The Paraplanners' Assembly Podcast

In this bonus episode, The Big Day Out 2025 hosts, Aleks Sasin and Chris Wormell, join one of the Paraplanners' Assembly organisers, Maxine Cameron, to look forward to our annual gathering at FarmED near Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds.In 20 minutes you'll learn all about:the practical AI session with Harriet Mayer that's focused on hands-on writing tools that work for all experience levels, from complete beginners to regular AI users.the technical sessions which allows participants to pick-and-mix between essential and advanced level scenarios for IHT and retirement income planning, allowing you to tailor your learning to your current skill level.Zara Okoro's career development session that will helps you identify next steps for your professional growth, regardless of whether you're in-house, outsourced, or still figuring out your path.why connections at The Big Day Out —even small ones—can create lasting professional relationships – and the informal, friendly atmosphere makes it easier to join conversations even if you're naturally introverted.just how The Big Day Out is designed by paraplanners for paraplanners, creating an inclusive environment where nobody is trying to sell you anything and experts from our supporters participate as equalsThere are a handful of tickets left if you'd like to take part in this year's annual gathering. To grab a ticket, visit The Big Day Out 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you’re just starting out in paraplanning or looking to make your next move, having a clear career plan makes all the difference. But how do you actually build one that works?That’s what this Assembly is all about: the practicalities of creating a plan for your career; an approach that you can use no matter what stage you’re at in your professional life.Your career roadmap in just one lunch hourCaroline Stuart, owner and founder of Sparrow Paraplanning, hosted the conversation which featured four brilliant guests: Ellie Welling paraplanning team leader at Succession Wealth, Joe Jacob, paraplanner at FLP, Peter Spence, advice and paraplanning team leader at Fintuity, and Sarah Purves, learning and development expert at Aegon.Together, they explored a practical framework for career planning that goes beyond wishful thinking to create actionable next steps.What can you expect when you watch and listen?During this Assembly we:Explored your career aspirations and help you define what type of role you actually wantIdentified the constraints and opportunities that will shape your path (including your non-negotiables)Considered objectives to move you forwardProvided a template to help you build out your personal career action planLearned from our guests’ experience of starting out and developing as paraplannersWhat you will take awayYou’ll leave with a practical framework that you can use immediately to plan your next career step – plus real-world insights from paraplanners who’ve successfully navigated their own career transitions at different stages.Most importantly, you’ll have a clear action plan rather than just good intentions. So if you’ve been thinking about where you go next in your paraplanning career, this session is the perfect place to turn those ideas into practical actions.A big ‘thank you’ to AegonThis Assembly would not be possible without the generous support of Aegon. Thank you to the team at Aegon for supporting and for backing the development of paraplanners and paraplanning in the UK through their support of the Paraplanners’ Assembly.Useful linksHere are the links mentioned in this Assembly. Once you’ve watched or listened, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate (first link below).Request your CPD certificateDownload: Sarah's slidesDownload: Career plan templateWatch the replay at CrowdcastEpisode 1 in this careers seriesEpisode 2 in this careers seriesEpisode 3 in this careers series Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The last time the UK government convened a Pensions Commission it resulted in the equalisation of the State Pension Age between men and women, the launch of auto-enrolment plus the creation of the National Employment Savings Trust – better known as NEST.So will the recently re-constituted Pensions Commission prove to be as consequential as the last? To answer that question, we invited Barnett Waddingham’s self-invested pensions specialist, James Jones-Tinsley, to join host Richard Allum, to share his thoughts on the scope of the Commission and what it could mean for paraplanners and clients. In 20 minutes, James explains why it has been necessary to revive the Pensions Commission and what problem it has been asked to address.As well as considering the big trends driving reform - such as demographic pressures - the conversation covers:small pots consolidationpension dashboardsminimum contributionssolutions to inequalities in retirement outcomes for lower earners, women, carers, and the self-employedPlus James and Richard discuss how advice professionals can influence the Commission's work through upcoming consultations. All in all, this episode is a fantastic backgrounder for paraplanners who want to stay ahead of changes in pensions and pension policy.Useful linksAlongside the Pensions Commission, the Government has also launched a review of State Pension Age. James has also recorded a podcast on that too. You can find the podcast on Spotify, Apple and Acast, or by searching 