Writer Sally Hamilton looks at the rising number of platform providers and asks how the landscape for them and the Financial Planning profession will change with the advent of the RDR in 2013. Read more ...

In this edition of Technical Update we look at what makes a good income investment and how Financial Planners can maximise returns in a difficult climate. Problems in the Eurozone mean typically favoured investments, such as gilts, have fallen to their lowest ever level and are no longer seen as viable ‘safe haven’ investments. As a result, Financial Planners are looking outside the box for alternative means of investment to find growth potential. Read more ...

Stephen Jones CFP^CM helps a recently widowed, high-achieving academic cope with the personal loss she has suffered and begins to plan ahead for her financial future. Read more ...

Rob Kingsbury talked to a variety of Financial Planner and asked them how they are using Sipps to provide a retirement solution across their client range, particularly for business owners.

In this edition of Technical Update we look at a pensions area which is often talked about among professional intermediaries but which is equally often poorly understood, QROPS and its derivatives.

The RDR will bring sweeping change for the financial services sector. Many Financial Planners are ready but how are the product providers coping and what are they doing to ensure they remain fit for the future?

Paolo Sardi, one of the founders of investment specialist ECPI, takes a detailed look at investment suitability covering the key issues and challenges for planners and clients looking for investments that meet sustainability guidelines.

Mary Stewart of Sipps specialist Hornbuckle Mitchell focuses on the new rules on flexible pension drawdown and how the market is evolving as a result. She looks at the opportunities for planners and some of the hurdles to be overcome.

Mike Morrison from AXA Wealth looks at the impact the Lifetime Allowance is having on pensions planning and how planners are having to adjust to the new rules.

Financial Planner Ray Prince CFP^CM helps a dentist ease his busy workload and move to Scotland