Recent surveys and studies suggest approximately 60% of adults in the UK do not have a will. Without a will, your estate will be dealt with under the laws of intestacy, which might not be the legacy you intended.

Are you looking for income, long-term investment growth, cash for a holiday in a few years, or boosting your retirement funds? These goals are likely to indicate what level of investment risk you are likely to be comfortable with.

The start of a New Year, one fresh with possibilities, seems like the perfect time to turn over a new leaf. We all know there are things we should start doing, things we could do better, and things we probably need to stop.

As we reach the end of 2024, investors have much to reflect on and deliberate.

Many thanks to all the readers who replied to my last email in which I talked about your most important transition – retirement. Nick Ledingham, former director and owner of the accountancy firm Morris & Co (now DJH) wanted to add a fourth question.

We face many important transitions during our lifetime. Arguably, the most important is the transition from our working life into retirement. 

On October 30th, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, plans to deliver a UK budget showing "real ambition". She’s also on record promoting the idea of "asking those with broader shoulders to pay a bit more".

This week, my wife and I have been discussing finances with our eldest son who is about to go to university. We’re keen that he has enough to cover his costs and enjoy new experiences but also want to ensure that he doesn’t have too much.

We are now halfway through the year and I’ve enjoyed reviewing the first six months. A lot has happened in our team – most importantly Emily has had a baby boy.

It’s only when you see and understand the full extent of your financial picture that you can start making important life decisions, like reducing your work hours or taking more holiday – without the worry of running out of money.

A while back, I met with Simon Hocken from Now Breathe, who has been coaching dentists for 20 years and has written hundreds of newsletters to dentists.

This inspired me to start writing my own – so here it is!