'Paraplanners' Assembly' on your podcast app.James has recently published posts and comment articles on the topic of the Pensions Commission and State Pension Age review. Here are the links:Sipps ProfessionalJames Jones-Tinsley: State Pension Age of 68 may move nearerBarnett Waddingham blogWill the Pensions Commission fix pension under-saving?State Pension Age review: what advisers need to know Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's a question that might keep you awake at night: what do you tell clients who've spent years building pension pots specifically because they were IHT-free, only to discover that's all changed?On 21 July 2025, HMRC published their response to the pension IHT consultation, along with draft legislation that will bring unused pension pots into the inheritance tax net from April 2027. The writing's been on the wall since Rachel Reeves' October 2024 Budget announcement, but now we have the detail and it's time to work out what this means for our clients.As paraplanners, we're about to face some of the most fundamental shifts in retirement and estate planning strategy we've seen in years. The days of treating pensions as the IHT-free golden goose are numbered, and clients will be looking to us for answers.This isn't just about understanding the new rules. It's about completely rethinking how we approach pension planning, estate planning, and the delicate balance between the two.Your crash course on the new pension IHT landscapeWe were joined by M&G's Les Cameron to eexplore the different options to mitigate pension-driven IHT liabilities including:Are pensions dead? Separating the headlines from the reality for long-term retirement planningIs whole of life the answer? When life assurance might fill the IHT gapMoving client money – the practical considerations of reshuffling portfoliosAnnuities vs drawdown – how the IHT changes affect this fundamental choiceBypass trusts – exploring whether trust structures can still provide solutionsWhat can you expect to take away?You'll leave this Assembly with a clear understanding of how the new IHT rules will work in practice and with strategies you can implement immediately to help clients navigate this changing landscape.Fair warning: there's so much ground to cover that we may run slightly over our usual 60 minutes. If we do, we'll schedule a follow-up session to tackle any outstanding questions.Useful linksHere are useful links and downloads from this event. M&G Wealth have created a dedicated page for this event where you can take a quiz to receive a record for your CPD. Just follow the link to grab your certificate.Receive your CPD: take the quiz at M&G's siteDownload: Les's slides (opens PDF)Video: watch the Replay at Crowdcast (with Chat)Video: watch this Assembly on Vimeo (without Chat)M&G tools and calculatorsWatch or listen: Les Cameron on pensions, death and taxesWatch or listen: A guide to investment bond essentials for paraplannersWatch or listen: Tax wrappers: which, why and when Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Richard Allum is joined by Barnett Waddingham’s James Jones-Tinsley for a bonus episode exploring the government’s announcement of an independent review of the state pension age review and its potential consequences for retirement planning. As well as considering the scope of the review, which is being led by Dr Suzy Morrissey, deputy director of the Pensions Policy Institute (PPI), and what it means for the future, Richard and James discuss They discuss:increases to the state pension age - and why the rise to an SPA of 67 by 2028 is unlikely to be the end of the storyhow the ‘triple lock’ came about – and why its future is uncertainwhy approaches adopted by other governments could offer inspiration to provision of the UK State Pension in futureThe review’s call for evidence closes on 24 October 2025. And with its focus on life expectancy and intergenerational equity, this episode is essential listening for paraplanners keen to stay ahead of the debate and its likely effects on retirement advice long into the future.Useful linksYou'll find the Government's open call for evidence at the Review's webpage: Third State Pension age review: independent report call for evidenceJames's post about the State Pension age review is available at Barnett Waddingham's blog:Government to reassess the State Pension agePlus Sipps Professional published a comment article on the State Pension age at its site:James Jones-Tinsley: State Pension age of 68 may move nearer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You’ve established yourself as a paraplanner, but now you’re thinking: ‘What next?’For many paraplanners, staying in paraplanning is exactly what they want to do. But what does career development look like within the profession? How have people built on their paraplanning skills and experience? And what about those considering a move into other areas like financial planning or specialising in research or operations?This Assembly, recorded on 3 September explored some of the career routes within and from paraplanning.Our host Caroline Stuart, owner and founder of Sparrow Paraplanning, is joined by Ellie Bailey, paraplanning team leader at Succession Wealth, Farida Hassanali, client manager at Paradigm Norton, Rebecca Tuck, operations director at FLP Financial Life Planning and Sian Greenhill, operations executive and centralised investment and product committee at Brooks Financial – all sharing their perspectives on career progression