Hampshire Hill Group Ltd

28/05/2026

I was in the car the other day and caught the end of an advert. I can't remember whether I was listening to a podcast or the live radio. All I do know is that I found myself thinking "really"?

The advert was selling savings and investments through an app; sounds simple yes? Well, I'm going to share why I raised my eyebrows...

"Your savings and investments are not FSCS protected". It was said very quickly, you know, as a quick addendum to the advert but it really needs due consideration. The advertiser hoping that most listeners won't realise what this means isn't acceptable in my opinion.

So, what is the FSCS and what does it mean? It's the Financial Services Compensation Scheme which was set up by the UK government back in 2001. It means that reputable financial institutions who are part of the scheme provide reassurance to their clients.

This reassurance is in the fact that if one of the financial firms within the scheme goes out of business and fails then clients' funds could be protected up to £120,000. It's something clients often only think about when a firm ceases trading, but this is really too late.

So, why am I mentioning this and why do I feel it's important? It's simple really; I think that any financial institution, whether it be app / web based or more of a traditional bricks and mortar offering, should be completely transparent with clients about the risk they could be taking. Just adding an after thought at the end of an advert, doesn't really cut it for me.

Richard Hampshire

20/05/2026

When I mention Inheritance Tax (IHT) in conversation with clients there is often a feeling that there is little that can be done to avoid it. The phrases ‘being taxed twice’ and ‘I might as well have just spent everything’ or the like are often said.

IHT is here to stay; it’s not going to disappear. Your estate may well be above the set threshold at the time of your passing so it becomes relevant. If that’s the case then there is really no way to avoid it at that time.

There are however steps which can be taken in advance to try to limit the impact on your loved ones at the time of your passing. It requires working with experts who understand the implication of the legislation and have an awareness of changes which are planned for the future. This is where we can help.

Yes, IHT is here to stay; the shape it takes will however change over time. The best thing you can do is have an open relationship with your independent financial advisor, preferably somebody from my firm!, and work with them to reduce your liabilities. It's all about planning and I know that's one area we really do excel in.

https://hampshirehill.co.uk/building-wealth-today-planning-for-tomorrow/

11/05/2026

At Hampshire Hill we feel strongly that the best advice can be given when our advisers have a good understanding of our clients’ lives. This is why our approach takes into account the individual’s circumstances.

Our lifestyle planning process is firmly rooted in the belief that one size does not fit all. Being able to ask relevant questions to ascertain clients’ dreams and aspirations as well as their current financial situation is a must. It’s also why we place so much emphasis on regular reviews so both parties can be happy that the goals are still relevant.

I know there are lots of apps which promise financial advice but an actual personal relationship, founded on good, honest conversation, still has an important place in the world of finance today. Don’t be tempted by the promise of great returns on your investments; if they look too good to be true then they usually are:
We pride ourselves on delivering our independent advice in an uncomplicated way and we’re of course monitored by the Financial Conduct Authority. It just starts by getting in touch; you may be surprised at how we can work with you so you’re better informed about your financial situation, for now and the future.

30/04/2026

Many people don't prioritise planning for retirement in their younger years. I get that other things can get in the way, seen more urgent a priority perhaps, but we really should change our way of thinking. Through better planning and thinking in advance we can be best prepared for the type of retirement we want!

When you first qualify for an auto enrolment scheme through work my advice is simple. Take it. Don't be tempted to opt out, no matter how big the attraction of having more cash in your pocket may be. Put as much as you can in to it and take advantage of the free money contributed by your employer, currently set at a minimum of 3%.

In addition to participating in the Auto Enrolment scheme through your work, consider whether you can afford saving some of your income in to a personal pension plan, a long term savings plan, an ISA or a Lifetime ISA. There are lots of options open to you and it's always worth having a conversation with me or my team to help you understand how they differ and which would be the best option for you. It just starts with a conversation.

24/04/2026

Changes to tax on dividends have come in to play this month with 2 percentage point increases for both the ordinary and upper rates. If you're a company director who regularly draws dividends from the business, it may be worth taking a look at how these changes could impact you. I'm not saying you should stop payments, instead I'm suggesting you look at how these changes impact you. Dividends can certainly still be a tax efficient way to add to your income; just make sure you're aware and informed.

