Benefits of Independent Advice
Thursday, June 17th, 2010Equity markets are erratic, the U.K has spent too much money and many people are unsure of the future as far as work, money and finances are involved. It might all seem very bleak and indeed the UKPLC has a lot of pain to accept before we begin to get the books in order. Although the new coalition government will start to tackle the problems facing the economy we can all take time to go over our own personal finances.
I truly believe that where change comes about, opportunities are present. The emergency budget will close off many loopholes as far as financial planning is concerned, but others may become available to encourage entrepreneurship & long term saving. Personally if you can obtain the most acceptable investment return for the amount of risk you are prepared to accept , combined with using tax breaks & low cost investment vehicles, then over the long term you should see the benefits.
The old phrase “don’t let the tax tail wag the dog” has never been truer. Evidently a large number of individuals with buy to lets have put them up for sale, hopefully to sell before the emergency budget in three weeks time. The reason is the potential change to capital gains tax. Great, but what if the government decide to backdate CGT to the Sixth of April. In reality these investors should have taken the possible action of CGT into account when planning their investment portfolios. Property is an ill-liquid asset it cannot be easily disposed of. Due to the gain in property values over the last ten yrs some investors will face possible CGT bills when they least expect it.
A competent financial adviser will be able to point out the advantages and disadvantages concerning different types of investments. This should include the investment risks & practicable tax implications.
If you’re looking for advice on investment management, Bristol based Consilium Asset Management can help you.