Author: Charles Mills

Wealth Management and Financial Planning Adviser

Your Essential Guide to the UK State Pension

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 7 October 2024
No Comments on Your Essential Guide to the UK State Pension

Your Essential Guide to the UK State Pension

“A generous basic state pension is the least a civilised society should offer those who have worked hard and saved through their whole lives” — George Osborne

5 min read

Your Essential Guide to the UK State Pension

“A generous basic state pension is the least a civilised society should offer those who have worked hard and saved through their whole lives” — George Osborne

5 min read

Receiving the UK State Pension is an important milestone for millions of people across the UK, and even those abroad. Reaching State Pension Age (SPA) represents the age at which individuals become eligible to claim their State Pension.

A State Pension is a government-provided financial benefit designed to help people during retirement.

Understanding the state pension, how it’s changing, and its implications is crucial for anyone planning their future finances.

UK State Pension Changes on 6 April 2016

The first important point about the UK State Pension is that it changed on the 6th April 2016 to become the “New State Pension” for those who reach State Pension age from that date onwards. This includes men born on or after 6th April 1951 and women born on or after 6th April 1953.

Before the 6th April 2016, there was the “Basic State Pension” which was for those who reached the State Pension age before that date.

As you will already be receiving the Basic State Pension if you were eligible (thus hopefully already know how much you should be receiving!), we will be looking at the New State Pension in this article.

Who is Eligible?

The New State Pension is a regular payment from the UK government to people who have reached the qualifying age after 6th April 2016 and have made sufficient National Insurance contributions (NICs) over their working life.

‘Sufficient’ NICs means that you have at least 10 qualifying years of contributions, with 35 qualifying years of contributions being required for the full New State Pension.

The UK State Pension is separate from any workplace or private pensions that you may have and, as of the date of this article, is not means-tested, so everyone with enough qualifying years, and has reached State Pension Age, is eligible.

What Is the Current UK State Pension Age?

Remember, the State Pension Age is not fixed; it has been gradually rising due to increased life expectancy and demographic changes.

In addition, each year that the State Pension Age is increased is a year that the UK Government does not have to pay the State Pension. Therefore, this saves the UK Government a significant sum of money over time.

Currently, as of the date of this article, the UK State Pension Age is:

67 years for both men and women

However, if you were born before 6 April 1968, please see the below table:

We expect the State Pension Age to continue increasing over the next decades.

How Much Do You Receive?

The amount you receive under the New State Pension system (as of the 2023/2024 tax year) is up to £221.30 per week although this amount may increase based on annual reviews (see the “Triple Lock” below).

For those receiving the Basic State Pension (before 6th April 2016), the maximum is £156.20 per week, but they may also be eligible for additional pension benefits based on factors such as earnings and NICs.

What is the “Triple Lock”?

The “Triple Lock” is a system that was implemented by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition Government in the UK back in 2010 that ensures the UK State Pension kept pace with the rising cost of living.

Under the triple lock system, the State Pension increases each April in line with the higher of:

inflation in the September of the previous year, using Consumer Prices Index (CPI)
the average increase in total wages across the UK for May to June of the previous year
2.5%

Since July 2024, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said the Labour government will keep the triple lock until the end of the current Parliament.

Can You Claim Your State Pension Early?

In general, you cannot claim your UK State Pension before reaching the qualifying age.

The State Pension is not flexible like some workplace or private pensions, where early access may be available (albeit perhaps with certain reductions).

However, you are not obliged to claim your State Pension pension as soon as you reach the State Pension Age. Hence, you can defer it. This may increase your weekly payments when you do decide to claim it in future.

How to Check Your State Pension Age and Forecast

The easiest way to check when you will be eligible for the New State Pension and how much you may receive is to:

Use the government’s State Pension Age calculator online by clicking here.

Can You Still Work After Reaching State Pension Age?

You can continue to work after reaching the State Pension Age.

Your State Pension will not be affected by your earnings.

Furthermore, once you hit this age, you no longer need to pay National Insurance contributions on your income, which can make working more financially beneficial.

What Happens if You Do Not Qualify for the Full Pension?

If you do not have the full 35 years of National Insurance contributions, you might still be eligible for a partial pension.

If you wish to try and increase your pension entitlement, you can consider making Voluntary National Insurance Contributions.

These voluntary payments can fill any gaps in qualifying years you may have, therefore increasing your state pension entitlement. However, these are not suitable for everyone and you should take professional advice from Patterson Mills prior to making this decision.

The UK State Pension and Your Retirement Planning

The UK State Pension provides a foundational level of income in retirement, but it is unlikely to be enough to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in retirement.

Hence, it is crucial to think about additional savings, like your workplace pension, private pension(s), and general savings and investments to supplement the State Pension.

