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. …
Read more “Bank of England Base Rate Changes: How Do They Affect Your Mortgage?”
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 …
Read more “Monthly Market Update – August 2026: Markets Remain Resilient Despite Global Uncertainty”
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 …
Read more “Why Choosing a “Whole of Market” Mortgage Adviser Matters”
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 …
Read more “Monthly Market Update – July 2026: Europe and Japan Lead as Investor Confidence Returns”
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 …
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 …
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 …
Read more “Weekly Market Update – 1st June 2026: Markets Rise on AI Momentum and Ceasefire Hopes”
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 …
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 …
Read more “Weekly Market Update – 25th May 2026: AI Momentum Drives Global Markets Higher”
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 …
Read more “Getting a Joint Mortgage With a Friend or Partner: What You Need to Know”