Gray & Associates is a firm of independent financial advisors specialising in providing advice on pensions, investments, Inheritance Tax planning, wealth and personal protection.
How upcoming changes could affect estate valuations and beneficiary payouts
In the previous 2024 Autumn Budget, the Chancellor announced that the Inheritance Tax (IHT) thresholds, which are the amount you can pass on when you die before IHT is due, will remain unchanged until 2030. However, from 6 April 2027, pensions will no longer be exempt from IHT, which will alter how estates are valued and passed on. That means that Inheritance Tax may have to be paid on your pension when you die.
How new tax rules are reshaping family finances and long-term planning
From 1 January 2025, private schools across the UK were required to apply 20% VAT to tuition and boarding fees. The change represents a significant shift in education funding and has placed substantial financial pressure on families with children in independent schools.
Smart financial moves to consider before the tax year ends on 5 April 2026
As the 2025/26 tax year-end approaches on 5 April 2026, now is the time to review your finances to ensure you’ve maximised all available allowances and reliefs.
Why market timing rarely works – and why long‑term consistency matters
Some people delay investing because they’re waiting for “the right moment.” The idea of buying when prices are low and selling when they’re high seems sensible in theory, but in practice, it’s very difficult to perform. Even experienced professionals struggle to predict short-term market movements accurately, and headlines or emotions can easily cloud judgment. Meanwhile, cash sitting on the sidelines loses potential for compounding over time, which is one of the most powerful drivers of long-term growth.
New data uncovers a concerning gap in pension awareness and confidence across all generations
In the UK, nearly half of working-age adults cannot estimate the total value of their pension savings. This uncertainty suggests that many lack a clear understanding of their retirement readiness and may be missing opportunities to plan effectively for the future.
