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 …

What Are Green Mortgages and How Can You Qualify?

by Levi HaughtonFinancial Planning Tips & Insights 27 September 202627 September 2026Comments are Disabled

As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important for homeowners, green mortgages are becoming a popular option for buyers looking to make more environmentally friendly choices. But what exactly is a green mortgage, and could you qualify for one? What Are Green Mortgages? A green mortgage is a type of mortgage designed to encourage the purchase or improvement of …

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 …

Bank of England Base Rate Changes: How Do They Affect Your Mortgage?

by Levi HaughtonFinancial Planning Tips & Insights, Market & Economic Updates 26 August 202626 August 2026Comments are Disabled

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an existing homeowner or thinking about remortgaging, you’ve probably heard the term Bank of England Base Rate mentioned in the news. But what does the Base Rate actually mean for your mortgage? When the Bank of England changes its Base Rate, it can have an impact on borrowing costs across the UK. …

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 …

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 …