With State Pension ages around the world rising at varying intervals, it is vital to talk to Patterson Mills. Get in touch today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting to ensure you are making the right decisions for you.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Please note that all content within this article has been prepared for information purposes only. This article does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Always ensure you speak to a regulated Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, pensions, retirement, retirementage, statepension, ukstatepension, ukstatepensionage

Investments

FOREX Trading Explained

“Trading is very competitive and you have to be able to handle getting your b*tt kicked” — Paul Tudor Jones

3 min read

FOREX Trading Explained

“Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world” — Howard Zinn

3 min read

Currency exchange, often referred to as Forex (Foreign Exchange), is the world’s largest financial market.

It involves the trading of currencies against one another.

Every day, over USD 6 trillion is traded in the Forex market, making it the largest and most liquid financial market in the world.

How Does Forex Work?

Forex operates on a decentralised market where currencies are traded in pairs, such as GBP/USD or EUR/JPY. This means that when you buy one currency, you are simultaneously selling another.

The most popular currencies to trade include:

USD (US Dollar)
EUR (Euro)
GBP (British Pound)
JPY (Japanese Yen)
AUD (Australian Dollar)

Traders in the Forex market will often buy one currency whilst selling another, hoping its value will increase compared to the other in the pair, allowing them to sell it at a profit.

Conversely, they can also sell a currency expecting its value to drop, allowing them to buy it back at a lower price.

However, Forex trading can be highly risky due to unpredictable market fluctuations, economic events, and leverage, which can amplify both gains and losses.

Benefits of Forex Trading

Forex offers several key benefits:

24/7 Trading: The market is open 24 hours a day, five days a week, allowing traders from different time zones to participate at any time.
High Liquidity: Due to its significant size, the Forex market is highly liquid, meaning trades can be executed quickly at any time without much impact on prices.
Leverage: Many brokers offer high leverage, enabling traders to control large sums of money with relatively small investments, potentially amplifying returns.
Low Transaction Costs: Forex typically has low spreads (the difference between buy and sell prices), making it a cost-effective way to trade.

Risks of Forex Trading

Whilst Forex has its perks, as with everything there are risks:

High Volatility: Currency values can fluctuate rapidly due to economic data, political events, or market sentiment. This volatility can lead to substantial losses as well as gains.
Leverage Risks: While leverage can amplify profits, it also increases the potential for significant losses, sometimes beyond your initial investment.
Market Manipulation: As a decentralised market, Forex can be susceptible to manipulation, especially by large institutions or banks, impacting the value of currencies unpredictably.

Why Is Forex Important?

Forex trading plays a crucial role in international trade and investments.

It facilitates the conversion of one currency to another, allowing businesses to conduct cross-border transactions, tourists to exchange money, and investors to diversify their portfolios.

It also can present an opportunity for traders to make significant profit (or losses!) as they seek to grow their wealth.

Should You Trade FOREX?

If you want to find out more about how currency exchange impacts your personal investment strategy, get in touch with Patterson Mills today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting to ensure you are making the right decisions for you.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, FOREX, forextrading, traders, trading, tradingexplained

Investments

Your Guide to Dollar Cost Averaging

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 5 August 2024
No Comments on Your Guide to Dollar Cost Averaging

Your Guide to Dollar Cost Averaging

“People do dollar cost averaging because they have regret of making one big mistake” – Kenneth Fisher

3 min read

Your Guide to Dollar Cost Averaging

“People do dollar cost averaging because they have regret of making one big mistake” – Kenneth Fisher

3 min read

So you have a lump sum to invest. What now? Do you invest it all at once or bit by bit?

Will inflation, interest rates and further supply chain disruption fuel market volatility this year and impact on your lump sum?

Fear and worry are understandable, but trying to second-guess the impact of events – or even attempting to make a bet on them – rarely pays off and understandably can deter some people from investing.

What is Dollar Cost Averaging?

Dollar Cost averaging (or Franc cost averaging) involves investing a fixed amount of money at regular intervals, regardless of the market’s performance.

This means that, if you have 800’000, you would invest, for example, 80’000 a month for 10-months. Yes, even if the market is falling!

What this approach ensures is that you buy more shares when prices are low and fewer shares when prices are high. The aim is to lower your average ‘cost per share’ over time and smooth your returns by reducing the risk of buying on the ‘wrong’ day.

Creating Good Habits

Investing regularly is a highly effective way to benefit from Dollar cost averaging, but also instils good habits for saving and investing.

This comes from either the manual process of investing each month, or the far easier automation of your investments via a Standing Order or instruction.

Timing The Market

Investment professionals often say that the secret of good portfolio management is a simple one – market timing.

Namely, this means buying more on the days when the market goes down, and to sell on the days when the market rises.

As an individual investor, it is likely that you may find it more difficult to make money through market timing in quite the same way.

