Insights

Recent macro-economic factors and a new political landscape mean that long neglected savers will need to wait a long time for higher interest rates from central banks.

Many factors contribute to economic growth within an economy, but one that plays a role that isn’t always as apparent is that of investment. While those buying investment bonds may not immediately consider the wider impact they could be making, they are in fact contributing to a carefully balanced system. An increasingly important part of growth, companies and governments are relying more on more on the money they obtain by issuing bonds. Investment bonds explained can provide the clarity needed to make the best decisions, so having an awareness of how they impact on the wider company is a good idea.

As the sun sets on another FIFA World Cup, we analyse the economic benefits – both hard and soft – the global tournament can bring.

After years of steady, undramatic growth in equity indices volatility returned with a bang in 2018 with a February “flash-crash” which at one point saw the Dow Jones drop 1,600 points before rallying 750 into the close. Following the shock of February, the markets attempted a recovery before re-testing the previous year-to-date lows but since Easter we have again seen a steady appreciation in equity indices back to near-record levels.

Trying to find the best Fixed Rate Bonds can involve plenty of thought and consideration, as the quest to locate a perfect fit for requirements and expectations may be a timely one. An important factor to be considered is whether Fixed Rate Bonds with access are something that could be appealing.

Nobody can plan their life month-by-month or year-by-year, but having an idea on when you are likely to make the biggest credit application in your life – your mortgage application – can help you optimise your credit rating and help lenders to give you the best deals.

Many firms offer a free report which allow you to check your credit score and identify any issues which may deter potential lenders from offering you their best deals. The main providers are:

• Callcredit
• Equifax
• Experian 

With interest rates on current accounts being negligible, many savers are looking for other options as to where to store their wealth. The matter becomes one of priority when searching for somewhere to deposit a lump sum; taking advantage of any opportunity to accumulate interest is important. Knowing how to do this in a way that is sensible and puts the savings in a safe position has led many to Fixed rate bonds.

Knowing what to save, and where to save it, can be an incredibly complicated business. The desire to make any money work and earn is often tempered by a fear of risk, and many savers understandably don’t want to subject themselves to potential worries and stress.

Why should cash survive when there are more efficient means of payment evolving?

Recently, awareness around marriage or civil partnership, and the benefit it brings to optimised inheritance tax planning, has increased. However, one new allowance offered by the government is being ignored by up to two million married couples – the Marriage Allowance.

The Personal Savings Allowance was introduced on 6th April 2016. Rather than the previous mish-mash of banks either paying interest to customers net of 20% withholding tax or just paying interest gross, most savers are now granted a tax-free allowance for the savings income. Your allowance is based on your income tax band (2018/2019):

Following the recent emergence of rebranding from challenger banks as they fight for a stake in the growing specialist finance market, John Gunn, Executive Chairman of SynerGIS Capital looks at some examples, and shares his thoughts on why it must be more than just a cosmetic exercise.

According to Will Aid, 54% of parents with children under 18 do not have a will. This is understandable, given the pressures of modern life, combined with it being a subject (like critical illness cover and life insurance) which people would rather not spend their spare time thinking about.

After years of steady appreciation, real volatility returned to global equity indices on Friday 5th Feb. The January US non-farm-payrolls report signalled to the markets that the Federal Reserve will move soon to raise US interest rates and continue the unwind of the decade-long low-interest rate environment.

Faced with some considerable headwinds – rising house prices, rising rental costs, insecure career prospects, university fees and end of defined- benefit pensions – most parents and family members see the merit in saving for their children from as early as possible.

Keeping track of investment bonds, while incredibly important, can be something of a challenge, especially for those with large portfolios. Monitoring fluctuations and keeping an eye on progress can make all the difference to maximising bond investments, but can often be difficult when lifestyles and workloads take priority on an individual’s time. There are however, many ways to keep track of things in an organized and relatively simple manner.

New year - New financial resolutions.

As the UK moves towards Brexit, its impact on many aspects of life within the UK is being assessed, examined and interpreted across all sectors. A key area of focus and scrutiny is how it might affect personal finances; something which has become the subject of much discussion and debate. Special attention is being paid to how investment bonds in the UK may be altered and the ways in which individuals can ensure that their investments are the best they possibly can be.As the UK moves towards Brexit, its impact on many aspects of life within the UK is being assessed, examined and interpreted across all sectors. A key area of focus and scrutiny is how it might affect personal finances; something which has become the subject of much discussion and debate. Special attention is being paid to how investment bonds in the UK may be altered and the ways in which individuals can ensure that their investments are the best they possibly can be.

Back in early 2015, the Pound Sterling topped €1.40, a seven-year high against the Euro. Summer trips to the Costa del sol, city breaks in Paris and excursions around Athens were extremely attractive to Britons venturing abroad into the Eurozone, to take advantage of this belt-loosening exchange rate.

Investing in bonds is something people often consider, but can also view as too difficult for beginners to get to grips with. Breaking the subject down and looking at it piece by piece, however, it is possible to see it is a process that is fully manageable, and one that has the potential to provide fantastic returns for those willing to embrace it.

Getting started in the world of bond trading requires clear understanding of exactly what is right for the situation the buyer is in, and how they wish to control their money. Thinking about access, the levels of risk exposure and timings are all important in bond purchasing, and help to make a decision in terms of what to invest in.

Be SMART to achieve your savings goals. Keeping your targets in focus is important to help you achieve your savings objectives.
 

With fraud and cyber offences now making up almost half of UK crimes, it comes as no surprise that the security of personal data and other sensitive information is increasingly becoming the concern of customers and businesses. Here, we’re giving 5 tips to help keep your details safe.

It’s the same date every year, but somehow, the festive period seems to creep up on us. It’s one of the most expensive times of the year, and GoCompare.com estimate that each British household spends on average, £753 on festivities.

Whilst we’re fast moving towards a cashless society, the change in bank notes, both in look and feel, can’t go unnoticed.  One of the most notable differences is the change in material. The new notes are printed on polymer – a thin and flexible plastic material whilst the old were printed on a special paper. And the reason? Apart from the obvious durability aspect, they’re cleaner and more secure, limiting your chances of being stuck with a counterfeit note.

On Sunday the 15th October, the old £1 coins went out of circulation and ceased to be legal tender.

When deciding on which fixed-rate SynerGIS bond to choose, a number of factors can affect your choice. Ultimately, the term length you select should work for you and your individual circumstances.

The taxable amount you pay on savings income depends on your income tax bracket.

Global Investment Strategy UK Ltd, the company behind SynerGIS, has been listed on the 2017 Inc. 5000 Europe. 

Consumer spending growth slowed for a second consecutive month, and it seems shoppers are being more cautious with their buying decisions. Analysis indicates that the rising cost of essential items is leaving the UK population with less disposable cash for indulgent purchases.