Financial Focus: Autumn 2026

With world events continuing to overshadow UK politics in recent weeks Andy Burnham has had a relatively uncontroversial start to his tenure as Prime Minister. However, his commitment to the Treasury’s existing fiscal rules alongside his determination to overhaul social care provision has led to plenty of speculation ahead of the Autumn Budget in late October. Our feature considers the areas where the Chancellor has room to manoeuvre, and what those moves could be, with further taxation on pensions one option.

Funding extended retirements is a concern for many in the UK, and pensions industry body, Pensions UK, has published its latest set of retirement costs. If you think you may not meet your lifestyle goals, it may be time to adjust your funding strategy. Speaking of funding, recent research reveals that many small businesses run solo, or with a very small workforce, do not insure their most valuable asset, their key employees. If your business could collapse without you, or an essential staff member, make sure you consider the right business protection options to ensure your continued operation.