I am pleased to present the final Octo Wealth Management newsletter of 2024. This year was certainly active with the election of a Labour Government in the UK, the overwhelming mandate given to the new US President, Donald Trump, and continued geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Europe and Asia. Market-wise, US stocks outperformed other regions significantly, driven by optimism surrounding Trump’s seemingly business-friendly policies. Rachel Reeves's Autumn Budget added additional complexity to the UK wealth management sector, and there would be no surprise that there are more questions than answers. Topics discussed in this month’s newsletter are the UK budget winners and losers, inheritance tax implications for pensions and intergenerational wealth transfer.
As 2024 comes to a close so does the first full year in my new role with Octo Wealth Management. To all my clients, colleagues, partners and friends thank you for your support this past year. Seasons greetings and wishing you and your family a healthy and prosperous 2025.