In the current discourse surrounding pension contributions in the UK, a recent report by Royal London has sparked a significant debate. According to research conducted by Oxford Economics, the blanket approach of increasing pension contributions for all is not a one-size-fits-all solution, particularly for lower-income households. The findings suggest that while auto-enrolment has been a … Continue reading Rethinking Pension Contributions: A Path Towards Sustainable Financial Well-being →

The recent findings from the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) have unveiled a stark reality: the income required for a moderate retirement lifestyle has surged by 38%, an increase of £8,000 within a single year. This revelation not only signals an alarm for prospective retirees but also serves as a critical wake-up call to … Continue reading The Escalating Cost of Retirement: A Call to Action for Reform →

In an era where global mobility has become the norm, the need for comprehensive financial planning that transcends borders is more pressing than ever. As the founder of the Academy of Life Planning, I've observed a significant dilemma facing our clients with overseas interests. The challenge isn't just about managing assets across different jurisdictions but … Continue reading Navigating the International Financial Advisory Landscape: A Quest for Integrity and Expertise →

In an age where the financial advisory sector is increasingly regulated, the impact on mental health among professionals has become a significant concern. According to insights shared by Morven Grierson, compliance director at MKC Wealth, during an interview with FTAdviser, regulatory changes, particularly those surrounding consumer duty, are exerting considerable pressure on advisers, especially those … Continue reading The Mental Health Benefits of Being a Non-Intermediating Financial Planner →

In the realm of financial planning and investment management, the Academy of Life Planning champions a visionary approach that prioritises sustainability, accessibility, and integrity. A pivotal element of our investment philosophy is the recommendation of auto-rebalancing globally diversified retail passive multi-asset funds as the default investment solution for our clients. This strategy is deeply rooted … Continue reading The Strategic Advantage of Auto-Rebalancing Globally Diversified Retail Passive Multi-Asset Funds →

In the contemporary landscape of financial education within the UK, a pressing dialogue has emerged, spotlighting the critical need for a comprehensive overhaul in how financial literacy is imparted to the younger generation. This conversation, underscored by the recent testimonies before the Education Select Committee, illuminates a stark reality: the current state of financial education … Continue reading Navigating the Complex Terrain of Financial Education in UK Schools: A Call for Authentic Reform →

At the Academy of Life Planning, we've always believed that financial planning should transcend the mere mechanics of money management. It's not just about ensuring you have enough to retire comfortably or save for a rainy day. It's about crafting a life that's rich in meaning, purpose, and joy—a life that resonates deeply with your … Continue reading Transforming Financial Planning: The Game Plan Approach →

There are two issues that I have with the pension pot strategy. The first is that your pension savings are not safe from life events. The second is that they can sway important decisions in life. Let me tell you more. When I started out, I anticipated that I would spend my entire career with … Continue reading The Most Dangerous Risk: Embracing Life Beyond the Pension Pot →