BoE cuts interest rates
The Bank of England (BoE) has voted to cut interest rates by 0.25% to 3.75%, bringing the base rate to its lowest level since February 2023. The Bank of England (BoE) has...
Is an Employee Ownership Trust still a good exit option for business owners?
In the Autumn Budget, the government announced a major change to the tax relief for business owners selling to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This came into immediate effect and for anyone in...
2026 Market outlook – themes, opportunities, concerns
What might be the dominant market themes in 2026? Once again, AI looks set to dominate headlines into 2026 according to many of SJP’s experts. This is despite recent concerns around valuations and the...
The Chinese market: an undervalued giant?
At a glance Who do you think the global leaders in robotics are? A quick look online might bring up familiar US brands. Potentially Tesla robotaxis. Or Amazon, with its warehouse robots....
How you can beat the 60% tax trap
Believe it or not, there can be a downside to having income of £100,000 or more – an effective 60% tax bill. As an increasing number of people get caught in the...
A Christmas gift that keeps on giving
Imagine a Christmas present that could change someone’s future, make a dream come true or just help pay the bills. Here’s why gifting assets can be a tax win-win for everyone, and not just...
The power of having a tax plan in place
With Tax year-end fast approaching, we look at how a thoughtful plan can unlock significant financial benefits. We explain how making a plan can boost your income, preserve your wealth and prepare...
Autumn Budget: Sweeping up the Budget announcements
Now the dust has settled on the Autumn Budget, there were plenty of changes buried in the small print that didn’t get much attention but could still affect people in a number of ways....
Salary sacrifice tax break on workplace pensions cut to £2,000
The Chancellor has announced a cap on the amount that can be shielded from employer and employee National Insurance contributions (NICs) when paying into a workplace pension using salary sacrifice. The change...
Mansion tax to hit homes worth £2 million or more
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a new tax on high-value homes in England, as part of her Autumn Budget. The annual levy, which will cost up to £7,500, will take effect from April 2028....
Salary sacrifice tax break on workplace pensions cut to £2,000
The Chancellor has announced a cap on the amount that can be shielded from employer and employee National Insurance contributions (NICs) when paying into a workplace pension using salary sacrifice. The change...
Chancellor cuts cash ISA limit to promote investment
Chancellor cuts cash ISA limit to promote investment As widely expected, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has taken an axe to the annual cash ISA allowance in a bid to encourage UK savers to...
Mansion tax to hit homes worth £2 million or more
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a new tax on high-value homes in England, as part of her Autumn Budget. The annual levy, which will cost up to £7,500, will take effect from April 2028....
Salary sacrifice tax break on workplace pensions cut to £2,000
he Chancellor has announced a cap on the amount that can be shielded from employer and employee National Insurance contributions (NICs) when paying into a workplace pension using salary sacrifice. The change...
Chancellor cuts cash ISA limit to promote investment
As widely expected, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has taken an axe to the annual cash ISA allowance in a bid to encourage UK savers to invest. In Wednesday’s Autumn Budget Reeves announced the £20,000 annual...
Mansion tax to hit homes worth £2 million or more
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a new tax on high-value homes in England, as part of her Autumn Budget. The annual levy, which will cost up to £7,500, will take effect from April 2028....
Autumn Budget: What small business owners need to know
The latest Budget, delivered amid unusual drama, landed with the promise of tackling NHS waiting lists, easing the cost of living, and reducing national debt. Marketed as a Budget “for working people,”...
The Budget lowdown – the topline announcements
The Chancellor has finally delivered her Autumn Budget and as trailed, there were significant tax increases but also boosts to spending in some areas. There will be winners and losers but undoubtedly...
The Budget lowdown – the topline announcements
After months of waiting and a seemingly constant stream of speculation and leaks – including the calamitous publication of the OBR forecast 30 minutes before the Chancellor stood up – the Autumn...
Could a buy-and-build strategy help you to grow your business?
At a glance Growth means different things to different businesses. It’s worth taking time to define what it means for you, and how best to achieve it. Once that’s clear, the strategic...
Do growth companies always mean good returns?
Growth companies have been at the heart of the record-breaking rise of US stock markets in recent times. The dominance of the Magnificent Seven in the S&P 500 –including household names such...
Are you being (pension) scammed?
Anyone can be the victim of a pension scam, no matter how financially savvy they think they are. Scammers are using ever more elaborate tricks To fool people so it’s important to...
