30
Jan
2026
Couple smiles as they look at a list

4 items to include in your 2026 financial planning checklist

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30 Jan 2026
We’ve all been there. Life happens, and before you know it, your will is out of date, you’ve lost track of your pension savings, and your savings and investments aren’t growing as you’d hoped. In many cases, it’s worth revisiting your financial plan regularly to ensure it stays aligned with your needs. As time passes, your personal circumstances and goals are likely to evolve, while stock market fluctuations, interest rate changes, and new legislation could open up new financial opportunities and challenges. To help keep your finances on track in 2026, read on to discover four things you might wish to include on your financial planning to-do list this year. 1. Review and update your will to ensure it’s still...
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30
Jan
2026
Couple compares two documents while typing on a phone

2 upcoming pension changes and what they could mean for your retirement

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30 Jan 2026
Over the next few years, changes to pension legislation could alter the way many people approach their retirement savings. While the earliest change isn’t set to be introduced until 2027, you may be able to take steps in 2026 to prepare for the new rules and mitigate the impact on your finances. Read on to learn about two upcoming changes to pension legislation and what you could do now to prepare. 1. Unused pension pots will be subject to Inheritance Tax from 2027 At the time of writing, you can typically leave savings held in a discretionary pension scheme to a loved one without the funds being subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT) when you pass away. However, this rule is...
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21
Jan
2026
Friends making a toast, clinking glasses of champagne

2025 highlights: Celebrating a year of growth, learning, and gratitude

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21 Jan 2026
From promotions to award ceremonies, last year I learned there’s never a dull moment in the life of a financial planner. 2025 was truly a year to remember. As it came to an end, I had time to pause and reflect on some of the milestones and celebrations that made last year so special. As we settle into 2026, I wanted to take a moment to share some exciting updates with you. Read on to discover the highlights of 2025 and join me in raising a glass (or a brew) to another great year ahead. Three cheers for Ryan Edwards, our new financial planner First up, you may already be aware that the wonderful Ryan Edwards has now officially qualified...
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12
Dec
2025
Woman alone in a red Christmas jumper stands in front of a laptop

4 investment lessons from Home Alone

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12 Dec 2025
With Christmas just around the corner, you may already be spending your evenings cuddled up under a blanket as you enjoy your favourite Christmas films – and perhaps a mince pie or two. Home Alone might well feature on your watchlist each year. In fact, the Independent reports that a new poll saw the 1990 American comedy voted as the UK’s favourite Christmas film. 35 years after it was released, you may know the story inside out by now. But have you ever considered what this Christmas classic could teach you about investing in the stock market? Keep reading to learn four insightful lessons you can take from Home Alone – from staying calm to not believing everything you’re told....
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12
Dec
2025
Young woman climbing a ladder in her new home

5 ways to help young adults get on the property ladder – without gifting the deposit

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12 Dec 2025
Whether it’s your child, grandchild, or any other loved one, as young adults fly the nest you may be hoping to help them buy their first home. Over recent years, financial support has become increasingly common (and often necessary) for young adults to get onto the property ladder. In fact, a TSB survey of 1,000 first-time buyers found that 96% received financial help to pay their deposit, with 68% receiving support from family. But it isn’t always possible to gift a large sum towards a deposit. For instance, your assets might be tied up in property or other investments, you may need to prioritise retirement saving, or you may not be able to offer equal support to all your children....
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26
Nov
2025

Your Autumn Budget update, and what it means for you

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26 Nov 2025
After months of speculation and rumour, chancellor Rachel Reeves has delivered the Autumn Budget for 2025. In this update, we’ll explain the key changes and what they mean for you. Last year, in her maiden Budget, the chancellor sought to balance the public finances with tax rises to cover a reported £22 billion black hole. This year, Reeves arguably faced an even more difficult landscape. In turn, she has announced an estimated £26 billion of tax rises by 2029/30. The chancellor had to start her speech, however, by acknowledging the “deeply disappointing” and “serious error” of the Budget announcements being released early by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). It’s also notable how many predictions ultimately proved to be wide...
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My Story

Marnel Stafford

Nice to meet you! I’m Marnel Stafford, a dedicated financial planner who works with clients in London, Berkshire, Surrey, Kent and the surrounding areas. My mission revolves around equipping families and individuals with the knowledge necessary to make well-informed decisions and achieve their financial aspirations.

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Marnel Stafford
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