and specialisation.Over the course of the Assembly, they discuss:Some of the career development options for paraplannersThe practical steps our panel took to progress in their careersLessons learnt along the wayTips for planning your next career moveYou’ll leave this Assembly with your head full of good ideas for potential career development and a bucket load of insights from people who’ve successfully made these transitions and you can claim one hour’s CPD.Catch up on previous Assemblies in this seriesThis continues our series on paraplanning career development. Don’t miss our previous sessions exploring how to break into paraplanning and choosing the right place to work for your early paraplanning career.Save your spot at the final session in this four-part seriesJoin us online at 1pm on Wednesday 1st October 2025 for ‘Developing as a paraplanner: ‘How do I build a career?’’Thanks to AegonThis Assembly would not be possible without the generous support of Aegon. Thank you to the team at Aegon for supporting and for backing the development of paraplanners and paraplanning in the UK through their support of the Paraplanners’ Assembly.Useful linksHere are the links mentioned in this Assembly. Once you’ve watched or listened, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate (first link below).Request CPD certificateCrowdcast: watch the Replay (with Chat)Vimeo: watch video of this Assembly (without Chat)The Big Tent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Once upon a time, when taxes were relatively low, ISAs and unwrapped investments seemed like pretty obvious choices for clients' money.But the big cut in the capital gains tax allowance and rises in tax on gains and dividends has changed things. Tax wrappers that once seemed like more hassle than they were worth (like investment bonds) could now be the ideal vehicle – especially for higher rate taxpayers.But which wrapper is right in which circumstances and why?That’s the question that guest Neil Macleod from M&G's technical team was invited to answer when he joined host, Leanne Pickering, for this Assembly.What you'll learn by listeningOver the course of one lunch hour, Leanne and Neil explored when bonds are more suitable, when offshore makes sense, and why the 'best' mathematical answer might not actually be the right choice for your client. In this Assembly you’ll:learn from real case studies that compare basic rate versus higher rate taxpayersfind out how to use withdrawals strategically to fund ISAsdiscover why different asset types work better in different wrapperstackle those tricky questions about investing within trustsunderstand why paying a bit more tax sometimes makes perfect senseYou’ll discover that the right choice for your clients isn't just about what the spreadsheet says but about the broader thinkingWhat’s more, once you’ve listened, follow the link below and you can request a record of 1 hour’s worth CPD too.Useful linksHere are useful links and downloads from this event. M&G Wealth have created a dedicated page for this event where you can take a quiz to receive a record for your CPD. Just follow the link to grab your certificate.To receive a record of participation for CPD, follow this link ➜ https://bit.ly/47zAs6gYou can also download Neil's slides (opens PDF).You can watch the Replay of this Assembly at Crowdcast (includes Chat) ➜ https://www.crowdcast.io/c/fgnir28tysqhOr you can watch on Vimeo (without the chat) over here ➜ https://vimeo.com/1111664975Leanne mentioned two Assemblies featuring M&G's technical team in 2025. Here’s the Les Cameron’s Assembly on pensions, death and taxes ➜ https://bit.ly/3RhZvl9And here’s Barrie Dawson’s Assembly on investment bond essentials ➜ https://bit.ly/4cuQuPaYou’ll find the tax wrapper comparison tool here ➜ https://bit.ly/3JrGUSJHere’s M&G’s Bond School ➜ https://bit.ly/4mor2z0You’ll find loads of tools and calculators at M&G’s Tech Matters site here ➜ https://bit.ly/3RkVNY0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you’re considering a move into paraplanning, just landed your first role or are just curious about the options, one question you might keep wondering about: ‘What kind of organisation should I work for?’Do you choose in-house team or outsourced provider? A small boutique practice or large corporate? Whichever you choose, there will be pros and cons, so how do you decide which is most suitable for you?This Assembly – recorded on 6 August 2025 – lifts the lid on different paraplanning career paths and workplace structures. It’s the second in a series of Assemblies looking at careers in paraplanning and supported by Aegon.Our host Caroline Stuart of Sparrow Paraplanning is joined by Julie South, owner of Bee Paraplanning, Sarah Lees, senior paraplanner at Forvis Mazars and Jo Parkes, paraplanning manager at Navigatus – paraplanners with experience of working in all kinds of organisations and are ready to share what it’s meant for their careers.Over the course of the Assembly, they discuss:The different paraplanning structures out there – and what they’re really like to work inHow to get your foot in the door – and what to look for in potential employersWhat support and development you can expect from types of organisationsPractical tips for adapting and thriving wherever you landYou’ll leave with a clearer picture of your paraplanning options, practical insights from experienced practitioners, and the confidence to take your next career step.Thanks to AegonThis Assembly would not be