Scott James & Associates

27/05/2026

Have you ever wondered how wealth truly grows over time?

The lessons from 'The Richest Man in Babylon' are just as relevant today as they were back then. The parables remind us that wealth isn’t just about what you earn; it’s about how you reinvest it.

I often share these timeless insights with clients to highlight the importance of patience and time in financial growth.

Seeing your investments compound might take a while, but when done right, the results can be substantial.

Consistency and wise reinvestment are keys to building real and lasting wealth.

What are your experiences with wealth accumulation? Share your thoughts!

26/05/2026

Good luck to our player sponsor Sam Locke today, competing in the Southerness Classic on the Tartan Pro Tour.

Go well Sam!!!!!

25/05/2026

Happy Bank Holiday Monday, everyone! 🎉

As we kick back and enjoy a much-deserved break, it’s a great time to reflect on our financial goals. Whether you’re thinking about saving for a special trip or planning for your future, now’s the moment to pause and breathe.

Hope everyone is enjoying a relaxing day with family and friends.

We will be back open 9am Tuesday.

21/05/2026

UK government bond yields climbed again last week, with 10-year gilt yields ending above 5.1% and 30-year yields approaching 6%, their highest levels in decades.

Political uncertainty at home, alongside concerns over public finances and higher energy costs linked to the Iran crisis, added to investor unease.

There was some brighter UK economic news, with GDP growing 0.6% in Q1 2026 - the strongest performance among G7 nations. However, questions remain over how inflationary pressures and geopolitical risks may affect growth in the months ahead.

In the US, April inflation rose to 3.8%, driven largely by higher oil and gas prices, adding pressure to bond markets and contributing to renewed equity market volatility.

Elsewhere, the FCA announced a review into how investment firms support bereaved customers, while the government published further detail on how Inheritance Tax will apply to most unused pension funds and death benefits from 6 April 2027.

Read more: https://www.scottjamesandassociates.co.uk/article/detail/sjpp/weekwatch-18-05-2026

The value of investments can fall as well as rise, and you may get back less than you invest. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. This content is for information only and does not constitute financial advice.

19/05/2026

The last of the birthday celebrations for our lovely Libby James.

A wee team lunch at The Dutch Mill with some cake and a bunch of flowers to show her how much we appreciate her and the help that she gives to our clients as well as our team.

Happy birthday Libby!!!!

19/05/2026

🧠 Why having a Power of Attorney matters more than many families realise

This week marks Dementia Action Week - a reminder that planning ahead isn’t just about finances, but about protecting the people around us if life takes an unexpected turn.

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity through illness, accident or conditions such as dementia. Without one in place, families can face delays, legal complications and added stress during already difficult circumstances.

💡 At a glance:

• There are two types of LPA in England and Wales - one covering property and financial affairs, and another for health and welfare decisions.
• LPAs must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used, and the process can take up to 10 weeks.
• Different arrangements apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with varying rules around healthcare and financial decisions.
• Setting up an LPA before it’s needed is generally simpler and less costly than dealing with matters after capacity has been lost.

As Claire Trott of St. James’s Place notes, having conversations early and documenting wishes can make things much easier for loved ones in the future.

While these discussions are rarely easy, planning ahead can provide clarity, reassurance and greater confidence that decisions will reflect your wishes if others ever need to act on your behalf.

Read more: https://www.scottjamesandassociates.co.uk/article/detail/sjpp/denebtua-action-week-shoring-up-the-future-with-a-lasting-power-of-attorney

This content is for information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.

16/05/2026

Good luck to Stonehaven Football Club this afternoon as they look to secure the league title in their match against Lossiemouth United.

They are on an unbelievable record breaking run of 19 consecutive wins and need 1 point from their last three games to wrap up the title.

All the best today from Scott and the whole Scott James & Associates team.

13/05/2026

Well, the big day is nearly here as we head down to Perth Racecourse for the Edinburgh Gin Ladies Day, tomorrow.

For those attending, just some points of note:

Meet at the office for breakfast and bubbles at 8:30am. The fizz is already chilling and Darren from The Fourmile Restaurant will be delivering our breakfast.

We have two coaches this year supplied by Rs Coaches. We will be leaving the office promptly at 9:30am (do not be late)!!!

The weather forecast is a bit of a mixed bag. Unfortunately it doesn't look like the warmest of days, and it may also rain, so please ensure you have all eventualities covered.

There is a cash machine at The Grandstand enclosure by the Main Entrance/The Barn but debit card is also accepted.

The Charity Partner is Breast Cancer Now. They will be selling raffles etc so please ensure you have cash to support this very worthy charity.

We will likely be clear of the venue at about 6:45pm and will be stopping at Forfar for a McDonald's. Make sure you don't spend all your money at the races or you'll go hungry.

We will arrive back at the office at approximately half past 9/quarter to 10.

We look forward to welcoming you all to our office tomorrow for what is a brilliant day.

11/05/2026

Looking for a new way to support Charlie House HQ.....golfers, get involved!!!!

Drive change beyond the fairway ⛳

Join Charlie House for our much-anticipated annual golf day! Taking place at Peterculter Golf Club on Friday 21 August, golfers (and non-golfers willing to give it a go!) will enjoy a brilliant day of golf while supporting local families.

From tee to green, every team taking part in the Charlie House Golf Day will be helping fund vital support for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions across the North-east of Scotland 🧡

What’s included:
🏌18 holes of golf
🍝 Breakfast and lunch included
🎯 Exclusive on-course challenges

Looking to take part and make your support go the extra (fairway) mile? Talk to us about our range of sponsorship opportunities available.

👉 Tee off for a great cause – find out more: https://www.charliehouse.org.uk/events/golf-day

Support that starts on the fairway.

Impact that stays local.

11/05/2026

***Well done to Dorothy Kirkwood, winner of the tickets***

We are proud to sponsor the arts here at Scott James & Associates and in keeping with this, we have another giveaway for our fantastic followers!!!

As you may know, Frances' (from the office), as well as a great number of our clients children, are members of Starlights Musical Theatre.

Thursday this week sees the opening night of the Intermediates production of High School Musical.

As a proud sponsor we have two tickets available for the Grand Finale on Saturday night.

If you'd like to be in with a chance of winning the two tickets, and seeing this not to be missed show, then all you need to do is as follows:

Follow our page
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The show is at The Dalrymple Hall in Fraserburgh.

11/05/2026

UK intermediate and long-term gilt yields are all at, or near, multi-year highs. This reflects a tough global economic outlook, but also specific domestic concerns (weak economy, high reliance on imported energy, political uncertainty). This unattractive risk profile means UK bond yields are higher than its G7 peers.

The high borrowing costs will limit the government’s ability to increase spending or reduce taxes, meaning more difficult decisions may be ahead.