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Global Market Commentary – March 2024

STOCKS BEGIN TO MOTOR -
In June 2023 we asked whether a new bull market had begun. Nine months later, we have our answer. The MSCI World index moved to new all-time highs in February. The US and Japanese stock markets have led the way, while others are yet to catch up - including the UK’s.

Spring Budget 2024 – Highlights

Yesterday, Jeremy Hunt gave what could be the Conservative Party’s last Budget before a General Election and possibly his last as Chancellor of the Exchequer. He claimed the Spring Budget 2024 aimed to halve inflation, reduce debt and grow the economy.

National Minimum Wage increase 

All employers need to be aware that the National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates are increasing on 1‌‌‌ ‌‌April 2024. In addition, the National Living Wage will be extended to workers aged 21 and over (previously only for age 23 and over).

HMRC makes child benefit digital for new parents

A change to the child benefit claims process means it can now be done entirely online through the government’s…

Changes to National Insurance contributions – 6 January 2024

In his 2023 Autumn statement the Chancellor’s giveaway came in the form of a cut to National Insurance rather…

Crypto asset holders urged to use the HMRC disclosure scheme

In November 2023, HMRC launched a new voluntary disclosure route to allow individuals with undeclared capital gains tax (CGT)…

Scotland vs England – A Taxpayer Comparison

The Institute of Charted Accountants Scotland (ICAS) has made an interesting and very useful comparison of the 2023/24 Scottish…

One month to go…

Self-Assessment deadline 31st January Countdown for 5.7 million customers to file their tax return With less than a month…

Scottish Budget 2024/25

The Scottish Budget plans for 2024/25 were announced by the new Scottish Finance Secretary, Shona Robison, on 19 December 2023 and included a new income tax band for higher earners in Scotland.

Introducing PayCircle – a new cloud-based payroll platform

We are thrilled to bring you the latest update from Greaves West & Ayre's payroll department. In our ongoing pursuit of excellence and innovation, we are excited to announce that we are adopting a new cloud-based payroll platform – PayCircle. This transition is set to enhance the way clients manage their payroll, making it more accessible and secure than ever before.

Car vs Van – Benefit in Kind implications

If you are considering purchasing a company car, it is important to understand the benefit in kind (BIK) implications. The BIK rules tax any private benefit a director or employee receives from the company. For any vehicle, you need to determine if it is classed as a car or a van.

Planning for care needs

We often take steps to fund for future retirement, manage our Inheritance Tax position or make Wills, but planning for care needs is seldom at the top of our lists.