possible without the generous support of Aegon. Thank you to the team at Aegon for supporting and for backing the development of paraplanners and paraplanning in the UK through their support of the Paraplanners’ Assembly.Don’t miss the first Assembly in this seriesThis is the second Assembly in a series on breaking into and developing your career in paraplanning. Discover the first in the series Breaking into paraplanning: where do I even start?.Useful linksHere are the links mentioned in this Assembly. Once you’ve watched or listened, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate (first link below).Request CPD certificateCrowdcast: watch the Replay (with Chat)Vimeo: watch video of this Assembly (without Chat)The Big TentProfessional ParaplannerPlannex (previously known as NextGen Planners)Glassdoor - for employees’ opinions about employers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last Monday (21 July 2025), the UK Government published draft legislation which means that, from April 2027, most unused pension savings and death benefits will count towards your estate when you die.If you're wondering…which pension benefits are in scope (and which aren't)?who's responsible for paying the tax?how will the income tax offset actually work in practice?what's the timeline for implementation?...you're not alone.So in this bonus podcast episode, host Richard Allum met up with Barnett Waddingham’s James Jones-Tinsley to talk through the Government’s planned changes, what they mean for paraplanners and your clients, and suggest practical steps that you can already take to help clients get ready for the change.The measures, which feature in the Finance Bill 2025-26, could still change as the proposals make their way through Parliament from September. But if you're wondering where things stand right now and what you should be thinking about for clients with decent-sized pension pots, this is a fantastic update that gives you the current picture.Speaking of the Finance Bill…If you’ve ever wondered how Budget measures become law, James met up with Leanne Pickering of Pivotal Paraplanning last year to walk through each step in the process. Here's the podcast episode: From Parliament to paraplanner: How do Budget measures become law?And speaking of pensions…James has recorded a series of really helpful jargon busters on new and old pensions exclusively for the Assembly:New pensions jargon: part oneListen: A plain English guide to new pensions jargon: part oneWatch: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneNew pension jargon: part twoListen: A plain English guide to new pensions jargon: part twoWatch: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoOld pensions jargon: parts one, two and threeListen: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneWatch: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneListen: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoWatch: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoListen: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part threeWatch: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part three Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The choices clients make during the 5-10 years either side of retirement can decide how comfortable they’ll be once they stop working.In fact, it’s such a distinctive stage in our financial lives that, among a growing number of advice professionals, it’s known as the ‘retirement risk zone’.The data says – and you’ll know this yourself – that clients tend to become more risk-averse on their approach to retirement. Yet the likelihood of longer lifespans – and the costs associated with it – mean that ‘playing it safe’ could actually prove to be risky.What’s more, persistent economic uncertainty and instability, not forgetting the FCA’s retirement income review exposing gaps in advice quality, means hatching a plan that helps clients swerve unnecessary risks around retirement has never been more important.Zone in on the risks in one hourIn this online Assembly Connor Stewart from Standard Life joins host, Richard Allum, to explore the features of the retirement risk zone.Together they consider the risks that can trip clients up – things like the shift from accumulation to decumulation, sequencing returns, and adapting to changing financial priorities in an uncertain world – before considering practical ways to tackle them.Tune in nowListen and you’ll hear practical ideas to help guide clients through one of the trickiest phases of their financial lives. So how about it? Fancy zoning in on retirement risk? Then tune in now.Useful linksHere are the links mentioned in this Assembly. Once you’ve watched or listened, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate (first link below).Request CPD certificateConnor's slides: retirement risk zone (PDF)Vimeo: watch video of this Assembly (without Chat)Crowdcast: watch the Replay (with Chat)Annuities essentials: part oneAnnuities essentials: part two Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With recent changes to capital gains tax rates reaching up to 24% and the CGT annual exemption frozen at just £3,000, many clients are looking for tax-efficient ways to structure their investments.In his latest 'Technically speaking' session for the Paraplanners' Assembly, Utmost's Steve Sayer explores how offshore bonds and trust structures work together – offering inheritance tax planning options that provide flexibility for clients who want to be prepared