This is Money Podcast

Is feeling wealthy just an illusion? The hosts dive into why many upper earners still feel strapped, exploring the impact of social comparisons on wealth perception. A new calculator helps listeners assess their earnings against averages, shedding light on financial positioning. They tackle salary disparities, the complexities of mortgage portability, and even celebrity financial insights. Plus, discover the UK's best retirement spots and the role of Energy Performance Certificates in housing decisions.

Greg Jackson, CEO and founder of Octopus Energy, discusses the UK's pressing energy challenges. He critiques the current energy price cap and explores how auction systems inflate prices, particularly due to fossil fuels. The conversation highlights innovations in renewable energy, the role of offshore wind, and the benefits of solar technology for households. Jackson offers strategies for consumers to navigate energy costs effectively, advocating for reforms that could lead to 'zero bills homes' and smarter energy solutions.

Explore the chaos following a delayed Budget and the political fallout from a hefty stamp duty blunder by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. Discover how rising gilt yields are shaking up the investment landscape and affecting mortgage borrowers. Delve into debates on whether stamp duty reform is urgently needed and reflect on consumer rights in the face of flight disruptions and ride-sharing woes. Tune in for practical financial tips to navigate these turbulent times with confidence.

Rachel Rickard-Straus, Money Mail editor and This is Money alumna, dives into the allure of Dubai as young Britons explore relocating to escape tax hikes. The conversation highlights enticing factors like no income tax, affordable living, and the ease of starting businesses in Dubai. They also discuss the impact of potential National Insurance taxes on landlords and examine savings strategies, like the changes to NS&I Premium Bonds. Rachel shares insights on balancing financial decisions amid evolving market conditions.

Dive into the intriguing proposals for property tax reforms, from potential annual taxes to capital gains tweaks. Discover the Treasury's rejection of a seller tax and the implications for homeowners. Caution is raised over sophisticated investment scams leveraging deepfakes. Plus, learn about the sneaky tricks behind airport currency exchanges that can cost you. Lastly, enjoy a lighthearted look at tipping etiquette abroad, sharing personal stories that highlight the cultural challenges travelers face.

The podcast discusses the growing trend of down valuations in the housing market and what happens when buyers and lenders disagree. It dives into the significance of home values in relation to school catchment areas, revealing a link between desirable locations and rising property prices. Listeners also get insights on personalized saving strategies based on age, while the economic impact of cultural events is explored. Finally, the discussion touches on privacy concerns surrounding supermarket self-checkout systems, blending nostalgia with modern-day dilemmas.

The recent interest rate cut by the Bank of England has sparked a divided reaction among the Monetary Policy Committee, reflecting the current economic uncertainty. The podcast dives into council tax disparities affecting wealthier areas and the complications of property valuations. An eye-opening story highlights an elderly couple misled about a costly plumbing issue that could have been resolved for free. Additionally, insights are shared on seeking compensation amid the car finance scandal, offering guidance for those with missing paperwork.

Discover the staggering 37 taxes that UK households grapple with, revealing a tax rate that could hit 57%. Explore why the government's wealth tax proposal faces challenges, with diminishing capital gains tax returns. Hear insights on what it really means to feel wealthy in different regions, especially with rising living costs. Plus, get expert advice on inheritance tax strategies and hear listeners' tax queries that unveil clever and compliant financial tactics. Tune in for a mix of practical advice and fascinating discussions!

Experts discuss potential changes to the state pension age, suggesting it might rise to 74. They emphasize the importance of early retirement savings and the impact of socioeconomic disparities. The psychological barriers to saving for retirement are explored, along with upcoming taxation changes affecting families. Criticism of including pensions in the inheritance tax framework highlights unfair burdens. Finally, there's an analysis of the FTSE 100's rise and contrasting strategies for investing in Bitcoin amid its volatility.

Discover the controversy surrounding proposed mortgage reforms that aim to ease housing affordability for first-time buyers. Experts discuss the risks of larger loans and the lessons from past financial crises. The podcast also dives into the FTSE 100's recent surge, exploring its implications for investors. Additionally, there's a spotlight on upcoming changes to inheritance tax, and practical advice on navigating investment diversifications and choosing the right funds in today's market.