Real Life Advice Report 2025: Chapter 2 – Parents postpone retirement plans to support children
Parents are under financial stress as a result of providing financial support to their children – with many believing they may need to delay their retirement plans. This is according to our...
The right age to start a business?
At Elephants Child, we work with business owners of all ages and being an entrepreneur at any stage in life is hard work. So, is there ever a “right time” to start...
Talk Money Week 2025 – It’s time to start the conversation about money
At a glance As a nation, the UK is notoriously tight-lipped about certain topics, and money is probably top of that list. Many people are reluctant to talk about their personal finances...
Living abroad – and what it could mean for taking your pension
Many people dream of retiring abroad, especially to a country that enjoys more sunshine, and maybe lower tax rates too. Over the past few years, there has been a huge increase in...
Real Life Advice Report 2025: Chapter 2 – Will my child ever buy a home, or be able to retire?
Almost a third of parents are pessimistic about their children’s financial futures, with fears ranging from their child never owning their own home to not being able to retire in later life....
Budget 2025: Beware of the rumours
As Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to unveil her second Budget next month, there’s plenty of speculation about what could be announced. Yet experience shows us that making decisions based on unfounded rumours...
Timing your business sale – November 2025 vs June 2026 – what’s the financial difference
Business owners looking to sell their business will face higher tax rates from April of next year – so could it be worth considering bringing a planned sale forward? At a glance ...
Are we living in a bubble?
Financial bubbles form when asset prices disconnect from fundamentals and jump to unsustainable levels. They have been part of the investment landscape since financial markets were first regulated. Some high-profile voices (Bank...
Real Life Advice Report 2025: Chapter 1 – Why milestones often spark the search for financial advice
Almost half of people seeking financial advice say that one of life’s milestones – from retirement to buying a home – is a key reason. This is according to the findings of...
Bonds made simple – a beginner’s guide to the world’s largest asset class
Bonds have long been seen as the backbone of a balanced investment portfolio – and traditionally the quiet partner to more volatile equities. Yet Liz Truss’s 2022 ‘mini-budget’ and the September 2025...
What could the Autumn Budget mean for growing SMEs? Thinking ahead with head, heart and hand
Rachel Reeves’s Autumn Budget could unveil plenty of changes for business owners. The government has already said it will use the fiscal event on 26 November to deliver an update on reforming...
Protect your estate: strategies to reduce inheritance tax
You’ve worked hard for wealth, so why not protect it? Find out how you can protect your estate, lower your IHT liability and pass on more money to your loved ones. At...
Real Life Advice Report 2025: Chapter 1 – The value of advice in a volatile world
The volatile geopolitical and economic backdrop is driving greater uncertainty about the future among nearly half of all adults. This is according to SJP’s 2025 Real Life Advice Report. It surveyed 8,000...
Living to age 100: How to make your pension last longer
More of us are reaching our 100th birthdays than ever before. While a letter from the King may seem exciting, funding a long and comfortable retirement requires careful planning. We explore what...
Why retention is key to business growth
Chloe Carey, HR Consultant at business growth advisory firm Elephants Child, shares her thoughts on the importance of retaining the right staff to support business growth – and why it all starts...
Essential guide for business owners: Start with the end in mind – put a shareholder agreement in place today
When you are starting out in business there are many responsibilities that demand your attention. One that may not seem important in the early days, especially if you get along well with...
In an age of US and tech dominance does diversification still matter?
At a glance In an uncertain world, investors should consider the possibility of a less attractive market outlook. Furthermore, recent US Q2 earnings updates show that apart from technology, led by the...
Our charges explained
On 26th August 2025, changes are being made to our charging structure to give you greater clarity and make it easier to compare our charges. We’ll be separating the charges for each...
What is the right age to think about selling your business?
When is the right time to start thinking about selling your business? It’s a question many entrepreneurs avoid until they’re either forced into a decision or feel too burned out to continue....
Navigating the impact of the changes to tax reliefs for farmer owners
More than 6,000 agricultural, forestry and fishing businesses have closed in the past 12 months according to the Office for National Statistics, as concerns over changes to tax reliefs mount. The government...
Investing – the skill in doing (almost) nothing
At a glance: We’ve never had such easy access to financial news. This is making it harder than ever to block out the noise Short-term emotional reactions can have long-term negative consequences...
Setting the foundations to expand your business
Kevin Petley, Business Growth Advisor at Elephants Child regularly works with businesses in developing plans for expansion. He shares his insights and tips for other business owners looking to grow. At a...