Historically, the overall direction of developed stock markets has been a continual rise in value over the very long term, punctuated by falls.

It is important not to let current global uncertainties affect your financial planning for the years ahead.

If you do stop or pause your investment planning, particularly during market downturns when people tend to panic, you can often miss out on opportunities to invest at lower prices.

Is Dollar Cost Averaging Useful If You Have Already Invested?

Actually, yes. Even if you have you have already invested your lump sum, Dollar cost averaging can be useful for you.

Dollar cost averaging can be used by those with an established portfolio to build exposure a little at a time to certain areas, whether that be more high risk or any sectors you wish to explore further.

How to Invest Your Lump Sum

Dollar cost averaging is a great strategy, though is not suitable for everyone.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to creating your investment plans.

Fortunately, Patterson Mills is here to discuss your investment goals and formulating the most effective strategy for you.

Why wait? A successful financial future awaits!

Get in touch with Patterson Mills today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting to ensure you are making the right decisions for you.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Past performance is not indicative of future returns.

Tags dollarcostaveraging, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, franccostaveraging, investmentsovertime, poundcostaveraging, smoothreturns, staggeredinvestments

Financial Planning

Do You Need An Emergency Fund?

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 22 July 2024
No Comments on Do You Need An Emergency Fund?

Do You Need An Emergency Fund?

“An emergency fund turns a crisis into an inconvenience” – Dave Ramsey

3 min read

Do You Need An Emergency Fund?

“An emergency fund turns a crisis into an inconvenience” – Dave Ramsey

3 min read

The concept of an emergency fund is often highlighted as essential.

But what exactly is an emergency fund, and why is it so important?

Perhaps more importantly, do you actually need one?

This article answers those questions and more, so make sure to read below.

What is an Emergency Fund?

An emergency fund is a reserve of money set aside to cover unexpected expenses or financial emergencies.

This could include sudden medical bills, car (or other) repairs, or job loss.

The primary purpose of an emergency fund is to provide a financial safety net, allowing you to handle unforeseen circumstances without resorting to high-interest debt or disrupting your long-term financial plans.

Why You Need an Emergency Fund

Financial Security

Having an emergency fund provides a sense of financial security.

It acts as a buffer against life’s uncertainties, reducing the stress and anxiety that come with unexpected expenses.

With an emergency fund, you are better prepared to handle financial shocks, ensuring that your day-to-day life is less likely to be disrupted.

Avoiding Debt

One of the significant advantages of having an emergency fund is avoiding debt.

Without a financial cushion, you might be forced to rely on credit cards or loans to cover unexpected costs.

This can lead to high-interest payments and a cycle of debt that’s difficult to break.

An emergency fund helps you avoid this pitfall, keeping your financial health intact and gives you peace of mind in the process.

How Much Should You Save?

General Guidelines

The amount you should save in your emergency fund can vary based on your personal circumstances.

A common recommendation is to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses.

This amount is generally sufficient to cover most financial emergencies, giving you enough time to recover from a job loss or significant expense.

Assessing Your Needs

Consider your lifestyle, job stability, and monthly expenses when determining how much to save.

If you have a more volatile income or higher expenses, you might aim for the higher end of the recommended range.

Conversely, if your job is very secure and your expenses are lower, a smaller emergency fund may suffice.

Building Your Emergency Fund

Start Small

Building an emergency fund can seem daunting, but starting small is key.

Begin by setting aside a manageable portion of your income each month.

Even small contributions add up over time, helping you gradually build a robust financial cushion.

Automate Savings

Automating your savings can make the process easier and minimise the effort required.

Set up a direct deposit or automatic transfer to your savings account.

This ensures that a portion of your income is consistently directed towards your emergency fund without requiring constant attention.

Why You May Not Need an Emergency Fund

Despite the usual need, in certain circumstances, having a dedicated emergency fund might not be necessary.

This could include situations where you have access to robust unemployment benefits, comprehensive insurance coverage, or other financial safety nets.

Understanding these alternatives can help you determine if an emergency fund is essential for your financial plan.

You Decide

Having an emergency fund is crucial for financial stability and peace of mind.

It provides a safety net that helps you manage unexpected expenses without falling into debt.

However, by assessing your needs, you can decide whether an emergency fund is suitable for you, or not.

Whilst it can still be suitable to have an emergency fund no matter what your circumstances, get in touch with Patterson Mills today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting to ensure you are making the right decisions for you.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy

Investments

Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 1 July 2024
No Comments on Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

“A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world” – Louis Pasteur

3 min read

Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

“A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world” – Louis Pasteur

3 min read

For those with a refined palate and an eye for quality, the world of fine wines can be an enticing investment opportunity.

Today, we will look at how you can build wealth through rare wine investments, for whom such investments may be suitable and, importantly, for whom they may not be!

