As we reach the halfway point of 2026, we are pleased to share a selection of our most popular Insights articles from the year so far. Spanning wealth planning, investment trends, technology and sustainability, these pieces reflect the range of influences and personal considerations shaping both the investment landscape and client conversations – from pension planning and cybersecurity to energy security and luxury markets.
Explore our highlights below and discover more from our Insights here.
Following announcements in the October 2024 Budget, unused pensions will no longer sit outside inheritance tax from April 2027, reshaping their role in wealth planning. While pensions remain a valuable component of long-term financial planning, the new rules are likely to prompt many individuals and families to reconsider how pension assets fit within their broader wealth transfer strategy, with implications for estate administration that we will explore in a forthcoming article.
Ola Adeosun, Head of Regional Wealth Planning & Family Governance, examines the upcoming changes and what this means for long-term wealth transfer and legacy structuring. Find out more here.
Geopolitics, rising electricity demand and decarbonisation are reshaping the global energy landscape. As conflicts in major energy-producing regions continue to expose economies to price shocks and supply disruption, Jordan Kelly, Senior Sustainable Research Analyst, explores how the drive for greater energy security, the ongoing focus on renewable energy deployment and growing AI-related power demand are influencing the future energy mix, with implications for the wider economy. Discover more.
Government bonds, or gilts, are a long-established part of financial markets, yet outside industry circles their practical uses are less widely understood. In simple terms, gilts are bonds issued by the UK Government to finance public spending and, in the right circumstances, they can offer investors a tax-efficient way to set aside capital for a known future expense.
As part of our Finance decoded series, Sam Priddy, Investment Manager, explains how gilts work, how they are taxed and why they may be relevant for higher-rate taxpayers. Read more here.
In an increasingly digital world, online fraud is becoming ever more sophisticated, but a few simple habits can significantly reduce your risk. From recognising pressure tactics and impersonation scams to checking payment details, we explore the practical steps you can take to help protect your finances and sensitive information online. Kevin Ellis, Security Risk Manager, shares the measures that can help individuals stay vigilant and act with greater confidence here.
Luxury goods have long conveyed status, but the market is increasingly shifting from goods to experiences, as consumers place greater emphasis on exclusivity, access and personalisation. Now growing faster than luxury goods, prestigious sporting events, fine dining, high-end travel and wellness-led retreats all form part of this trend, offering privacy, rarity and a certain ‘in the know’ status that extends beyond traditional hospitality.
George Harper, Research Analyst, explores what this shift in consumer preferences reveals about the changing dynamics of luxury markets. Read the full article here.
We look forward to bringing you further perspectives through our Insights in the months ahead. To discover more of our articles, click here.
This communication is provided for information purposes only. The information presented herein provides a general update on market conditions and is not intended and should not be construed as an offer, invitation, solicitation or recommendation to buy or sell any specific investment or participate in any investment (or other) strategy. The subject of the communication is not a regulated investment. Past performance is not an indication of future performance and the value of investments and the income derived from them may fluctuate and you may not receive back the amount you originally invest. Although this document has been prepared on the basis of information we believe to be reliable, LGT Wealth Management UK LLP gives no representation or warranty in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented herein. The information presented herein does not provide sufficient information on which to make an informed investment decision. No liability is accepted whatsoever by LGT Wealth Management UK LLP, employees and associated companies for any direct or consequential loss arising from this document.
LGT Wealth Management UK LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom.