What’s the cost of a comfortable retirement?
How much do I need to retire? By the time we reach 55, many of us begin to prioritise pension planning, and this question often tops our minds. With inflation rates still...
Mastering business growth: Your essential guide to finances and funding
Finances and funding are a vital aspect of successfully growing your business. Martin Brown, CEO of business growth advisory Elephants Child*, explores some key questions business owners have on this topic. At a...
How you can beat the 60% tax trap
If you’ve just joined the 4% of UK individuals with an income of £100,000 or more, congratulations. It’s a personal achievement that likely took years of hard work, late nights and careful...
Essential guide to annuities: what you need to know for retirement planning
Why annuities are back in fashion In an uncertain world, we like certainty. And an annuity can offer just that – a guaranteed regular income for as long as you live, or...
Essential guide to annuities: what you need to know for retirement planning
Why annuities are back in fashion In an uncertain world, we like certainty. And an annuity can offer just that – a guaranteed regular income for as long as you live, or...
Pensions for children – what you need to know
Pensions for children – what you need to know 15 July 2025 4 minutes If you set up a child pension while your children are young, you’re putting them on the path...
Changing dynamics and the rise of UK share buybacks
With the popularity of share buybacks exploding in the UK, we explore when and why a company might choose buybacks over dividends, and what they mean for investors. At a glance As...
Why it’s not as hard as you think to make a Will
Making a Will is the best way to make sure your money, assets and property go to the people, or good causes, that you want them to. So why don’t more than...
One year of Labour… Will Trump row back on tariffs?
Stock Take Labouring on – are prospects gloomy or bright? After 12 months in power, Labour has had some difficult times – not least in recent weeks. Rebellions by MPs have seen...
Creating a marketing plan that works for your small business
All businesses, no matter their size, should have a marketing plan. It’s just as important as your business plan. Both should clearly explain what you want to achieve—and how you’ll get there....
Five things to consider amid market uncertainty
The uncertainty surrounding the situation in the Middle East is breeding a sense of unease in the markets and investors. In recent days, we have seen the price of oil fluctuate considerably....
Six ways to leave your business – a guide to SME exits
At a glance If you’re a UK SME owner thinking it’s time to hang up the boots, pour the gin, and sail off into a spreadsheet-less sunset, you’re not alone. Whether you’re...
Greater volatility, greater opportunities?
At a glance Strap in The increasingly uncertain world before us will lead to greater market volatility, says Howard Marks, co-founder and co-chair of one of SJP’s specialist external fund managers, Oaktree...
Spending Review – are wealth taxes on the horizon?
At a glance Labour’s first Spending Review in 18 years was long awaited but had few surprises. But more relevant for many is what this review is likely to mean for the...
Build your business on solid foundations – don’t overlook the business basics of management and control
ouis Cooper, Board, Governance and Risk Advisor at Elephants Child, provides insight and a range of practical ideas that business owners need to consider as they take forward-looking steps to business expansion....
What is the seven year rule in Inheritance Tax?
At a glance Not all inheritances happen once you’ve died. Gifting larger sums of money to loved ones while you’re still alive is both a practical and tax-smart way to get money...
Overcoming market access and competition challenges to grow your business
At a glance Several key factors can affect or restrict the ability of a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) to grow, including internal capabilities along with external factors. These include: Successfully navigating...
Navigating the summer holidays as a small business owner
At a glance As a small business owner, taking time off is essential not just for your well-being, but also for maintaining the productivity and happiness of your workforce. Planning ahead ensures...
Can government bonds come out on top in a tariff war?
At a glance A troubled US bond market As the political volatility continues and the trade war between China and the US shows little sign of abating, fluctuations in the bond market...
When do I need to start saving for retirement?
At a glance There are two key questions people tend to ask retirement. “How much money do I need?” and “Have I left it too late to start saving?” Both million dollar...
Retirement planning: how to maintain your living standards
At a glance: A lucrative professional-services career allows you to enjoy a high standard of living during your working life. But what about when you retire? According to forecasts, around one in...
How to expand your business despite economic headwinds
At a glance Steve Bird, Business Growth Advisor at Elephants Child, lays out what he thinks business owners need to consider when planning expansion in 2025. Challenges in the current economic climate...
Unforeseen consequences: How far reaching will US tariffs be?
At a glance: The moves by the US to implement tariffs on trading partners is likely to have many unforeseen impacts, according to investment experts at SJP. According to the US Census...
