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Q2 2025: equities triumph, despite tensions and tariffs
Despite geopolitical tensions and tariff tremors, global markets delivered a surprisingly strong performance in the second quarter. From a tech-fuelled rebound in the US to standout gains in emerging markets, investors found reasons to stay optimistic.
Adviser Insight and Opinion teamJuly 30, 2025
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Pensions and IHT
For years, pensions have offered a valuable shield from inheritance tax for some, featuring heavily in some estate strategies. But from April 2027, that landscape is set to shift dramatically.
Neil EvansJuly 25, 2025
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What the upcoming IHT changes mean for your clients’ retirement and legacy planning
Major reforms are coming to how pensions are treated for IHT. We break down who’s most at risk & what actions you can take now to protect your clients’ wealth.
Neil EvansJune 26, 2025
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Ten years of pension freedoms
We’re proud to co-sponsor AKG’s latest report, Ten Years of Freedoms: Lessons, Gaps, and the Road Ahead, marking a decade since the introduction of pension freedoms.
Adviser Insight and Opinion teamJune 12, 2025
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Maximising lifetime tax-free lump sums
Clearing up scheme specific tax-free cash and transitional tax-free amount certificates confusion.
Neil EvansApril 29, 2025
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Q1 2025 Market Commentary and Outlook
The first quarter of 2025 stands out for defying expectations and reversing recent trends. In equity markets, Europe outperformed the US; newly elected President Trump focused more on protectionism than pro-US growth policies like near-term tax cuts and deregulation; and Big Tech met with some Big Surprises.
Adviser Insight and Opinion teamApril 16, 2025
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Tax year end planning
We look at some of the valuable exemptions, allowances and planning opportunities that may be available before 6 April.
Neil EvansFebruary 21, 2025
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Autumn Budget 2024
Watch our short video to hear the thoughts of Mike Ambery, Retirement Savings Director, on the key announcements from the Autumn Budget.
Mike AmberyOctober 30, 2024
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Removal of the LTA: Your top 3 questions answered
We answer the top three questions we've been asked by you on the removal of the lifetime allowance. Find out more.
Neil EvansSeptember 09, 2024
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Personal Injury Trusts
The second of a two-part series, we cover Personal Injury Trusts and dispel some of the myths to help your conversations with trustees.
Gordon AndrewsJuly 30, 2024
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Deputies and Guardians
In the first of a two-part series, we cover Deputies and busting myths so you feel more confident with the issues around this business.
Gordon AndrewsJune 20, 2024
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Removal of the LTA
The removal of the lifetime allowance sees a change to how pension death benefits are considered against the new lump sum and death benefit allowance.
Neil EvansMay 24, 2024
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Removal of the lifetime allowance
In a significant change to the pension landscape, the lifetime allowance (LTA) has been removed from 6 April 2024.
Neil EvansApril 23, 2024
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The Spring Budget
Watch our short video to hear the thoughts of Mike Ambery, Retirement Savings Director, on the key announcements from the Spring Budget.
Mike AmberyMarch 06, 2024
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Tax year end planning
We look at some of the valuable exemptions, allowances and planning opportunities that may be available before 6 April.
Neil EvansMarch 06, 2024
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Key points and Lifetime Allowance changes for pension planning at 75
Key points and Lifetime Allowance changes for pension planning at 75: what you need to know now and for the 2024/25 tax year.
Neil EvansJanuary 26, 2024
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Autumn Statement 2023
Summary of key points from the Autumn Statement, including the end of the LTA, new ISA flexibility and potentially radical reforms to pension saving.
Tim FassamNovember 23, 2023
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Money invested is at risk. References to legislation and tax are based upon Standard Life’s understanding of UK law and HMRC practice in the UK as at the date this publication was last updated. Tax and legislation may change in the future.
No guarantees are given regarding the effectiveness of any arrangements entered into on the basis of these articles and Standard Life accepts no responsibility for advice which may be formulated on the basis of them.
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