for the 'what ifs' of life.Packed with helpful examples and case studiesSteve brings the options to life with a series of examples of different trust arrangements and how they can be combined.He’ll show you how discounted gift trusts can provide an immediate reduction in estate value, how loan trusts offer capital access, and why reversionary interest trusts might help hesitant clients take their first steps with inheritance tax planning.The session includes a detailed case study showing how married clients in their sixties, with £3.5 million in assets, could use multiple trust structures to meet their annual income needs all while reducing their inheritance tax liability.What's more, you'll learn about the planning opportunities that come with non-UK long term residence status and how offshore bonds can keep assets outside the UK inheritance tax net.And to round off his session, Steve shares a decision-tree approach that you’re bound to find useful when you’re weighing up client needs.Grab a copy of Steve’s slides - plus a certificate for your CPDSlides: trusts and offshore bonds - options for IHTThen make sure to take our quick quiz to receive a certificate for your CPD:CPD: Take the quiz to receive your certificateOther useful linksSteve mentions Utmost's conversion guide for discounted gift trusts. You can download it here:Discounted gift trust: conversion guide (May 2025)Fancy watching this Assembly instead? Then visit the event page at the Paraplanners' Assembly website:Technically speaking: Trusts and offshore bonds - options for IHT planningYou can find all our previous technical sessions with Utmost here:Utmost x Paraplanners' Assembly: all our previous sessionsAnd don't forget to take a look at Utmost's Technical Academy webinar series too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What knowledge, experience and skills will help you get hired? And, once you are hired, how will you know you’ve actually made the right choice?Whether you want to get into paraplanning, are just starting out, or know someone who would love to get their break, this online Assembly – recorded on 9 July 2025 – is jam-packed with insights on making your move into paraplanning.Hear for yourself how our guests took their unique paths into paraplanningHost Caroline Stuart is joined by paraplanning guests Chris Wormwell, Ceetal Katechia and Kez Condy, plus personal development expert Sarah Purves of Aegon.Over the course of one podcast, you’ll discover how each of our paraplanners took very different routes into the profession.Among the topics covered areThe multiple pathways into paraplanning (because there's never a ‘right’ route is there?)Tried and tested strategies for overcoming obstacles when starting out (or just started)Building a career plan that works for youCreating your support networkTackling imposter syndrome head-onVital conversations to have with current or potential employersDon’t forget your CPDOnce you’ve listened to this Assembly, you can request a certificate for 1½ hours CPD. Just follow the link below.Thank you AegonThis online Assembly would not be possible without the generous support of Aegon. Thank you to the team at Aegon for supporting next week’s Assembly – and for backing the development of paraplanners and paraplanning in the UK through their support of the Paraplanners’ Assembly.Useful links There are loads of links following this Assembly. First of all, once you’ve listened to this episode, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate: https://paraplannersassembly.typeform.com/to/ocHx6IFOYou can also watch the Replay of this Assembly at Crowdcast (includes Chat): https://www.crowdcast.io/c/5xznwgskdxz9Or view it on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/1100103967Sarah mentioned the fantastic idea of picking people for your ‘personal boardroom’. Here’s a link that tells you more: https://www.personalboardroom.com/for-individuals/Caroline recommended downloading the PFS’s booklet ‘Getting you started in paraplanning’ (opens a PDF)Chris mentioned The Chimp Paradox – a ‘mind management model grounded in neuroscience’ by Prof Steve Peters.Kez talked about her experience of a paraplanning apprenticeship. To find out more, visit the Skills England Apprenticeship finder, which tells you more about the new combined Financial Planning and Paraplanning apprenticeship. There is currently one provider – Skills Edge Training – but we understand there may be more entering. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As paraplanners, we have the power to directly influence financial outcomes that are better for women – whether we’re reviewing fact finds, drafting recommendations, or creating financial plans.But are we truly creating plans for the individuals in front of us? Or are we unwittingly relying on conventional thinking and assumptions which are actually more likely to be rooted in men’s experiences rather than women’s?It matters because, more often than not, women’s financial lives are very different to men’s. So to deliver genuinely effective financial planning, it’s important to understand the differences and how to adapt our approach.A chance to challenge your thinkingIn the recording of this online Assembly, host Sam Tonks invited Sam Secomb of Women’s Wealth and Susan Hope of Scottish Widows to explore how paraplanners can better understand and address the unique financial planning needs of women. During the session Sam, Susan and Sam discuss– what makes women’s financial experience