Good News from the Budget: A Rethink on Auto-Enrolment?

In a surprising twist from the recent Budget, the government might just be reconsidering its push to expand auto-enrolment (AE) requirements for businesses. Why might this be good news, you ask? Simply put, it’s a matter of timing, especially as the nation grapples with a cost-of-living crisis. At the Academy of Life Planning, we believe … Continue reading Good News from the Budget: A Rethink on Auto-Enrolment?

Retirement Planning for Women: Why Both Financial and Human Capital Matter

Retirement planning isn’t just about building a robust financial nest egg. It’s about preparing for a fulfilling, purposeful life after work—a life that involves both financial capital and human capital. For women, in particular, this broader approach is vital, as they often face greater challenges in securing financial independence for retirement. Understanding these two sides … Continue reading Retirement Planning for Women: Why Both Financial and Human Capital Matter

Beware the Pension Pitfall: When DIY Turns to Disaster

Listen up, folks! Your pension pot is probably your single biggest investment, and who wouldn't want to take control of that? But, before you get all giddy about self-invested personal pensions (Sipps) putting you "in the driving seat," let me hit the brakes and steer you back to reality. Just ask Stuart James. One minute, … Continue reading Beware the Pension Pitfall: When DIY Turns to Disaster

The State Pension Panic: What They’re Not Telling You (And What You Should Really Do)

Hey, ever had that sinking feeling when you think about your future and your state pension? You’re not alone. A whopping 70% of Britons believe the state pension will be as extinct as dinosaurs by the time they retire1. Sounds scary, right? But before you dive into a pool of despair, let’s dissect this scare … Continue reading The State Pension Panic: What They’re Not Telling You (And What You Should Really Do)

Reimagining Retirement: Challenging Fear-Based Financial Narratives

A recent Canada Life survey reveals a stark reality: 49% of Brits under the age of 66 anticipate working beyond the State pension age. The reasons are as concerning as they are common: insufficient pensions, rising cost of living fears, and anxiety about outliving their savings. Moreover, there's a palpable worry about the health impacts … Continue reading Reimagining Retirement: Challenging Fear-Based Financial Narratives

Redefining Retirement: Embracing a Holistic Approach to Financial Resilience

Shifting the Focus: From Enriching Bankers to Fostering Sustainable Livelihoods for All In recent discussions within the financial sector, see FT Adviser 'Retirement needs to be considered in the wider picture of financial resilience', a prevalent narrative pushed by many bankers and supported implicitly by governmental actions is the utilisation of pension funds to bolster … Continue reading Redefining Retirement: Embracing a Holistic Approach to Financial Resilience

Is 75 the New Normal Retirement Age?

As people live longer and the cost of living continues to rise, the traditional retirement age of 65 is becoming increasingly unrealistic for many. With inflation remaining stubbornly high and the preference for drawdowns over annuity purchases, there's a real risk of outliving our capital. This changing landscape requires a re-evaluation of what we consider … Continue reading Is 75 the New Normal Retirement Age?