If you have considered investing in rare wines, it is not often as easy as you may think. Read below to find out why.

Understanding the Wine Market

The rare wine market operates differently from traditional investment markets. It requires a deep understanding of the product you are buying (wine!), including its provenance, vintage, and quality.

The value of rare wines can appreciate over time, driven by factors such as limited supply, increasing demand, and the wine’s ageing potential. These factors can make it a stable investment over the longer-term, though there are risks with this style of investing that are not present with traditional asset classes.

Key Factors Influencing Wine Value

Several factors influence the value of rare wines, with they key factors being:

Vintage Quality: Exceptional vintage years produce wines with superior taste and ageing potential, thereby increasing the value.
Provenance: The wine’s history and authenticity significantly impact its market value. Well-documented provenance ensures the wine’s legitimacy.
Storage Conditions: Proper storage is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining the wine’s quality. Wines stored in optimal conditions are more likely to appreciate in value. This means that wines stored in your cellar at home, where the long-term conditions are unverifiable, may not benefit from large value increases.

Benefits of Investing in Rare Wines

Investing in rare wines offers several advantages such as diversification, the tangibility of the asset, and a relatively stable market.

Diversification into wines can be beneficial as the asset is not correlated with the returns of traditional assets. This helps you spread (and hopefully reduce) risk.

Furthermore, unlike stocks or bonds, you would be investing in physical assets, which means you are able to enjoy them whilst they appreciate in value.

Finally, the rare wine market is relatively stable, which can be a motivator for some.

Risks and Challenges

However, investing in rare wines also comes with risks and challenges about which you need to be aware before considering this asset.

Selling rare wines can be time-consuming, and finding the right buyer may take longer than anticipated. This means that, as with Real Estate for example, you may not be able to access your funds when you need them.

In addition, knowledge is power. This means that successful wine investment requires extensive knowledge of the wine market, vintages, storage conditions, and much more. This can be a difficult barrier to entry for an individual investor as it requires a large time commitment.

As with any physical asset, you also have costs that are not present with more traditional assets. In particular, storage costs, which are necessary to preserve the wine’s quality and value.

Building Your Wine Collection

To build a valuable wine collection, the following steps are vital:

Research, research and… research!
- It is inadvisable to enter this market if you are not willing and able to gain the knowledge that is required. Conduct thorough research on wine regions, vintages, and market trends. You may want to consider talking to professionals within the sector, too.
Purchase from Reputable Sources
- Buy wines from reputable auction houses, wine merchants, or directly from wineries. It can be very easy to be mis-led in this area with complex jargon, so make sure you only deal with reputable vendors.
Proper Storage
- Invest in a professional wine storage facility to ensure optimal ageing conditions. As mentioned, your home cellar will not cut it!

Cheers To Your Investments

Investing in rare wines can be a rewarding venture, though there are many risks and complexities that make this asset more specialist and far less common than, for example, stocks and bonds.

However, when done correctly, it is possible to profit from what could be a unique pathway to wealth.

Before you go diving into the world of rare wines, make sure to get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Our team are waiting to help you decide whether rare wines is an area in which you should invest, or not.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags buildingwealth, commodities, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing, investmentmanagement, rare, rarewine, wealth, wine

Investments

Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 17 June 2024
No Comments on Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

“The key to winning is poise under stress” – Paul Brown

3 min read

Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

“The key to winning is poise under stress” – Paul Brown

3 min read

Investing can be a rollercoaster which is frightening for many, and it is not uncommon for market fluctuations to cause stress and anxiety.

However, understanding the nature of investing can help manage these feelings to ensure your investments cause as little stress and anxiety as possible.

This article will give you the key things you need to know to maximise the enjoyment of your investing journey.

Why Can Investing Be Stressful?

Simply put, investing involves risk and uncertainty, which can be scary.

The fear of losing money can lead to stress and anxiety, and watching market volatility and constantly monitoring your portfolio can amplify these feelings.

The pressure to make the right investment decisions adds to the stress, as does the overwhelming amount of financial information available.

It is also possible to come across people claiming to have an ‘easy investing secret’ to make sure your money ‘only goes in one direction’ (up!) and remove the complexity issue, which can just add to the stress. Have these people really come across a secret that nobody else knows and can solve all your investing problems? The short answer is, no.

There are no secrets in the investing world (or at least, very few…) that could have significant impacts on your portfolio. This means that, were such easy tricks to exist, everyone would already be doing it!

The Cyclical Nature of Markets

Markets are inherently cyclical. They go through periods of growth (bull markets) and decline (bear markets).

If you wake up one day and see your portfolio has dropped by 1%, 3%, or 5%, but then increased by 1%, 3%, or 5% the next day (or higher / lower), do not worry. Behaviour such as this is normal.

