Tuesday 26 August 2014

STRIVING TO MEET EXPECTATIONS

From our surveys we understand that what the majority of our clients value most from us is our advice on financial matters, utilising our extensive knowledge and long experience over the last 30 plus years.

Those who have used us before know they can rely on us time and time again to provide a high quality service. Some of the recent client comments we have received:

“I would have no hesitation in recommending you. Thank you for all the excellent service over the years.”         – Mr I B of Cambridgeshire     

“We have dealt with Sovereign Finance for over 10 years and we have always been impressed with their attitude, as well as their ability to deliver market leading deals for our mortgages.”
 – Mr & Mrs PJF of Tonbridge


“We have always found them (Sovereign Finance) to be very efficient and helpful.”
 – Mr & Mrs JBF or Worthing


































Monday 18 August 2014

WORKPLACE PENSIONS FACE A LOGJAM

The legislation requiring all employers to set up a pension scheme for their employees, and requiring both employers and employees to contribute to it, continues to roll out. In 2014 it largely affects employees with between 50 and 250 employees. Next year it will start affecting the smaller employers. As there are thousands of them, this is likely to mean a logjam as regards pension providers and advisers.


As there are significant financial and legal penalties that can be levied on employers who do not fulfil their obligations, our advice is for employers to plan ahead. We will only be able to assist a limited number of employers and will give preference to those who are existing clients. Please contact Mr Arie Stuijt here at Sovereign for further information.

Monday 11 August 2014

PROTECTING YOUR CASH DEPOSITS

Most people are aware that cash deposits in UK banking institutions are protected up to £85,000 in each account (£170,000, if a joint account). This is through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. In the event of a claim the FSCS is required to refund the monies lost within 7 days. What is not broadly known, however, is that the £85,000 level of protection is only available for each banking group.


For example the Lloyds Banking Group includes Lloyds Bank, the AA, the Bank of Scotland, Capital Bank, the Halifax, Birmingham Midshires, Intelligent Finance, Saga and St James Place Bank.


This means that if you have deposits in several of the above, you are only protected for one total
amount of £85,000. To find out more visit the FSCS website at www.fscs.org.uk.


Monday 4 August 2014

EQUITY RELEASE CHANGES

With the other changes occurring, there are also some new Equity Release options which permit the individuals taking them out to make payments back into them so as to limit or eliminate any increase in the amount owed.