so different from men’s– the real-world impact of the ‘parenthood penalty’ on long-term financial planning– our assumptions about vulnerabilities, risk profiles and investment preferences– practical strategies paraplanners can implement to better serve female clientsUseful links There are loads of links following this Assembly. First of all, once you’ve listened to this episode, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate: https://emails.scottishwidows.co.uk/womens-finances-webinar-CPDYou can also watch the Replay of this Assembly at Crowdcast: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/sk0o36kcb5fn or on Vimeo instead: https://vimeo.com/1096332315There are a number of items of research referred to during this Assembly or which offer valuable background reading including:Sam Secomb: Women’s career progression in the UK financial planning sector: https://bit.ly/4lckHFZResearch from TISA that includes language around risk warnings: https://bit.ly/45qwoUUDownload Sam Secomb’s ‘Million Pound Difference’ case study here: https://bit.ly/4nfrwIy (opens PDF)Plus there are some excellent stats and insights from Scottish Widows’s ‘Women & Retirement Report 2024’: https://bit.ly/449mKDZYou’ll also find lots of valuable tools at Scottish Widows site including:Beat the Gap tool: https://bit.ly/4n00oNEThe Pension Mirror: https://bit.ly/4ejrnjuMeet your future self: https://bit.ly/3HLSUhjPlus Caroline Criado Perez’s fantastic Invisible Women was a must-read mention in the Chat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Remember our Assembly on annuity essentials back in March?Over the course of one lunch-hour, Andy Powell from Standard Life walked us through the basics of annuities – how they work, the differences between pension and purchased life annuities, and the kinds of options available like inflation protection and guarantee periods.Now annuity expert Andy is back and he’s taking things a little bit further.In the second of his two-part guide to annuities essentials for paraplanners he talks to host, Richard Allum, about how annuities can feature as part of your clients’ retirement income strategies. For instance, among the practical planning tips that go beyond the basics, are things like:– annuities can actually boost the value of the legacy client’s leave for loved ones– annuities can be used as an asset class within broader portfolios– and much moreAfter years of being out of fashion, annuities have been enjoying a bit of a renaissance lately. So what better time to refresh your annuities knowledge and - who knows? - maybe challenge your thinking about how they can contribute to a client's retirement strategy these days?Fancy topping up your annuities knowledge? Then tune in now.Useful linksGrab your CPD certificate for watching or listening to this Assembly by visiting the link below. There were plenty of useful links shared in the chat during the Assembly. Thanks to Rob Collins, Heather Fosker and Jon Young for sharing your links. If you want to speak to someone at Standard Life about their guaranteed life income annuity you can email GLI_sales@standardlife.comCPD: Grab your record of CPD Watch the Replay at Crowdcast (includes Chat)Watch the video on Vimeo (doesn’t include Chat)Visit the event pageStandard Life’s guaranteed lifetime income annuity webpageMap of healthy life expectancyThe Lang Cat’s ‘State of the Platform Nation 2025’ reportSteve Webb on pensioner spending research by LCP/Uni of BathRetirement Living Standard’s ‘Picture your future’ toolInheritance Tax guaranteed annuity calculator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to the idea of innovation are you more likely to radiate Ted Lasso energy rather than Roy Kent? More Bandit than Bluey? Or put another way (that doesn’t rely on eclectic TV viewing habits): does the prospect of change make you feel more ‘Yeah!’ than ‘Meh!’? The reason we ask is that we were inspired by paraplanner Zara Okoro’s recent thought-provoking article in Professional Paraplanner all about innovation. So we invited Zara from Abacus Associates, who’s also a PFS Paraplanner Panel member, to share her thoughts on how paraplanners can adapt rather than risk getting left behind.Alongside Zara, we were joined by PSA Financial Services’ head of paraplanning, Ceetal Katechia, to join in the conversation. Ceetal has bags of practical experience in creating team environments in which new ideas flourish.Together with host Richard Allum, this Assembly asked what innovation actually looks like, whether it’s always a good thing, what fuels it, and how can you influence it when you’re not the decision-maker?It’s an Assembly that’s all about how you can embrace innovation and shape our profession rather than be subject to changes happening around you.What can you expect when you listen?You’ll come away with practical ideas to try out, whether you’re looking to improve your processes and workflow, make better use of existing tools and tech, or create space for bigger changes in your work.Most of all, this is a chance to step back from day-to-day demands and take a few moments for yourself to think about how even small changes can shape your role and influence the direction of your career in paraplanning.Useful links Once you’ve listened, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate: https://paraplannersassembly.typeform.com/to/hR6mIizqHere’s Zara’s article at Professional Paraplanner: https://bit.ly/4jA9WwQWatch the Replay at