February News round-up

Welcome to our February round-up containing current and topical news items that we hope may be of interest. Click here to view February news round-up in full.

With a General Election approaching and confidence amongst our clients growing, we are having conversations with businesses and their owners about both what they are doing and also what politicians might do in terms of policy changes.  Accordingly, this month we include articles covering issues that we are frequently discussing with clients as well as casting an eye at what might change in future.  The range of issues covered mean that there is something for most people in this newsletter.

There have been many changes to the world of pensions in recent times and we find that very few people fully understand the opportunities and issues that these changes present to them.  Chris Chambers gives a summary of the current position which is essential reading for anyone saving for a pension.

The 2014/15 tax year ends on 5 April 2015 so we give a summary of pre year-end tax and other planning tips relevant to individuals and trustees.

Owners of businesses with large cash balances are sometimes aware that there can be adverse tax implications of having too much cash.  However, not many people understand at what level of cash these problems start to arise so Rachael Dronfield explains when a company can become a ‘Piggy Bank’ and start to create potential tax problems for shareholders.

Andy Ryder discusses speculation surrounding the future of Entrepreneurs’ Relief which currently allows business owners to pay only 10% capital gains tax on a profitable sale of their business.  Scott Burkinshaw explains how business angels such as the TV Dragons can obtain generous tax relief on investments into smaller trading businesses.

In other news, we are holding two seminars in March.  The first will help manufacturing and engineering businesses get cash into the business.  The second will give analysis of the upcoming Budget.

Do not hesitate to give your usual Shorts contact a call if you need any assistance with any of the topics covered or any other matters.