Let’s face it—financial planning can be a dry topic. When you start throwing around words like “compound interest,” “asset allocation,” or “diversification,” most people’s eyes start to glaze over. So, while I could fill meetings with charts, graphs, and spreadsheets, I’ve found that connecting through stories and relatable examples works so much better. Over the...Continue reading
That feeling in the pit of your stomach when you’re about to make a life-changing decision – I know it well. As someone who’s moved between countries multiple times and now helps others do the same, I’ve become intimately familiar with the unique anxiety that comes with international relocation. Whether you’re staring at job offers...Continue reading
Having spent some wonderful years in South Africa, I’ve come to appreciate not just the rich culture and landscapes, but also the importance of health awareness, especially when it comes to heart health. September is heart awareness month in South Africa, and on the 29th we celebrate World Heart Day—a moment to remind ourselves just...Continue reading
As our loved ones age, many of us will find ourselves stepping into the role of caregiver, a role that can be both rewarding and challenging. The transition into caregiving often comes with many questions: How can I best care for my loved one? How do I ensure their wishes are fulfilled? How do I...Continue reading
As an international financial planner licensed in the UK, US, France, and South Africa, I’ve had the privilege of working with expats and global citizens from diverse backgrounds. This experience has shown me that while our financial challenges may vary, the psychological principles that guide our decisions are remarkably universal. This is where the concept...Continue reading
True financial wealth isn’t just about hitting specific monetary targets. It’s about crafting a life where your resources are aligned with your values and aspirations, leading to a sense of fulfilment beyond the bank balance. In Brian Portnoy’s The Geometry of Wealth, he explores how financial success is ultimately about achieving funded contentment—a balance between...Continue reading
Here’s the thing about financial planning—whether you’re living in France, or juggling assets and obligations in the UK, US, or South Africa—it’s not as complicated as it sounds. I often find that it all comes back to the basics. I recently took a quick trip back to the UK to see my family and some...Continue reading
Picture a bustling farmer’s market, with stalls brimming with colourful produce, freshly baked bread, and all sorts of artisanal goods. Each stand offers something different—whether it’s a perfectly ripened tomato or a loaf of rustic sourdough, it’s clear that the market caters to a diverse crowd with varying tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. Now, imagine...Continue reading
Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the idea of balance. I often travel overseas to visit clients, but I also try to include visits with family, friends and colleagues that I’ve made and tried hard to stay connected with. We often hear about work-life balance, but this concept can be quite limiting. It suggests a separation...Continue reading
Often, when people sit down to plan their finances, they ask themselves (or their planner asks them), “How much do I need?” or, even more challenging to answer, “How much is enough?” But what if we could dig a little deeper and not just think about ‘enough money’ but a mindset of ‘enough’? When it...Continue reading
“There will be haters, there will be doubters, there will be non-believers, and then there will be you proving them wrong.” This powerful quote by Jennifer Van Allen resonates deeply with me, both as a professional and someone who has lived the ups and downs of life as an expat. It speaks to the resilience...Continue reading
Retiring abroad is a dream for many expats, offering the promise of new adventures, cultural experiences, and a change of pace. However, planning for retirement as an expat comes with its own set of unique challenges and considerations. From currency fluctuations and tax implications to healthcare and estate planning, there are a myriad of factors...Continue reading