Monthly Market Update – October 2026: Markets End the Month on a Stronger Note

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 7 October 20267 October 2026Comments are Disabled

Global equities gained momentum towards the end of September as strong AI investment and corporate earnings supported markets. AI rally lifts global markets Global equities picked up towards the end of the month, driven by a powerful AI-fuelled technology rally. Chip and semiconductor stocks led gains as investors welcomed continued AI investment and strong demand. …

What could the 2026 Autumn Budget mean for your finances?

by Rebecca FatharlyBudget & Policy News 1 October 20261 October 2026Comments are Disabled

Every year, the run-up to the Autumn Budget brings speculation about what might change and how it could affect your finances. This year is no exception. Chancellor John Healey is due to deliver the Autumn Budget on 28 October 2026. Following his speech on 7 September, attention has turned to whether tax changes could feature …

Monthly Market Update – September 2026: Global Stock Markets Reach New Highs

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 3 September 20263 September 2026Comments are Disabled

Strong corporate earnings and improving economic signals supported global equity markets throughout August, despite continued uncertainty surrounding inflation, interest rates and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. US and European markets reached record highs, while the FTSE 100 remained close to its own record levels. However, markets experienced some volatility towards the end of the …

Monthly Market Update – August 2026: Markets Remain Resilient Despite Global Uncertainty

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 14 August 202614 August 2026Comments are Disabled

Global markets proved resilient during July despite renewed geopolitical tensions, shifting market leadership and continued uncertainty around inflation and interest rates. The FTSE 100 reached a new all-time high, while central banks kept interest rates on hold as they continued to monitor the impact of higher energy prices and global conflict. Technology stocks came under …

Monthly Market Update – July 2026: Europe and Japan Lead as Investor Confidence Returns

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 6 July 20266 July 2026Comments are Disabled

Investor confidence returned during June as European, UK and Japanese equities rallied following a framework agreement between the U.S. and Iran to end the conflict. European markets climbed to record highs, while the FTSE 100 reached a two-month high as easing geopolitical tensions and falling oil prices reduced concerns around inflation and future interest rate …

Private Pain

by Rebecca FatharlyFinancial Planning Tips & Insights 30 June 20262 July 2026Comments are Disabled

Changes to when you can access your pension could affect your retirement plans. It’s no secret that the state pension system is creaking. An ageing population means fewer workers supporting more retirees. The number of pensioners is projected to rise by 25% by 2050¹. What’s also common knowledge is that the age at which you …

Weekly Market Update – 1st June 2026: Markets Rise on AI Momentum and Ceasefire Hopes

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 1 June 20261 June 2026Comments are Disabled

Global equity markets delivered another strong week of gains, supported by continued enthusiasm around artificial intelligence and growing expectations of a ceasefire agreement in the Middle East. Japanese equities led global markets higher, while UK equities lagged due to their greater exposure to defensive and energy sectors. US: Equities rally on AI optimism and potential …

What is AI in financial planning?

by Rebecca FatharlyFinancial Planning Tips & Insights 29 May 20262 July 2026Comments are Disabled

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept. It is here, and it is reshaping how we think about money, investments and long-term planning. For individuals and businesses alike, the rise of AI brings both opportunity and uncertainty. The key question is not whether AI will impact financial planning, but how to use it effectively …

Weekly Market Update – 25th May 2026: AI Momentum Drives Global Markets Higher

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 26 May 202626 May 2026Comments are Disabled

Global equity markets performed strongly last week, supported by continued momentum in artificial intelligence-related stocks and easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. European equities led gains, while Chinese markets lagged amid ongoing concerns around economic growth. US: Consumer sentiment falls to record low despite market rally U.S. equities moved higher over the week, with …

Weekly Market Update – 18th May 2026: Rising Bond Yields Pressure Global Markets

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 18 May 202620 May 2026Comments are Disabled

Global equity markets came under pressure last week as ongoing geopolitical tensions pushed bond yields sharply higher. Technology stocks weakened as investors rotated into energy and other sectors expected to benefit from a higher interest rate environment. US: Inflation surprises to the upside as bond yields rise Most major U.S. equity indices ended the week …