Understanding that these cycles are normal and inevitable can help reduce stress.

Over Time Markets Have Gone Up

The good news is that, historically speaking, markets have trended upwards over the longer-term.

Naturally, past performance is not indicative of future returns, but it can be re-assuring for short-term anxiety and stress.

Remember, investing is a marathon, not a sprint.

Avoid Always Checking Your Portfolio

Constantly checking your investments can lead to unnecessary stress. Short-term market fluctuations can be misleading and may prompt impulsive decisions.

It is easy to become worried if your investments fall for one continuous week (or more), but if your time horizon is in another few years (which it hopefully is!), take time to breathe and relax.

Instead of constantly checking your investment value, set periodic reviews of your portfolio. This approach allows you to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed by daily market movements.

Accept That Your Investments Can Go Down

If you are involved in investing, you will hopefully have been told that your investments can go down.

Accepting that investments can lose value is critical. Markets will have ups and downs, and no investment is risk-free.

By understanding this, you can better prepare mentally for potential losses.

Up, Down, Left, Right, In What Direction Are Your Investments Going?

Investing can be stressful, but understanding market cycles and adopting a long-term perspective is key to managing stress and anxiety from your investments.

In addition, having a trusted Patterson Mills Financial Planner to help you navigate your investment journey can provide much needed peace of mind, especially in periods of low (or even negative) growth.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting. There has never been a better time to secure your financial future with Patterson Mills.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags anxiety, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing, investmentmanagement, stress

Financial Planning

How To Build a Strong Investment Portfolio in 2024

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 27 May 2024
No Comments on How To Build a Strong Investment Portfolio in 2024

How To Build a Strong Investment Portfolio in 2024

“Always keep your portfolio and your risk at your own individual comfortable sleeping point” – Mario Gabelli

3 min read

How To Build a Strong Investment Portfolio in 2024

“Always keep your portfolio and your risk at your own individual comfortable sleeping point” – Mario Gabelli

3 min read

Building a strong investment portfolio is essential for achieving your financial goals and ensuring you have the best possible chance to attain long-term wealth.

With 2024 having brought it’s own challenges and opportunities so far, it’s crucial to stay updated with the best practices.

So, today we are giving you our top 10 tips to building a robust investment portfolio.

1. Avoid Market Timing

Trying to time the market can be risky and often leads to suboptimal returns. Sure, you might get lucky, but sticking to a disciplined investment approach and avoiding making drastic changes based on market ‘noise’ is typically a sound strategy.

2. Assess Your Risk Tolerance

Before investing, take time to understand your risk tolerance. There is not a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to investing, as opting for a 100% equity index might work for your friends or people in online forums, but not be suitable for you. Investing is a personal exercise, and your decisions should be based on your profile and yours alone. Your risk tolerance is often calculated based on factors such as age, financial goals, and investment horizon.

3. Maintain a Long-Term Perspective

Investing is a long-term game. Avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations or the latest news headlines. Stay focused on your long-term financial goals.

4. Diversify Your Investments

Diversification is key to managing risk. Spread your investments across different asset classes such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities. This strategy helps mitigate losses in one area with gains in another.

5. Understand Tax Implications

Be aware of the tax implications of your investments. Utilise tax-efficient investment accounts, such as occupational or private pensions, to maximise your after-tax returns. Proper tax planning and taking advantage of tax-efficient strategies can enhance your investment performance.

6. Consider Global Exposure

You don’t have to limit your investments to your home country. Global exposure allows you to benefit from growth in different economies from around the world. Investing in international stocks and funds can also help with diversifying your portfolio further. Remember, there are increased risks with global exposure that, whilst not inherently an issue, it is important to make yourself aware.

7. Focus on Quality Assets

If you are looking to pick specific companies, invest in high-quality assets with strong fundamentals. Look for companies with solid balance sheets, consistent earnings growth, and competitive advantages.

8. Stay Informed

We mention this a lot, but financial education and literacy is paramount to successful financial planning. Make sure you stay up-to-date with market trends, economic news and what is going on in the world. Being informed helps you make better investment decisions.

9. Rebalance Your Portfolio

Rebalancing your portfolio involves ensuring your desired allocation is maintained on an ongoing basis. Sometimes, you may find a well-performing asset becomes a more significant percentage of your portfolio than you would like. Hence, rebalancing ensures that your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

10. Regularly Review Your Goals

Life changes occur quite frequently! Things like career shifts, children, or unexpected events can impact your investment strategy and your financial goals. Therefore, it may be more important to regularly review and update your financial goals than you might think. After you have done so, you could need to adjust your portfolio to reflect these changes and stay on track to meet your objectives.

Laying A Strong Foundation

Building a strong investment portfolio will usually require more than just the above list, though now you know the basics, you can work towards financial success with ease.

