FINANCIAL NEWS

Succession planning checklist

Ten essential questions every business owner should ask

Succession planning is more than just a safety net for your business; it’s a strategic move that ensures your company can thrive for years to come. Whether you’re planning to retire, take a step back, or simply prepare for the unexpected, establishing a solid foundation for a smooth transition is essential. Yet, many business owners postpone this critical process, uncertain of where to begin or how to evaluate their readiness.
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Estate planning and Inheritance Tax

Protecting your family’s financial security, your business’s stability, and your employees’ livelihoods

Owning a business often leaves little time to contemplate what may happen in the future. While day-to-day management and growth take centre stage, considering the long-term effects of unforeseen events is crucial. A well-thought-out estate plan ensures that your business and loved ones are protected, regardless of what occurs.
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Business Relief

Maximise your legacy with smart strategies to save on Inheritance Tax

Inheritance Tax (IHT) can significantly lower the value of your estate. Currently, Business Relief (BR) is available to business owners who maintain qualifying business assets for at least two years and continue to hold them until their death.
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Wealth transfers of financial legacies

Are you among the many families unprepared and lacking structured plans?

The world is on the verge of an unprecedented intergenerational wealth transfer, with projections estimating that by 2047, an astonishing £5.5 trillion will change hands[1]. Despite this monumental shift, many families remain unprepared, lacking structured plans to ensure their financial legacies are preserved or distributed according to their wishes.
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“Grey divorce”

Understanding the financial impacts of divorce over 50

Divorce later in life can be a complex and emotionally taxing process, particularly for couples over the age of 50. Wealth derived from property often takes centre stage in these discussions, as it typically represents the most significant financial asset that couples possess. According to recent research, 11% of couples experiencing a ‘grey divorce’ utilise funds from their property, whether by selling it or accessing equity release, to cover the costs of separation[1]. This statistic highlights the crucial role that property plays, not merely as a home, but as an essential financial resource.
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How would you cover some or all of the cost of an Inheritance Tax liability?

Especially when your primary aspiration is to pass on as much wealth as possible to loved ones

Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning is essential for managing your estate effectively and ensuring the wellbeing of your loved ones. Changes highlighted in last year’s Autumn Budget Statement 2024 have further emphasised this concern, with significant amendments to Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) from April 2026. Moreover, pensions previously exempted from IHT will now be subject to a 40% charge from April 2027.
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Empowering your retirement savings

Understanding how SIPPs can help you maximise your retirement investments

When planning for retirement, utilising a pension is one of the most effective ways to secure your financial future. The generous tax relief offered on pension contributions makes options like SIPPs (Self-Invested Personal Pensions) particularly advantageous. Understanding how they work, if appropriate, can help you maximise your retirement investments.
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Trust in your future

Is now the time to consider protecting and managing your wealth for future generations?

A trust can be an effective solution for many individuals and families aiming to protect and manage their wealth. Trusts provide a structured method for transferring assets to beneficiaries, especially across generations, while ensuring the funds are utilised for their intended purposes. However, trusts are not universally suitable, and their complexity necessitates careful consideration and planning.
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It’s good to talk

How to approach financial conversations with older family members

Discussing finances is not always easy, particularly with older family members. Nevertheless, these conversations are essential for alleviating stress and ensuring everyone’s long-term wellbeing. Whether it involves managing unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, or addressing insufficient savings, financial challenges can weigh heavily on ageing relatives. Families can work towards smoother transitions as circumstances evolve by engaging in open discussions and planning ahead.
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Maximising the end of the UK tax year 2024/25

Time is running out to fully capitalise on tax-saving opportunities

The UK tax year is a well-structured framework governing tax assessment and collection. It begins on 6 April and runs until 5 April the following year. As we approach the end of the 2024/25 tax year, maximising available opportunities is essential to make the most of your finances.
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Contact us

D O'Kane Financial Services Ltd
137 High Street
Gorleston, Great Yarmouth
Norfolk NR31 6QX

t: 01493 604646
e: info@dokanefinancialservices.co.uk

Regulatory information

D O'Kane Financial Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA financial services reg no. 623871.

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) is an agency for arbitrating on unresolved complaints between regulated firms and their clients. Full details of the FOS can be found on their website at www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.

Registered Office Address: 137 High Street, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 6QX. Company Registration Number: 08932631.