How 2026 Dividend Tax changes may affect your income strategy

17/04/2026

We appreciate some clients may have concerns about their investments, especially with the uncertainty that war brings.

Investments are usually best viewed as a long term option and markets are likely to experiences rises and falls. Conflicts can have a big impact on the performance of some specific shares, which is to be expected.

As part of our approach, we ensure the investments we propose for our clients is a good fit with their attitude to risk. We are always happy to review performance and make changes if a client wishes; it's part of what we do.

https://hampshirehill.co.uk/dividend-outlook-growth-expectations-for-2026/

UK dividends forecast to grow in 2026 despite global uncertainty

09/04/2026

So, a new tax year has started and we're ready to help our clients maximise their financial opportunities over the next 12 months. I'm not wanting to talk clichés so won't mention birds or worms! What I will say is that preparation is key.

At the start of a new financial year it's a good idea to look at where you are financially speaking and determine what your financial priorities are for the year ahead. If you're a business owner then this may start as a discussion with your accountant as you set your business goals for the forthcoming year. We are often included in meetings with clients' accountants and find such a relationship can really be fruitful. Understanding both business and personal financial aims can help us offer a much more tailored level of advice.

Whether you're an employee or a business owner, now is the right time to have a conversation about how the next 12 months could look.

How to maximise ISA, pension and tax allowances from the start of the year

01/04/2026

Those of you who know me and my approach won't be surprised when I say I take great pride in members of the Hampshire Hill team passing exams. Today I'd like to say well done to Jake Hopewell and Reece Edwards; all the hard work they've put in to their Level 3 Mortgage Advice training has paid off. Well done guys.

Some of you may ask why it's important for us to invest in the team in the way we do? It's our way of ensuring we're always on top of our game, aware of up to date legislation and ensuring we're working to FCA compliant standards. Understanding best practice and implementing that within our firm is critical. It's not a 'ticking off' exercise but instead a commitment to our clients to show that we know that a knowledgable team is one of the key reasons they're so happy with what we do (you only need to check our Google Reviews to see what our clients think!).

I look forward to seeing the team continue to develop and enhance their skills, it makes me very proud of each and every one of them.

Richard Hampshire

26/03/2026

None of us want to have to think "what if my partner dies how will I manage?". It is however something we should prepare for; no matter how much we'd rather not.

A recent survey found that 30% of UK adults could be forced to sell their home should their partner pass unexpectedly. So, not only would they have to deal with the grief and everything else that comes with a loss, but they'd also have to leave their home. There is insurance protection available so this doesn't need to happen but so many prefer to put it off and not think about it.

I do get it. If you're young you have other priorities to spend your money on and one of you dying in the near future seems unlikely. This is, I believe, a mistake. You should consider what protection is available so should the unexpected happen, the financial impact on you and your family is minimised. Bereavement is a difficult time so why not ensure that the financial side of things is sorted?

There are various different policies available and we'd be happy to talk with you about the best option for your circumstances. You'd be surprised the peace of mind it can bring you once put in place.

https://hampshirehill.co.uk/secure-your-home-and-future/

Life insurance can provide families with vital cover after a sudden bereavement. Seek protection advice.

20/03/2026

Did you know that when you place your savings and investments with us we will listen to your values? We offer ethical investing as part of our service and pride ourselves on having open conversations with our clients to understand what is important to them personally.

The thought that one size fits all is a long way from our approach. We like to get to know all our clients, their short and long term financial goals, their personal situation and what is important to them and their families. This then shapes the approach that we will take regarding the advice we give. We believe in offering clients options and having an input in how their finances are managed through our services.

Regular review meetings are a key tool we use; making sure we touch base with clients to ensure their needs haven't changed is essential. As is understanding how any changes in their personal circumstances may have an impact on their wishes relating to their finances.

The relationship we have with our clients is fundamental to how we work. We believe in demystifying the world of finance to help our clients make informed decisions. Understanding their values and needs is an underlying part of our approach. If you think you'd like to work with an independent financial advisor who provides a truly tailored approach, then get in touch.