Case Studies

      Investing

Issue 1: Miss Y (aged 60) was concerned that whilst she had suffered health problems, this had not affected her life expectancy.  She may live another 30 years and her cash deposits will be eroded by inflation over time.

Issue 2: Mr A's (aged 35) main aim was to retire between age 50 and 55.  He did not require access to his available capital and wished to maximise the chances of growth over a 15 to 20 year peiod to help his early retirement plans.

      Retirement Planning

Issue 1: Mr B (Aged 40) was resigned to working until age 60, if not 65, but was not sure how much his existing funds and contributions would produce. Mr B was also not happy with the performance of his existing personal pensions.

Issue 2: Mr C had an after tax income target of £30,000 pa and wanted to leave his investments to concentrate on growth, accepting that some income could be taken be later.  He wanted to ideally avoid the purchase of an annuity that would involve giving up the majority of his accumulated pension fund and lock him into a low annuity rate that reflected his wife's younger age.

      Estate Planning

Issue 1:  Mrs X (aged early 70s) had a potentially substantial Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability but was taking the income from all her cash/investments.  Whilst she was prepared to lose access to some of the capital, she couldn't afford to reduce her income.

Issue 2:  Mrs Z wanted to provide for her son in the longer term, but was concerned he would fritter away any gifts.  She was already using her £3,000 annual exemption.