Merryn Talks Money

Mark Wood, an expert in UK pensions and Chairman of Everest Funeral Concierge, dives into crucial changes in pension reforms. He discusses the complexities of tax-free pension lump sums and the shifting responsibilities of inheritance tax from providers to families. The conversation also highlights the potential tax implications of gifting and the unexpected challenges posed by political changes. Wood emphasizes strategic planning to navigate these evolving regulations, ensuring listeners are better prepared for their financial futures.

Dieter Helm, a Professor of Economic Policy at the University of Oxford and a leading thinker on sustainability and energy economics, tackles the pressing issue of skyrocketing UK energy prices. He delves into the disconnect between political ideology and economic reality in energy policy. Helm explores the complexities of the UK's net zero goals and how they contribute to rising electricity costs. He calls for a pragmatic approach to energy sustainability, emphasizing the urgent need for government action to mitigate consumer burdens while transitioning to renewable sources.

Noor Al Ali, an expert from Bloomberg Markets Live, joins to dive deep into gold's impressive resurgence and its potential as a new reserve currency. They explore the significance of gold amid fluctuating global markets and its role as a hedge against economic uncertainty. The discussion includes rising demand from central banks, and the unique dynamics of both gold and Bitcoin in today's investment landscape. As geopolitical tensions grow, the podcast unpacks how these factors could reshape our financial future.

Marc Shoffman, an award-winning journalist known for his insights in The Times and Money Week, shares valuable financial wisdom for university students facing the daunting transition to independent living. He offers smart budgeting strategies, emphasizing the need for an emergency fund and informed spending choices. The conversation explores various banking options that cater to students, highlighting benefits like cashback and discounts. Marc also discusses the importance of healthy financial habits to navigate loans and expenses effectively throughout their academic journey.

Liz Truss, former UK Prime Minister and author of '10 Years to Save the West', shares her insights into the UK's economic crisis and her brief tenure in office. She dives into the 'doom loop' affecting financial stability and the challenges of implementing meaningful fiscal policies. Truss discusses the complexities of navigating spending cuts and the political will needed for reform. Additionally, she addresses issues of free speech and media sensationalism, reflecting on the lessons learned from her experiences in government and the pressing state of the economy.

Marcus Ashworth, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist known for his insights on market trends, joins to discuss crucial economic issues. They explore the IMF's hesitance to assist the UK and analyze soaring gilt yields amidst political instability. The conversation shifts to gold's outstanding performance as an investment and unpacks the complexities of stamp duty in the property market. They also anticipate the upcoming budget challenges that could reshape taxation and spending, offering a glimpse into potential market responses.

Join Anna McDonald, Investment Manager at Aubrey Capital, Richard Wilson, CEO of Interactive Investor, and journalist Alex Massey for a riveting discussion on the morality of financial choices. They examine how virtue signaling often complicates policy and scrutinize the influence of tech giants on society. The conversation dives into overlooked investment opportunities in emerging markets and the pressing need for UK tax reform. They also reflect on the evolution of money, highlighting its implications on government power and societal trust.

Richard Wilson, CEO of Interactive Investor, navigates AI's impact on jobs and the economy. Dominic Frisby, an author and investment writer, dives into the evolving realm of gold and Bitcoin. Meanwhile, John Stepek, Bloomberg senior reporter, discusses the intricacies of public finance and innovative tax structures. Together, they explore how AI could reshape labor markets, investment strategies, and the future of money, all while gathering insights on sustainable industries. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe!

Join Alec Cutler, a portfolio manager, John Stepek, a Bloomberg reporter, and Tom Slater of Scottish Mortgage as they delve into Adam Smith's philosophies. They discuss how Smith’s economic principles relate to today's global trade, technology, and climate challenges. Discover insights on the reliability of renewable energy tech and the evolving investment landscape in biotech and AI. The conversation also touches on governance structures and emerging market trends, providing a captivating blend of history and modern economics.

Daniel Rasmussen, founder of Verdad Advisers and author of The Humble Investor, delves into the unpredictability of market forecasts and the often misguided dependence on them. He argues for selling US tech stocks and highlights the compelling potential of Polish small caps. The conversation uncovers the complex dynamics of AI investments and market volatility, while emphasizing the importance of behavioral economics. Rasmussen also critiques private equity’s reliance on debt, advocating for a more discerning approach to investing.