transitions, inheritance, or planning for a child’s education, require adjustments to your financial strategy. AI tools may lack the intuition to address these changes effectively or proactively.
  3. Emotional Support: Investing isn’t purely rational. During market downturns, human advisors offer reassurance, helping clients avoid knee-jerk reactions and maintain long-term strategies. Robo-advisors, on the other hand, provide data but no empathy.
  4. Customisation Beyond Algorithms: Robo-advisors follow predefined algorithms, which can lead to cookie-cutter solutions. Human advisors are able to craft tailored strategies that account for intricate tax situations, estate planning, and intergenerational wealth transfer.
  5. Trust and Relationships: Wealth management isn’t just about returns, it’s about trust. A human advisor builds a relationship with you over time, providing personalised advice that evolves with your life.

Why Human Expertise Matters

We recognise the benefits of technology and incorporate AI tools to enhance our services at Fogwill & Jones. However, we firmly believe that human expertise is irreplaceable when it comes to achieving your financial goals. Here’s why:

  1. Bespoke Financial Strategies: We take the time to understand your individual circumstances, crafting strategies that align with your lifestyle, goals, and values.
  2. Proactive Advice: Our advisors monitor your portfolio and adapt it to evolving market conditions, tax laws, and personal circumstances, ensuring your plan remains relevant and effective.
  3. Holistic Approach: Beyond investments, we consider your entire financial landscape, from retirement planning to legacy building, ensuring your wealth works for every aspect of your life.
  4. Human Insight: Navigating uncertainties requires intuition and experience. Our advisors bring decades of expertise to guide you through challenges and opportunities.
  5. Long-Term Relationships: We are partners in your financial journey, providing ongoing support and advice that evolves as your life and goals change.

Case Study: Balancing AI Tools with Human Expertise

James, a tech entrepreneur in his 30s, initially used a robo-advisor to manage his investments. While the platform offered simplicity, James soon realised its limitations as his finances became more complex. After selling his company, he needed advice on tax efficiency, estate planning, and diversifying his portfolio.

We worked with James to:

  • Streamline His Portfolio: Combining AI tools for data analysis with our human insight, we built a strategy that balanced growth and stability.
  • Optimise His Tax:  Our advisors identified ways to reduce James’ tax liabilities through bespoke solutions unavailable in standard robo-advisor algorithms.
  • Plan Long-Term: We created a holistic plan to align his investments with his long-term goals, including philanthropy and family wealth preservation.

By combining AI-powered insights with personalised advice, James now enjoys the benefits of both worlds – efficiency and expertise.

The Best of Both Worlds

AI and robo-advisors are powerful tools, but they are just that – tools. When it comes to wealth management, nothing replaces the personalised guidance, emotional intelligence, and strategic insight of a trusted human advisor. At Fogwill & Jones, we leverage technology to enhance our services, but we never compromise on the human touch.

Ready to experience the difference personalised advice can make? Contact us today on 01142 588899 or email info@fogwilljones.co.uk to find out how we can help you achieve your financial goals with confidence and care.

 

Case Study: Investing for the Future

Planning for financial stability in later life is a crucial step, especially after significant life events like receiving an inheritance or taking early retirement. This case study highlights how a client sought financial advice to align their investments with their values while ensuring long-term growth and stability. Robert Wilkinson, one of Fogwill & Jones’ expert advisors, provided tailored financial guidance, helping the clients transition into a more secure financial future with a focus on ethical investments.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

USS scheme for one of us resulting in early retirement pension and lump sum, in addition to recent inheritance and the need to make good financial planning for later life.

How has Robert Wilkinson helped you?

Rob has taken over from our previous financial advisor in Fogwill and Jones, and he has just conducted our annual review. He understood our concerns, particularly our motivation to use our money in positive ethical investments, and gave us a good explanation of where things stand with our investments and was thorough in assessing the level of risk we feel comfortable with, I appreciated his personable and frank approach and feel we are in safe hands. Thanks Rob!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes in the sense that our investments are beginning to show signs of recovery after the shock of COVID.

What could they have done better?

Nothing – we will have a follow up meeting in a couple of months.’

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates the importance of personalised financial advice when managing significant financial changes and aligning investments with personal values. Through a comprehensive and empathetic approach, Robert has helped the clients navigate their current financial circumstances while positioning them for long-term success. By prioritising ethical investments and tailored risk strategies, Fogwill & Jones has provided the client with a solid foundation for a sustainable and value-driven financial future.