Crowdcast: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/6x1q91lqsgut (includes the Chat)Or watch on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/1080253419?share=copy (doesn’t include the Chat)The University of Helsinki's foundational online courses on AI cropped up as a recommendation during the discussionSo did the book The Art of Quiet Influence - subtitled 'Timeless wisdom for leading without authority' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How often do you recommend investment bonds compared to ISAs or GIAs for non-pension money these days?If it’s rarely or not at all, that’s not so surprising.Because bonds seem to have become a bit neglected planning option in recent years haven’t they?It’s a trend which means that paraplanners can be forgiven for being a bit rusty when it comes to the latest investment bond knowledge.Yet they’re an option which offers plenty of planning potential. So we thought it was about time we hosted an online Assembly where you can rekindle your bond with bonds.What you’ll gain from this episodeTo guide us, we’re joined by investment bond expert Barrie Dawson from M&G. During this Assembly Barrie covers:– What bonds actually are– Common jargon (that’s often misunderstood)– How bonds are taxed internally – and why the ‘20% tax rate’ misunderstanding persists– When bonds make sense: practical comparisons with other investment optionsWhether bonds are something you’re just getting to grips with, or you just need a refresher, this Assembly offers clarity about when and how bonds can feature in your planning recommendations.Useful linksOnce you’ve listened, make sure you complete the quick quiz to receive your CPD certificate: CPD: Request your certificateHere’s a link to download Barrie’s slides: Barrie’s slides on Bonds and OEICS (opens PDF)Richard mentions Les Cameron’s Assembly on pensions, death and taxes. Here’s the event page which has lots of links. You can also listen to the episode on Acast or search for ‘Paraplanners’ Assembly’ on your favourite podcast app.You’ll find the M&G Bonds School over here: M&G Bonds SchoolAnd there’s a trove of tools and calculators at M&G’s site: Tools and calculatorsIf you’d like to watch the Replay of this Assembly you can find it at its Crowdcast page.You can also watch video of this event by visiting its Vimeo page. (Unlike the Replay, this version doesn’t include the contents of the live Chat. Here’s the link: A guide to investment bond essentials.) If you’d like to watch the Replay of this Assembly you can find it at its Crowdcast page.You can also watch video of this event by visiting its Vimeo page. (Unlike the Replay, this version doesn’t include the contents of the live Chat. Here’s the link: A guide to investment bond essentials.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second of two specially recorded bite-sized Assemblies, Barnett Waddingham’s James Jones-Tinsley returns to tackle six items of new pension terminology including:CDC (collective defined contribution schemes)PAA (pensions advice allowance) OTA (overseas transfer allowance)Crystallised and uncrystyallised pensions fundsFP2016 or FP16 (fixed protection 2016)IP2016 or IP16 (individual protection 2016)For each item, expect an easy-to-understand definition that also offers a bit of background per term. In a world that’s awash with word soups and acronyms, James’s jargon buster offers a welcome source of straightforward explanations of often quite complex ideas.You can also watch the video of this episode on Vimeo or the event page at our website.Can’t get enough pensions jargon?Then watch or listen to part one, where James will tackle more modern pension terms.New pensions jargon: part oneListen: A plain English guide to new pensions jargon: part oneWatch: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneAnd if that's not enough and you want OLD pensions jargon, here are links to James's trio of episodes:Podcasts: old pensions jargonListen to part one: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneListen to part two: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoListen to part three: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part threeVideos: old pensions jargonWatch part one: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneWatch part two: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoWatch part three: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part threeEvent pages: old pensions jargonEvent details for part one: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneEvent details for part two: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoEvent details for part three: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part three Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following his popular Assembly debut in February, Jon Hall returns to finish his exploration of protection essentials.And this time it’s the essentials of business protection that the Scottish Widows’ protection expert will be focusing on.The chances are you’ll have business owners among your clients. And plenty of you run your own businesses as outsourced and freelance paraplanners.So what happens when someone running a business becomes critically ill or dies? What steps can you take to address the risk? How do you start a conversation about business protection?Tune in to hear Jon as he shares his expertise on:The business protection gap and what this means for SMEsHow to start meaningful conversations with business owners about their protection