UK Financial Changes: Alcohol Duty to Smart Meters
From alcohol duty hikes to smart meter compensation, discover nine crucial financial updates affecting UK households throughout February 2026.
Category : Budget Finance
Salary Sacrifice Rule Changes Hit Modest Incomes Harder
New OBR analysis reveals upcoming salary sacrifice pension changes could impact more workers than initially thought, with middle-income earners particularly vulnerable.
UK Inheritance Tax: Will You Give or Get?
The UK inheritance tax debate intensifies as families face potential changes. Will you be a giver or receiver of this controversial levy?
BoE Holds Rates in 5:4 Split, Bailey Casts Decisive Vote
The Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee voted 5:4 to keep interest rates at 3.75%, with Governor Andrew Bailey using his casting vote. Despite rising unemployment and falling inflation, the majority opted for caution.
CGT Discount to Cost $250bn, Favours Wealthy
New Parliamentary Budget Office figures reveal Australia's capital gains tax discount will cost nearly $250bn over the next decade, with the top 1% of taxpayers receiving 60% of benefits. As Labor considers reforms, pressure mounts to address housing affo
Pension Minister: More Reforms Needed After Auto-Enrolment
Pensions minister Torsten Bell acknowledges auto-enrolment's success in doubling savings but warns more action is needed to address gaps in pension coverage and boost UK investment.
Premium Bonds February Draw: Winning Chances Revealed
Analysis of Premium Bonds February draw results showing prize distribution changes, winning probabilities, and comparison with traditional savings accounts for UK investors.
UK-US Aid Cuts Linked to Preventable Child Deaths
A new study finds that aid reductions by the UK, US, and other donor nations have contributed to avoidable child mortality in developing countries, highlighting the human cost of budget cuts.
Navigating Potential UK Interest Rate Rises
As speculation mounts over a potential interest rate rise, experts weigh in on the best strategies for individuals and businesses to prepare and adapt in the current economic climate.
Alcohol Duty Rise: Price Increases for Drinks
Rachel Reeves's alcohol duty increase comes into force, adding up to £1.10 to wine bottles and 2p to pints. Industry warns of inevitable price rises for consumers.
Alcohol Duty Rise: Beer, Wine & Spirits Prices to Increase
Chancellor Rachel Reeves's alcohol duty increase takes effect Sunday, raising taxes on wine, spirits, and beer. Industry warns of price hikes for consumers.
Chalmers: May Budget to Tackle Inflation and Strengthen Economy
Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers outlines how the upcoming May budget will address inflation while boosting economic resilience, rejecting opposition claims and highlighting tax reform plans.
Inflation Threatens Labor Agenda, Treasurer Under Fire
Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers faces mounting pressure as rising inflation questions government spending, potentially derailing Labor's second-term economic plans amid growing voter discontent.
Retirement Option Scrapped in Lifetime ISA Overhaul
The Treasury plans to overhaul the Lifetime ISA, removing retirement savings and changing bonus payments to support first-time buyers exclusively from April 2028.
Wealth Fund Boss Seeks Clarity in Public Finance
Oliver Holbourn, CEO of Rachel Reeves' National Wealth Fund, admits entrepreneurs need clearer guidance amid overlapping public finance institutions.
12.1M Brits Face £100 Tax Fine in Five Days
With the January 31 tax return deadline approaching, 12.1 million Brits risk £100 fines. Learn who must file, key thresholds, and how to avoid penalties.
£37bn Savings Possible Through Public Pension Reform
A new report reveals transitioning public sector pensions to defined contribution schemes could save taxpayers £37bn annually while addressing fairness concerns.
Public Pension Reform Could Save Taxpayers Billions
A new report reveals shifting public sector workers to defined contribution pensions could save £37bn annually while sending positive signals to bond markets about debt management.
Protect Your Pension from Trump's Market Impact
Donald Trump's tariff threats and geopolitical posturing create stock market turbulence that can wipe thousands from pension funds. Experts explain why staying invested with diversification is key.
UK Government Borrowing Falls to £11.6bn in December
Official figures reveal UK government borrowing fell to £11.6bn in December, better than expected, but debt interest remains high at £1 in every £10 spent.
UK Government Borrowing Reaches £140bn
Official data reveals UK government borrowing reached £140.4bn this financial year, creating challenges for Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she navigates fiscal rules and upcoming spending commitments.
ISA Reforms Spark Industry Fury Over Tax and Savings Risks
Rachel Reeves' proposed ISA overhaul faces fierce criticism from investment platforms and asset managers who warn it could undermine tax-free savings and reduce overall investment levels.
HMRC Alert: 3 Million Must Use New Tax System from April
HMRC issues guidance for millions of self-employed Brits and landlords required to start using the Making Tax Digital scheme from April 2026, with phased rollout and new penalty rules.
Check Your Tax Code to Avoid Overpaying £689
New data reveals 31% of UK adults have been on the wrong tax code, overpaying an average of £689. Our guide explains what your tax code means and how to check it's correct.
Millions overpaid £3.5bn in tax due to HMRC errors
HMRC data reveals 5.6 million people overpaid income tax last year. Experts blame tax code errors and complex rules. Learn how to check your code and claim money back.
Pensions expert's 6 steps for those retiring this year
New research reveals most Brits are unprepared for retirement. A pensions expert shares six crucial actions to take now for financial security in your later years.
Labour MPs push for major credit union expansion
A cross-party group of Labour MPs calls on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to supercharge credit unions, offering affordable loans to millions. The move coincides with Queen Camilla's support for military credit unions.
Save £100k by quitting 5 unhealthy habits
New analysis reveals how investing money saved from quitting smoking, takeaways, and other vices could build a six-figure sum. Discover the life-changing financial gains of sticking to your resolutions.
HMRC Details Lifetime ISA Changes & £12,000 Cap
HMRC reveals fresh ISA reforms, including a new £12,000 annual allowance and plans to replace the 'punitive' Lifetime ISA with a first-time buyer focused product. Learn what it means for your savings.
Scottish Budget: Winners, Losers, and Election Pledges
Scotland's draft budget for 2026-27 boosts child payments and cuts tax for low earners, while introducing new taxes on expensive homes and private jets. See what it means for you.
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