INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Welcome to our latest issue. The first quarter of
2025 has been anything but steady for global markets.
With the arrival of President Donald Trump’s new
administration in the United States, economic tensions
have surged worldwide. Global stock markets have
been rattled as sweeping tariffs, intended to bolster
the American economy, were introduced. While these
measures may aim to stimulate domestic growth,
on page 08, we consider their ripple effects that are
reshaping global trade, inflation and investor sentiment.
The October 2024 Budget proposed sweeping
changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT), significantly tightening
the laws that were previously more forgiving for families
with trading businesses and farmland. Effective from
April 2026, these types of assets will now incur IHT
at a reduced rate of 20% on valuations exceeding £1
million. On page 04, we consider why the changes are
leaving many families scrambling to reassess their estate
planning strategies.
Ten years ago, pension freedoms revolutionised how
people access their retirement savings. These changes
offered savers over 55 greater options to withdraw and
manage their pension pots. However, a decade later,
research indicates that many individuals are making
critical financial decisions without seeking advice or fully
understanding the tax implications. Read the full article
on page 03.
A complete list of the articles featured in this issue
appears opposite.