needsTechnically, what’s essential for robust business continuity planningThe range of solutions available – from key person and loan protection to shareholder protection and relevant life coverThe difference between shareholder and option agreementsThe role of trusts as part of business protection arrangementsTax and efficiencies for businesses and individualsWhether you want to develop your knowledge or make sure clients with business have the right plans in place, you’ll find this Assembly really valuable.Useful linksJon has shared a number of links and downloads – some of which he mentioned during his talk.CPD: request your certificateJon's slides: Paraplanners Assembly - Business Protection Essentials (PDF)Vimeo: watch this AssemblyAdviser guide to business protectionProtection tools and calculatorsConversation starters for clients with businessesVisit the event page Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After his popular ‘Plain English guide to old pensions jargon’ Barnett Waddingham’s James Jones-Tinsley has returned to record two specials on new pension terminology called - and we bet you’ll never guess this - ‘A plain English guide to new pensions jargon’ (parts one and two).In part one, James’s conversation covers five essential terms:PCLS (pension commencement lump sum)LSA (lump sum allowance) LSDBA (lump sum death benefit allowance) that replaced the lifetime allowance, highlighting that the standard allowance isn't scheduled for automatic increases.TTFAC (transitional tax-free amount certificate)MPAA (money purchase annual allowance)For each item, expect an easy-to-understand definition that also offers a bit of background per term. In a world that’s awash with word soups and acronyms, James’s jargon buster offers a welcome source of straightforward explanations of often quite complex ideas.You can also watch the video of this episode on Vimeo or the event page at our website.Can’t get enough pensions jargon?Then look out for part two, where James will tackle more modern pension terms.In the meantime, why not tune into James’s trio of old pensions jargon guides here in podcast or video formats? (Or visit the event pages for each episode at our website.)PodcastsListen to part one: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneListen to part two: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoListen to part three: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part threeVideosWatch part one: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneWatch part two: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoWatch part three: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part threeEvent pagesEvent details for part one: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part oneEvent details for part two: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part twoEvent details for part three: A plain English guide to old pensions jargon: part three Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you don’t feel all that confident about annuities, you’re not alone.Once the default choice of guaranteed income in retirement for generations of UK pension savers, for a whole bunch of reasons, annuities had been falling out of favour for year and years.Why annuities matter againHigher interest rates and inflation have led to a revival of interest in securing certainty of income in retirement. The trouble is that an emerging generation of paraplanners – and a sizeable chunk of the more established paraplanning population – had barely any recent experience of annuities.So we invited Andy Powell from Standard Life to join us to explain:How annuities work What drives annuity ratesThe practical differences between pension annuities and purchased life annuitiesWhy different providers offer different rates for similar circumstancesTailoring annuities to client needsDuring this Assembly, Andy explores the different ways annuities can be designed to meet sifferent requirements. For instance:Rising payments: increasing the amount clients receive each year in retirement Safety nets: making sure payments continue for at least 5 or 10 years, even if you dieFamily protection: keeping payments going for your partner or someone else after you dieMoney-back featuresAndy also covers newer developments like fixed-term annuities and platform-based solutions that let clients combine secure income with investment flexibility without splitting pension assets across different providers.For paraplanners, perhaps one of the most valuable takeaways is understanding enhanced terms where, in contrast to other insurance products, health conditions actually increase and not decrease income.This practical session will give you paraplanners useful knowledge to help clients weigh up their retirement income options. So why not watch now?Useful linksGrab your CPD certificate for watching or listening to this Assembly by visiting the link below.Plus there were some great links shared in the chat during the Assembly. This included the ‘Retirement Health and Lifestyle form’, which helps you prepare for the questions clients may be asked when purchasing an annuity (via Sarah Compton-Hall); and annuity rates chart, and IHT guaranteed annuity calculator (via Rob Collins).CPD: Request your certificateRetirement health and lifestyle formAnnuity rates chartInheritance tax guaranteed annuity calculatorListen to the podcast episodeWatch the Replay at Crowdcast (includes Chat) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.