Why Choosing a “Whole of Market” Mortgage Adviser Matters

by Levi HaughtonFinancial Planning Tips & Insights 8 July 20268 July 2026Comments are Disabled

When searching for a mortgage, you’ll likely come across the term “whole of market.” While it may sound like industry jargon, understanding what it means can make a significant difference when it comes to finding the right mortgage for your circumstances. At Albon Financial Planning, we offer whole of market mortgage advice, giving our clients access to a broad range of mortgage products from …

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 …

Halifax 5% Mortgage & £5k Deposit Mortgage Explained: What First-Time Buyers Need to Know in 2026

by Levi HaughtonFinancial Planning Tips & Insights 3 June 20262 July 2026Comments are Disabled

For many first-time buyers, saving for a house deposit is the biggest hurdle to getting on the property ladder. Rising rents, higher living costs, and soaring property prices mean that even people who can comfortably afford monthly mortgage repayments often struggle to save tens of thousands upfront. That’s why Halifax has introduced a range of low-deposit mortgage …

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 …

Getting a Joint Mortgage With a Friend or Partner: What You Need to Know

by Levi HaughtonFinancial Planning Tips & Insights 20 May 20262 July 2026Comments are Disabled

With rising property prices and the challenge of saving for a deposit, more people are considering buying a home with a friend instead of waiting to meet a partner. A joint mortgage with a friend can be a smart way to get onto the property ladder but it’s not a decision to take lightly. What …

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 …

Weekly Market Update – May 2026: Markets Rebound but Energy Risks Linger

by Rebecca FatharlyMarket & Economic Updates 14 May 202620 May 2026Comments are Disabled

Global markets rallied in April, recovering from March’s losses as strong earnings and continued AI-driven growth supported investor sentiment. However, the ongoing Iran conflict and elevated oil prices continue to create uncertainty around inflation and economic growth. Markets recover as tensions persist Global equity markets rebounded during April, with U.S. equities climbing to fresh highs …