For bonus tip number 11, the best thing you can do to build a strong investment portfolio in 2024 is actually to get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting. Our experienced Advisers will ensure you tick off all the above-mentioned points and more.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags 2024, 2024investmenttips, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialplanning, growingwealth, independentfinancialadvice, investmentportfolio, investmenttips, portfolio

Investments

The Pros and Cons of Real Estate Investing

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 14 May 2024
No Comments on The Pros and Cons of Real Estate Investing

The Pros and Cons of Real Estate Investing

“Now, one thing I tell everyone is learn about real estate” ― Armstrong Williams

3 min read

The Pros and Cons of Real Estate Investing

“Now, one thing I tell everyone is learn about real estate” ― Armstrong Williams

3 min read

Real estate investing is a popular strategy for building wealth that involves purchasing, owning, and managing properties with the expectation of generating income or value appreciation over time.

Like any investment, it is not guaranteed to increase in value, and also has it’s own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Read below to find out what they are so you can make more informed decisions as to whether real estate investing is right for you.

Pros of Real Estate Investing:

Let’s get straight into it.

Here are some of the advantages to real estate investing:

Potential for High Returns: One of the primary attractions is its potential for high returns. Historically, real estate has shown steady appreciation in value over the long term, which in turn has provided significant capital gains. There is also the possibility to receive rental income from investment properties which can generate ongoing cash flow, thus further enhancing returns.
Compounding Returns with Leverage: The ability to borrow a significant percentage of an investment property’s purchase price can greatly increase total returns. For example, borrowing 75% with a real estate mortgage, secured on both the property and the rental income, would result in a 100% return on your invested capital after just a 25% increase in the property’s value (before applicable taxes).
Portfolio Diversification: Being separate from stocks and bonds, your investment portfolio can enhance its diversification with real estate. This is because real estate values often move independently of other assets, thereby helping to reduce overall portfolio risk and volatility.
Tax Advantages: Real estate investors often benefit from various tax incentives and deductions that can lower their overall tax liability. Expenses such as mortgage interest (excluding the UK), property taxes and insurance can often be deducted from rental income, reducing taxable income. Additionally, profits from the sale of investment properties may qualify for preferential capital gains tax treatment (excluding the UK), depending on the holding period or rules in your relevant jurisdiction.
Tangible Asset: Unlike stocks or bonds, which represent ownership or debt in a company, real estate is a tangible asset that you can see, touch, and control. Owning physical properties can provide a sense of security and control that can be appealing to those seeking more direct involvement in their investments. Along the same vein, real estate investments can offer the opportunity for hands-on management and improvement, allowing you to add value and increase returns.

Cons of Real Estate Investing:

We’re not here to waste time, here are the disadvantages!

Lack of Liquidity: One of the major drawbacks of real estate investing is its lack of liquidity compared to other asset classes. Unlike stocks or bonds, which can be bought and sold quickly, selling a property can be a time-consuming process that may take weeks, months, or even longer. Illiquidity can make it challenging for those wishing to access their capital quickly in times of need or take advantage of new investment opportunities.
High Upfront Costs: Real estate investments typically require a significant amount of capital upfront, including down payments, closing costs, and ongoing maintenance expenses. For many, this high barrier to entry can make real estate investing inaccessible or impractical. Financing real estate investments with mortgages can also introduce additional risks, such as interest rate fluctuations and leverage.
Risks From Leverage: Whilst borrowing to invest in property is often seen as a positive way of increasing returns, interest rate risks need to be managed carefully. The risk of interest costs exceeding rental income over time can be very real, especially during periods of rapidly rising interest rates. In such circumstances, exiting the investment may not be possible (see point 1 above) and so maintaining good cash reserves is vitally important.
Management and Maintenance: Owning and managing investment properties can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, requiring landlords to deal with tenant issues, property maintenance, and regulatory compliance. While hiring property management companies can alleviate some of these responsibilities, it comes with additional costs that can eat into overall returns. As well as this, vacancies, property damage, and unexpected repairs can negatively impact cash flow and profitability. Maybe not very ‘passive’ income after all..!
Market Risk: Real estate markets are subject to fluctuations and cycles, which can impact property values and rental demand. Economic downturns, changes in interest rates, and shifts in local market conditions can all affect the performance of real estate investments. You must carefully assess market risk and conduct thorough due diligence before committing capital to real estate to ensure you are making informed investment decisions.

Buy In or Steer Clear?

There are ways to invest in real estate without having to buy a property, such as through REITs, which can help with upfront and management costs, though the majority of the pros and cons remain the same.

It’s important to carefully weigh up these pros and cons when deciding whether real estate investing is right for you. How does it align with your overall financial goals, time horizon, risk tolerance and more?

