#stuart porter

UK Budgets don’t normally have much of an effect on expats. They give us a bit of an insight into what life is like ‘back home’ and are important for those who have interests in the U.K. such as rental properties. But it does give me an opportunity to raise a couple of points which all British expats should be aware. (more…)

Bitcoin – The New Gold Standard?

Bitcoin has grown by 750% in US Dollar terms during the last 12 months. But what is it, who uses it and should you get in on the action? (more…)

FREE Booklet on Compliance with Dubai Health Insurance Rules

The deadline for Dubai Health Authority (DHA) compliant medical insurance is 30th June for all Dubai residents. If you have not got your plan yet you need to act fast. The application process is not complicated but it does take time and we have Ramadan next month which may slow things down a bit. Many employers have provided enhanced plans for their employees and their families whilst others have…

Why You Should Hold Cash

With interest rates at record lows for such a long time many savers have felt forced to become investors just to retain the real value of their money. This week I look at three reasons why you should have some cash available at all times.

The first reason is to provide for your day to day expenses. It seems obvious but if there is not enough money in the bank you will incur borrowing fees and may…

I Don’t Know Where I’m Going To Retire

After my last post I received some feedback about planning in a general sense, so this time I have provided some thoughts which I hope you will find helpful.  (more…)

Why Does the UK Financial Year Start on 6th April?

Until 1752, the fiscal or legal year officially began on Lady Day which was 25th March. This was one on the ‘quarter days’ when rent became due. In 1752, Britain changed from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, 170 years after continental Europe and 11 days were ‘lost’ as a result. (more…)

5 Stages of Financial Planning

Earlier this month, Aquarius magazine approached me to write an article on financial planning. The following is an excerpt from the article which is in this month’s magazine. The article is about the key stages in a person’s life and what financial planning milestones exist along the way, check to see what you should be considering… (more…)

UK Properties Owners To Pay More Tax

In the UK Budget last April the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced plans to level the playing field between UK residents and expats owning UK property. Currently, expats owning UK property for 5 years or more can sell without incurring any liability to UK Capital Gains Tax (CGT). This is not the case if you are UK resident.Consequently, UK property has been a fantastically tax efficient…