As Clare prepares for maternity leave, she joins Helen to explore the financial realities of becoming a parent. From understanding maternity pay and protecting your pension to building a baby buffer, managing childcare costs and making the most of government support, this episode covers the key money decisions facing growing families. Whether you're planning for a baby, expecting, or adjusting to life as a new parent, discover practical ways to build financial resilience and prepare for the years ahead.

This podcast contains general information and is not personal financial advice. Tax rules and government benefits can change, and benefits depend on individual circumstances. Eligibility for childcare support, Child Benefit and other government schemes may vary depending on personal circumstances and income. Pension and tax planning considerations discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Pension money can't normally be accessed until 55. Rising to 57 in 2028. Investments can fall as well as rise in value, so you could get back less than you invest.

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How much do you really need for retirement? Helen Morrissey and Clare Stinton explore new pension adequacy research from Hargreaves Lansdown and Oxford Economics, revealing how spending changes throughout retirement and the crucial role of the State Pension. They discuss annuities, income drawdown, hybrid approaches, and the impact of tax-free cash decisions. With insights into covering essential costs, maintaining your lifestyle, and avoiding common retirement pitfalls, this episode offers practical guidance for anyone planning their financial future.

This podcast is for information purposes only and is not personal financial advice. Pension and tax rules can change, and benefits depend on individual circumstances. The value of investments can rise and fall, so you may get back less than you invest. Past performance is not a guide to future returns. Income drawdown is not guaranteed and there is a risk of running out of money in retirement. Annuities provide guaranteed income but once purchased they cannot normally be changed or cancelled. Pension benefits cannot normally be accessed until age 55, rising to 57 from 2028. If you're unsure about the suitability of any retirement option, seek free guidance from the government’s impartial Pension Wise service, or personalised financial advice.

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How should investors respond to a new government, rising geopolitical tensions and the latest wave of AI-driven earnings? Anna Macdonald and Matt Britzman explore what Andy Burnham’s arrival, and a Labour shake up could mean for portfolios, the outlook for UK markets, defence spending and the upcoming Budget. They also unpack fresh results from Alphabet and Tesla, discuss the durability of the AI investment theme and explain why diversification and time in the market remain key principles for long-term investors.

This podcast is for information purposes only and does not constitute personal advice. Investments can fall as well as rise in value, so you could get back less than you invest. Past performance is not a guide to future returns. This content is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any investment or security mentioned.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.