Patterson Mills are here to help you answer these very questions (and more!) when it comes to considering real estate within your investment portfolio.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialplanning, growingwealth, independentfinancialadvice, property, propertyinvesting, propertypurchase, realestate, realestateinvesting

Investments

Currency Hedging: The Cost of Managing Risk

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 29 April 2024
No Comments on Currency Hedging: The Cost of Managing Risk

Currency Hedging: The Cost of Managing Risk

“Between calculated risk and reckless decision-making lies the dividing line between profit and loss” ― Charles Duhigg

4 min read

Currency Hedging: The Cost of Managing Risk

“Between calculated risk and reckless decision-making lies the dividing line between profit and loss” ― Charles Duhigg

4 min read

Businesses and investors are increasingly exposed to risks stemming from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Currency movements can impact the value of investments, affect profitability, and introduce uncertainty into international transactions.

However, there is a way to mitigate your exposure to currency risk, and this is through a strategy known as ‘hedging’.

For you, the investor, hedging is simple as it involves simply buying a fund that has ‘hedged’ in the name or fund literature.

Under the bonnet, currency hedging involves a range of financial instruments designed to mitigate the potential adverse effects of currency fluctuations on your investment portfolios, business revenues, and cashflows.

This article aims to help you make informed decisions about whether currency hedging is the right strategy for your investments, or not. So, read below to find out more!

What is Currency Hedging?

Currency hedging is a risk management strategy used to mitigate the impact of currency fluctuations on international investments or transactions.

It involves taking positions in the foreign exchange (FOREX) market to offset potential losses that can come from changes in exchange rates.

Currency hedging aims to protect against adverse movements in currency values that could erode the value of investments denominated in foreign currencies.

One common method of currency hedging is through the use of financial derivatives such as forward contracts, futures contracts, options, and swaps.

Essentially, by hedging a certain currency, you are taking a position on the future direction of that currency’s movements. This is akin to placing a bet on whether a particular currency will appreciate or depreciate. So, you are locking in a specific exchange rate to protect yourself from adverse currency movements.

These instruments allow you to lock in exchange rates at predetermined levels, providing certainty about future cash flows and reducing the uncertainty associated with currency risk. However, whilst currency hedging can help smooth out your returns and protect against losses in currency fluctuations, it also comes with costs and complexities that you need to consider carefully.

Is Currency Hedging Good or Bad?

The effectiveness of currency hedging depends on various factors, including your specific circumstances, market conditions, and investment objectives.

As mentioned, you are placing a bet on whether a particular currency will appreciate or depreciate, locking in a specific exchange rate, and you do not get to do this for free!

Just like any insurance policy, currency hedging requires paying a premium, typically in the form of management fees or transaction costs. These costs can then eat into your potential profits and diminish your returns (which is especially true if the currency movements do not move in your favour).

In some cases, currency hedging can provide valuable protection against currency risk, particularly for those with significant exposure to foreign markets or those holding international assets. You can even potentially enhance risk-adjusted returns over the long term whilst enjoying reduced volatility in your portfolio.

However, do not be fooled, hedging does not eliminate currency risk entirely and may not always be effective in volatile or unpredictable market conditions.

What’s more is that hedging decisions should not just be a quick thought of “I am investing in a foreign currency so I should buy a fund that implements hedging”. In reality, this decision requires careful consideration and expertise, and improper hedging strategies can result in unintended consequences or losses.

Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of currency hedging carefully before implementing any strategies. Fortunately, Patterson Mills is here to help, so contact us today!

Considerations You Need To Make

When evaluating whether currency hedging is suitable, there are several consideratinos for you to make.

Determine your risk tolerance and investment objectives
Find out the level of exposure to foreign currencies in your existing or planned portfolio
Consider the outlook for currency markets, economic fundamentals, and geopolitical developments that could impact exchange rates.
Evaluate the costs associated with currency hedging and compare them to the potential benefits.
1. This includes considering the impact of hedging costs on investment returns and whether the expected reduction in currency risk justifies the expenses incurred.
Assess the performance of different hedging strategies under various market scenarios and their historical effectiveness in managing currency risk.
1. Remember, past performance is not indicative of future performance
Consider the prevailing interest rate differentials between currencies
Consult with Patterson Mills

Could Topiary Help Your Investments?

Our Advisers at Patterson Mills understand the importance of currency risk management and offer tailored solutions to help you navigate the challenges of international markets and decide if hedging would be suitable for you.

Whether you’re looking to hedge currency exposure in your investment portfolio or protect your business from currency fluctuations, our team can provide the guidance and support you need.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags currency, currencyhedging, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialplanning, foreigncurrency, foreignexchange, fx, hedging, independentfinancialadvice

Financial Planning

Should You Rent or Buy Your Home?

