News and Events

2024 has been a very good year for investors so far, with stock markets in the UK, US and Europe all reaching record highs. Signs of weakness have emerged in recent weeks, as companies report their latest earnings: valuations in the US are high and some profit taking has occurred. The UK stock market appears cheaper, with an improving economy to boot. Many investors believe inflation is finally under control.

2024 always promised to be a busy year for elections, with one half of the world’s population heading to the polls. As far as financial markets are concerned, political surprises have now bubbled up in several countries within a short period of time. With much still to be decided by voters, there is greater uncertainty in the short-term investment outlook. However, inflation remains on a declining path in the UK, US and Europe, while economic growth appears strong.

Recent data has hinted at a divergence between the US and UK/EU economies, with signs of an economic slowdown in the States coinciding with Britain and Europe rebounding from a period of stagnant GDP growth. Having been neglected for several years post-Brexit, there is hope that UK stocks may finally prosper given a more favourable macroeconomic environment.

On the 1 January 2024 the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) issued guidance on the changes that are…

At the end of 2023, investors expected the US and UK central banks to reduce interest rates by 1.50 -1.75 percentage points in 2024.1 A fortnight after the spring equinox, those expectations have reduced to only 0.25 - 0.75 percentage points2 and some are now questioning whether we will see any rate cuts at all.

The cash basis is a simpler way of preparing accounts, which takes account only of cash received and cash paid out. Unlike the traditional accruals basis there is no need to match income and expenses to the period to which they relate, or take account of debtors and creditors

Basis Period Reform:
Will it affect your business?

Wednesday 5 April 2024 sees the end of the current Tax Year. Following the Chancellor's continued plans to freeze and in some case reduce Tax-free allowances, it's more important than ever to make the most of some timely Tax planning.

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.

In the future, owners of Airbnb and short-term let properties in England will have to get planning permission before renting out rooms.

From 1 May 2024 it has been confirmed that Companies House are increasing their fees. Companies House fees are often…

A Steady Start to 2024 -
The year has begun on a tentative footing following the excesses of November and December, when asset prices galloped higher. Investors have paused to reflect on the ‘wall of worry’ that is said to accompany most bull markets.