On 22 June 2023, the Bank of England (BoE) raised their interest rate (the base rate) again – this time, by 0.5% to now stand at 5%. Given that this is the thirteenth rise since December 2021, many people are asking how much higher the base rate could go. The base rate has a big impact on the cost of borrowing…
In June 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ipsos Mori published a report into the state of financial wellbeing in the UK. Its findings were significant. It found that “financial wellbeing” – a deep sense of personal financial security and freedom of choice – is essential to mental health and success…
The UK economy has certainly been through a lot since 2020. COVID-19 led to widespread lockdowns, a short market crash and a shift to remote working. GDP grew by 7.5% in 2021, rebounding from a 9.4% plunge the previous year, but a reckoning was soon coming. Inflation rose in 2022…
Have you checked your National Insurance (NI) record lately? This summer, a key “window” will be closing for a little-known rule about State Pensions. After 31 July the chance will be gone to fill more “gaps” in certain individuals’ NI records. Missing the opportunity may lead some people to lose out on hundreds…
A “mid-life crisis” is experienced by as many as 20% of UK adults between 40 and 60 years old, often triggered by events like divorce, death in the family and boredom. At its core, it is caused by a change in identity (e.g. maturation of children) and can manifest in excessive spending. As such, a mid-life crisis…
Even the best-laid plans can flounder upon unforeseen events. Having a backup financial plan – or a financial “Plan B” – can help provide a crucial safety net if the future does not transpire as we hope. This has become even more apparent since 2020 when COVID-19, the cost of living crisis and other economic challenges…
Did you know that UK households spend an average of £2,500 in a month, but this rises by £740 in December (a 29% increase)? The main areas where we spend more include clothing, textiles and footwear, furniture, specialist foods and electronic devices (e.g. computers and phones). In January, however, the result…
At the end of September 2022, the British pound (GBP) hit its lowest value in 50 years. It stood at $1.03 on Monday 26th September. The last time it traded at this level was in February 1985, when the GBP fell to $1.052 (a record low that lasted 37 years). With news still pouring in about our currency and how…
When people retire, they typically live off their savings and investment (e.g. in pensions) over many years. It requires a lot of preparation. Costly mistakes can – and do – happen, often due to failure to understand how pensions work. In this guide, our team at Elmfield Financial Planning in Padiham, Burnley…
Managing money is often a challenge for young people at university. Before age 18, a child’s financial needs are typically more limited due to living at home. Once they reach their halls of residence or student house, however, they suddenly need to contend with bills, cooking and budgeting for social spending…
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