The Laffer Curve, conceived by economist Dr. Arthur Laffer, illustrates the relationship between tax rates and government revenue. While Laffer popularized the term, the idea has been around since the 14th century, with roots in the writings of Muslim philosopher Ibn Khaldun and references in John Maynard Keynes’ work.  In essence, Laffer’s theory posits that excessively […]

Pensioners will receive an additional 4.1% per annum through the state pension starting in April 2025, thanks to the government’s ‘triple lock’ policy.  The triple lock ensures that the state pension increases each April based on the highest of the following criteria:  The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) in September of the previous year  The average wage growth across […]

House sales in the UK experienced a notable increase of 5% in August 2024 compared to the same month in 2023, according to data from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Approximately 90,210 homes were sold across the UK, reflecting this upward trend, although this figure saw a slight decline of less than 1% from July […]

The UK job market is facing increased competition, with over two jobseekers vying for each vacancy. According to recent research from jobs site Adzuna, the number of advertised job vacancies has dropped by 0.5%, totalling 857,000 roles available in August, a decrease from July. This trend suggests potential stagnation in the UK job market.  The […]

Unveiling one the most hotly anticipated budgets in recent history on Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves set the direction of travel for the Labour Government. The Autumn Budget 2024 includes a raft of headline-grabbing announcements, with major implications for everything from capital gains tax to inheritance tax. Your financial planner can help you decode the impact […]

“There is a budget coming in October and it’s going to be painful.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer has given his strongest hint yet of tax rises to come in the 2024 Autumn Budget.   In his first major speech from 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister warned there would be tough choices ahead as the Labour […]