Investment Markets, Economics (Taxation) and Health Commentary
Let’s firstly consider the latter in the headline…. We attach an article from Market Watch – by David Sullivan, that discusses the subject of Covid, therapeutics and the vaccines that are expected to be effective over the coming year….. Therapy and Blood plasma treatment has become a shorter-term discussion. Click the link to read the article: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/we-might-get-back-to-normal-even-before-a-vaccine-by-using-this-century-old-method-to-treat-covid-19-2020-11-12 A variety of vaccines, therapies and remaining vigilant with our personal safety and social distancing is needed to improve the economy – clearly, although the economic outlook has certainly improved since the vaccine news breaking. Taxation expected to increase This is an imperative read for all investors In an article written by David Byers and Carol Lewis in The Times – published yesterday, the summary of the proposals is detailed in the link below. Click the link to read the article: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/landlords-and-second-home-owners-targeted-in-capital-gains-tax-reform-btr6xnqjt Landlords and second-home owners must be mindful of the detail and seek advice – considering their circumstances. We will update our clients as development transpires and naturally plan with our clients and their investments, as required. Investment Markets Naturally there has been a dramatic improvement in sentiment since Monday’s vaccine news – with further positive news expected over the next month or so, although we see the harsh reality of infection rates and deaths across the globe – which will not reduce for weeks/months to come, so there is likely to be volatility as news unfolds in relation to virus increases and potentially further limits to social interaction. The US awaits stimulus which is likely to be a big ‘shot in the arm’ for the economy – so supplying a boost for investment markets. There is no clear timescale for the stimulus agreement, given the current mess of American politics and the election result not officially being concluded. Advice Given the complexity of the present economic position and background to taxation, advice is essential. We discuss (internally) the markets, regulatory and governance positions regularly where I very much communicate how my family should be protected and where and how my investments should be managed should I fall off my perch! We all have real life issues to consider so the value of advice is essential, certainly while accumulating capital and drawing income, but certainly when one’s hard work is to be distributed to beneficiaries when the ultimate happens. This is called Financial Planning and we are professional and expert at this. Estate Planning and Family Protection This area of ‘planning’ has certainly been impacted during the pandemic which is strange as I would have expected this area of advice to have been essential during a health crisis. If you have questions and need advice in relation to the way your estate is set up and effectively ‘planned’ to protect your family, control the asset distribution in an effective way and minimize the tax impact on your estate (IHT) upon death, simply get in touch. Historical Note I was asked yesterday to forward the Market Overview produced in December 2009, which I mentioned in a recent note. Investment markets were in turmoil in December 2009 – with the GFC. A look back is interesting! Many of our clients will recall the time and communication we provided to our investment clients. Click the link to read ‘A Market Overview December 2009 – 2010 Crystal Ball’: We hope and pray for swift action and positive news in relation to the pandemic and a steady and progressive medium-term improvement to investment assets, the economy and naturally Global Health. As always, we are here to provide advice as required. Stay safe, healthy and happy. Best Regards. Richard and the Best Price FS Team |