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 15 April 2024
No Comments on Should You Rent or Buy Your Home?

Should You Rent or Buy Your Home?

“Some people look for a beautiful place. Others make a place beautiful” ― Hazrat Inayat Khan

3 min read

Should You Rent or Buy Your Home?

“Some people look for a beautiful place. Others make a place beautiful” ― Hazrat Inayat Khan

3 min read

In the never-ending debate between renting and buying a home, you won’t be surprised to read that there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on various factors unique to your circumstances.

That being said, once you have read this article you will have a much better idea of the considerations to make to find out which one suits you best!

Why Might You Rent a Home?

A key aspect of renting is that it offers the flexibility and freedom that buying does not. It’s a suitable option for those who prefer not to be tied down to a particular location or property for an extended period of time. You would have the flexibility to move to different city or country without the hassle of selling a property. This can be an excellent choice if you are unsure about your long-term plans and prefer not to commit to a specific location.

Moreover, there are far fewer upfront costs involved when renting compared to buying that means there is a lower financial barrier to entry when renting. Whilst you may need to pay a deposit and possible X month’s rent in advance, there are usually much higher upfront expenses involved for homeowners. So, renting can be advantageous for those who are saving up for a down payment or prefer to invest their money elsewhere.

Subject to your rental agreement, you are likely to not be responsible for property maintenance, repairs, or other unexpected expenses associated with homeownership. Instead these tasks could be handled by your landlord or property management company, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life without the added burden of maintenance.

Why Might You Buy a Home?

On the other hand, homeownership could also be beneficial, and one of the most significant benefits is building equity.

Unlike renting, where monthly payments go to pay your landlord, if you were to buy your home, you would (hopefully!) gradually build equity in your property over time through either paying off a mortgage or your property increasing in value.

This can serve as a valuable asset and source of wealth accumulation, and from this you may even have the opportunity to leverage your property’s equity for other purposes, such as home improvements, education expenses or otherwise (talk to your Patterson Mills Adviser before doing so!).

Additionally, you would have the freedom to customise and personalise your living space according to your preferences. From knocking out walls to landscaping, the autonomy to make such changes is yours without having to seek permission from a landlord.

Owning your home can also provide a sense of stability and security, knowing that you have a place to call your own and be part of a local community of your choice. This is often seen as a milestone and significant investment for many individuals and families.

Buying Versus Renting: Quick Comparisons

When comparing buying and renting, several factors come into play that can influence the decision-making process. Below you will find a simple list of comparisons between the two.

Financial implications
1. Renting typically involves lower costs though does not have the opportunity for wealth accumulation through the property value or paying off any mortgage.
2. Buying a home often requires a substantial down payment, higher ongoing costs and maintenance. However, when you own your home, you have the potential for equity accumulation, whilst renting does not provide this wealth-building opportunity.
3. The right option here for you cannot be said in this article, as it is specific to your financial situation. Buying a home wins on the opportunity to build wealth over time, whilst renting (though not the case in all instances) is likely to win on affordability.
  1. This can change greatly subject to the areas in which you are looking to buy or rent and other circumstances, so make sure to do your own research or talk to your Patterson Mills Adviser.
Flexibility
1. Renting provide more flexibility in terms of mobility, allowing you to easily relocate or adjust your living arrangements without the burden of selling a property or having any ties to a specific area.
2. Buying offers stability and flexibility in terms of having the freedom to personalise and invest in the property.
3. Renting wins on having the most mobility flexibility, whilst buying wins on personalisation.
Stability and Community
1. Renting may struggle here, subject to how long you stay in one place and whether your landlord continues to rent the property in which you live. Whilst it would indeed be possible to remain in one place for a significant period of time and build valuable friendships in your local area, you may find a lack of stability in knowing how long you would be able to remain, or knowing that you won’t remain for long.
2. Buying often allows you to feel safe and secure knowing that your property is your own and enables you to have a sense of security and stability as it would be your own decision as to whether you leave the area in which you live, or remain.
3. Renting has potential, though in this category would be subject to your rental agreement and the landlord’s future objectives for the property. Buying is likely to provide more security and stability, and so wins on this category.

Which One Is Right For You?

Market conditions and local real estate trends play a significant role in the comparison between buying and renting. In some markets, buying may be more financially advantageous due to lower mortgage rates, favourable home prices, and potential tax benefits. Conversely, in areas with high property prices or volatile housing markets, renting may be a more practical and cost-effective option in the short term.

Evaluating these market dynamics and considering future projections can help yo make informed decisions that align with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.

The best part is, you don’t have to work it out alone.

Patterson Mills is here to help you every step of the way and assist you in making the decision that is right for you.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags buy, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialplanning, home, house, independentfinancialadvice, mortgage, property, propertypurchase, rent, rental, renting