“Simon Cowell says giving up mobile phone has made him happier”

Jun 12, 2018 | In the news

An independent (financial adviser’s) view

Simon Cowell’s sanctimonious announcement that he’s ‘given up’ smartphones brought forth a flurry of debate about their evils. Yes, they have their downsides, although uncommunicative teenagers with finger RSIs are surely nothing new. But I love the fact that I can effectively carry my business in my pocket, can listen to a book or the radio, watch TV or a film wherever I go, can take fantastic photos and videos which I can instantly send to anyone, anywhere, can communicate with my family in several different ways, see how far I’ve walked and run, be directed anywhere in any country by my daughter’s voice…and I probably only use half of the stuff my ‘phone can offer. And although saintly Simon is ‘phone-less, I’d guess he has several PAs with several ‘phones nearby at any given time.

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“Reeves backs down on plans to cut ISA limit”

“Reeves backs down on plans to cut ISA limit”

So it looks as though Cash ISAs are safe for the moment (FTM – is that a thing?) Rachel has apparently ‘bowed to pressure’ from the banks and building societies and decided not to reduce the allowance to £4,000 for cash and to keep the £20,000 parity with Stocks and Shares ISAs. Bowed also to common sense, I’d say.

“Two thirds of adults are worried about care costs in later life”

“Two thirds of adults are worried about care costs in later life”

A dichotomy/dilemma here. Two thirds of adults are probably right to be worried about the cost of care, which is huge and getting more so. Many of those currently worrying will have had first-hand experience with their own parents, which will have focused their minds on their own possible future.

“Why most won’t need to worry about IHT on pensions”

“Why most won’t need to worry about IHT on pensions”

Many a government has made the point that only a minority will be affected by this or that tax change or tinker. It is, however, both perception and aspiration which are important, and they are what makes IHT the ‘most hated’ of all taxes – along with all the others, of course.