Pension and retirement

With the Budget just days away, speculation is mounting over what options are left for George Osborne after the pension tax relief shake-up was scrapped. Amid the concerns, Self-invested Personal Pension (SIPP) contributions tripled in February, latest figures from Fidelity International revealed. We also saw how the over 50s are boosting their retirement income in the 0.5% world and why savers should be setting aside at least 15% of their monthly salary for a comfortable retirement.

What we know for certain is that the new State Pension will come into effect in April so we have got the key facts to help you get to grips with the changes. We also highlight 10 top tips to help you plan for your retirement.

Savings

Interest rates on savings products are so pitiful that Brits are earning more from their current accounts. While rates on ISAs don’t fare much better, we include three ISA ideas for experienced investors. With the Personal Savings Allowance set to launch on 6 April, we give a rundown of what you need to know. We’ve tips on how to reduce your Capital Gains Tax and there’s good news for energy bill payers as a long-awaited report into the sector means millions will see their bills slashed or capped.

Investing

We consider why simple trumps low cost when picking financial products and why drip feeding your money is better than investing lump sums. Star fund manager Neil Woodford maintains the top spot for most traded funds in February, The Share Centre stats reveal. But we’re still aware of the market volatility so just how grizzly is this bear market? And could it be the end of active equity managers?