As we embark on a new tax year in the UK, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the good old UK state pension. Now, I know what you might be thinking – pensions aren’t exactly the most thrilling topic of conversation. But trust me, these five facts about the UK state pension...Continue reading
Picture this: you’re sitting at your desk in your recently renovated home office, staring at your computer screen with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The stock market is soaring, and your portfolio is looking better than ever. You’re feeling like a financial genius, ready to take on the world. But then, suddenly, the market...Continue reading
It’s 4am, and while most of the city is still blissfully asleep, you’re wide awake and ready to pounce. No, you’re not a superhero about to embark on a secret mission (though that would be pretty cool). You’re a tech enthusiast, and today is the day you finally get your hands on the latest gadget...Continue reading
My wife and I have been fortunate to live and work in several cities! Embracing the digital nomad lifestyle is like jumping onto a thrilling rollercoaster that spans the globe. We have loved it, but we know it’s not for everyone. From the aromatic coffee shops of Paris to the vibrant streets of old Cape...Continue reading
In recent years, we’ve seen a significant shift in the world of investing, with more and more people looking to align their financial goals with their personal values. This has created the space for us to engage with sustainable investing, also known as socially responsible investing (SRI) or environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing. This...Continue reading
Living abroad can be an exciting adventure, but when it comes to financial planning and investing, it can also feel like working through a maze; trust me, I know! At Northern Cross Wealth Management, we work with clients just like you who reside in South Africa, France, Italy, the USA, and beyond. We’ve seen time...Continue reading
Whether you’re an expat exploring the global financial landscape or simply looking to make the most of your hard-earned money, you might be wondering about the difference between financial planners and advisers. It’s a common question, and understanding the distinction can be a game-changer in your financial journey. You could ask one of my chickens...Continue reading
As we work with clients who are entering their later years and managing their retirement, we find that they are often tinged with the challenge of loneliness. Retirement, the loss of loved ones, and the relocation of family can lead many to face the twilight of their lives in isolation. Yet, as W. Somerset Maugham...Continue reading
Retirement often conjures images of leisurely days, free from the constraints of a 9-to-5 schedule. But what if the key to a truly fulfilling retirement lies in not entirely stepping away from the professional world? Before you settle into a future of uninterrupted relaxation, let’s explore a different perspective – one where continuing to work,...Continue reading
Budgeting… that’s where the fun begins! When it comes to financial planning, one of the very first topics I dive into with new clients is budgeting. And it’s not always easy, because budgeting often gets a bad rap. Sure, it’s right up there after we’ve tackled the essentials like Wills, Powers of Attorney, Life Insurance,...Continue reading
In our quest for sunnier shores and new adventures, one critical financial aspect often overlooked is the tax treatment of UK pensions abroad. It’s a common assumption that the tax privileges enjoyed in the UK will seamlessly transfer overseas, particularly when it comes to the tax-free Pension Commencement Lump Sum (PCLS). This assumption, however, can...Continue reading
I’ve always been fascinated with technology and how is helps us with our money – right from a kid with a fistful of tenners to my current position in our tech-driven profession. And, as someone who has witnessed the evolution of personal finance across different continents, I can attest to the revolutionary role that technology...Continue reading