

Six assumptions you shouldn’t make about life insurance
Life insurance is a confusing subject for many, which is one reason why there are so many myths surrounding the subject. Here are some of the most common reasons given for not taking out life insurance – myths that have no foundation in fact. 1. My home policy will cover me abroad In reality it is more likely the case that moving abroad will make your existing policy null and void. When embarking on expat life always check your existing life insurance policies and chat to an


Expats: do you know where all your pensions are?
Expats are in an unusual position when it comes to their retirement because the chances are they have managed to create pension entitlements in a variety of places around the world. That in itself is not a problem, the difficulty comes when you get to retirement and it is time to get all of the money you are due to from every fund you have ever paid into. You may think that the pension providers and governments you have given your hard-earned cash to look after will spare no


Five UK pension myths busted
Although pensions affect us all if we are lucky enough to last until we stop working, there is a surprising amount of confusion surrounding the subject. Here are 5 common myths about pensions: 1. I don’t need a private pension, the state will support me This is probably the most common pension myth, often used by people to justify their own lack of saving. Sadly, those taking this view are going to be sorely disappointed come retirement day. State pensions are shrinking as th


What is a risk profile and why is it important?
Investment involves risk. Always. The important thing is to manage that risk in a way which is suitable for each individual. In order for financial planners to be able to find the best level of investment risk for each client, they need to work out the individual’s risk profile. This involves three elements: Risk capacity – the level of financial risk the client can afford to take Risk requirements – the level of risk necessary to produce a return which will achieve the clien


Should my asset allocation change as I get older?
The short answer is yes! And here’s the lowdown on why. Young people tend to take greater risks in life, which explains a lot of things including why adolescents commit more crimes than other age groups, why they are more likely to drink and smoke and why it costs a lot more to insure a car for a teenage boy than for a 70-something grandmother. The reason why teenagers tend to take greater risks is less obvious. It is often explained by saying that young people feel immortal