Your tax checklist for the year ahead
At a glance 2024 saw the new Labour government announce a raft of changes to many key taxes, including rises in Capital Gains Tax and Employer NI contributions – and sweeping changes...
Why it’s time to start talking long term care with your family
Feeling financially and emotionally responsible for the welfare of both children and parents can feel like being caught between a rock and a hard place. Financial advice can be invaluable in finding...
Protect your loved ones with tax-efficient planning
Nobody can predict your future, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for it. Protecting your family and your assets brings reassurance that, whatever happens, everything you care about is properly safeguarded....
Silver linings in the Spring Statement?
UK economic growth prospects may look anaemic but there were glimmers of positivity in the government’s Spring Statement. Although the Office for Business Responsibility (OBR) downgraded expected growth from 2% to 1%...
Investing in small companies: making a big difference?
At a glance When investing in equity markets, size can have a big impact on volatility and risk. The smaller end of the market can be buffeted by overall movements more than...
Is it too late to start saving for retirement at 60?
At a glance ‘When can I afford to stop working?’ It’s the question most of us start asking ourselves, when we reach our fifties or sixties. There are now more families with...
The importance of talent acquisition and retention for SMEs
SME business owners face numerous challenges, not least when it comes to tackling organisational design (Org Design). Failing to address some of the key elements of Org Design can make it difficult...
Your family financial to-do list for 2025
At a glance Thinking about money as a family We believe financial planning and advice is a family affair. More and more of us want to use our money to create family...
Top five tips for starting a successful business
At a glance Richard Murray, Chief Commercial Officer with Elephants Child regularly meets businesses of all shapes, sizes and at various stages of their journey, helping them to grow and develop. He...
Using pensions and ISAs to reduce your tax bill
At a glance Although the Government has pledged not to raise taxes for working people, many of us will face higher tax bills as a direct result of the Autumn Budget. So...
What do we mean by ‘systematic investing’?
At a glance Historically, most investors putting their money into a fund have had two options. On the one hand, discretionary active funds see managers choosing investments to buy and sell. They...
Exit options for business owners in 2025
Given the monumental impact of political elections around the world, there has arguably never been a greater need to lead and take control of your business, to bring fresh thinking and to...
Getting on top of Capital Gains Tax
Last year’s Budget changes means it’s more important than ever to get on top of Capital Gains Tax (CGT), so you can manage your assets as tax-efficiently as possible. At a glance...
Why set up a personal pension if you’re self-employed
If you’re self-employed, setting up your own pension can give you greater freedom, flexibility and peace of mind about your long-term future. At a glance Once upon a time we didn’t pay...
Growing your business through your existing client bank
Learn more about four key strategies to grow your business, the upsides and risks of each one, and tools you can use to help you to expand via your chosen approach. At...
Tax planning strategies business owners should know
From start-up to sale and exit, tax planning is central to running a successful small business. Discover the tax strategy tips that’ll help you make the most of your finances. At a...
Unforeseen consequences: How far reaching will US tariffs be?
At a glance: Global supply chains may be a casualty of the US tariff actions, extending its impact beyond just the directly affected countries. Experts at SJP explore the potential long-term ramifications...
Unforeseen consequences: How far reaching will US tariffs be?
At a glance: Global supply chains may be a casualty of the US tariff actions, extending its impact beyond just the directly affected countries. Experts at SJP explore the potential long-term ramifications...
Could a Legacy Preservation Trust help minimise your IHT bill?
We all want to leave the best legacy we can to those we love. There are some easy steps you can take during your lifetime to protect your estate from Inheritance Tax liability. ...
How you can maximise your pension contribution
At a glance Understanding and using your full range of tax breaks on ISAs, pensions, dividends and capital gains will help boost your pension pot, ready for your retirement. Both pension and ISA annual allowances offer...
Passive – Active: it’s not either/or
At a glance: The basic argument for active management is that skilled managers can identify winners and avoid losers in the stock market, delivering a better return than the market itself. Meanwhile,...
Passive – Active: it’s not either/or
At a glance: The basic argument for active management is that skilled managers can identify winners and avoid losers in the stock market, delivering a better return than the market itself. Meanwhile,...
Top tips for maximising your ISA returns
Getting the most from your ISAs while ensuring the right mix of Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs, will make your savings and investments work as hard as possible. You still have...
People first: Investing time in your team fuels business growth
At a glance The right people and structure are essential for ambitious business owners who want to achieve growth. Good managers understand and emphasise the value of their people, recognising them...
