Retirement Planning

Reports say the Budget will lift the tax threshold for pensioners relying only on the state pension, but older retirees and some savers may miss out.

Pre-retirees weighing Roth conversions should compare taxes over both spouses’ lifetimes, not assume retirement automatically means a lower tax bill.

AJ Bell lowered its ready-made personal pension charge from 0.45% to 0.35% on 14 October. A market comparison and other costs remain unclear.

Selling and buying can consume years of housing savings. Compare moving costs, ongoing expenses and your plans before deciding to downsize.

LV= research says 63% of UK adults fear running out of retirement money. The report offers no evidence that retirees have more to spend.

FCA data shows pension withdrawals rose 21.7% to more than £91bn in 2025-26, as drawdown use and withdrawals at high rates raise concerns.

Major German fund managers DWS, Deka, and Union Investment are reportedly developing plans for a new retirement savings scheme to replace Riester, according to F.A.S. exclusive.

German bond market saw a significant surge in net sales in July 2026, according to Bundesbank data, marking a notable shift in investor activity.

The Bank of England has announced a delay in the rollout of the November 2026 RTGS standards, pushing the implementation timeline into 2027, citing unforeseen development challenges.

The Bundesbank has announced a tender process to increase the volume of the 10-year federal bond. Details on timing and scale are forthcoming.