Saving Matters

Imagine a world without a smart phone? Has anyone under the age of 25 ever had the need for an A-Z, disposable camera or a pocket diary?

Some of you will be familiar with the concept of a fund’s net asset value (NAV) which tallies up the assets and liabilities in an investment portfolio and provides a net worth figure that you can then compare over time. If you are like me, you might try to figure out your own personal NAV by using a spreadsheet to keep track of your income and spending to make sure your personal finances are on track.

With increased fee and margin compression, investment managers are turning to innovative solutions to meet the business questions of the day. How does the potential of AI fit into this?

Fraudsters and criminals have exploited the uncertainty of the COVID-19 lockdown to scam savers and investors. But how, and what should firms be on the lookout for to protect investors’ money?

In the COVID-19 operating environment, operational resilience is back at the top of the agenda. Take a look at the conclusions of our Operational Resilience Committee’s Business Services Working Group and the new guidance we’ve just issued.

Whether you love it or don’t understand it: you just can’t ignore it. I’m talking about tech.

In the run-up to the end of the tax year, savers across the UK look to take advantage of their tax-free ISA allowance, choosing to put their money away in cash or shares. This year however take up was more muted, with coronavirus prompting caution amongst savers during this period. 

The coronavirus outbreak has represented what is undoubtedly the sternest test for financial markets since 2008. But as well as a challenge, it has also provided an opportunity for financial instruments to demonstrate their resilience. A paper published today by the IA demonstrates how this has been the case for Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).

Research tells us that working long hours not only affects our wellbeing and productivity, but a lack of regular downtime can significantly deplete our reserves and resilience. In this latest blog post to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, Pauline Hawkes-Bunyan discusses personal resilience and how firms can support their employees.

As we enter the sixth week of lockdown, many of us may have adapted to this new normal, but there can be no doubt it has been an extremely difficult time for families and businesses struggling with the unprecedented circumstances.