Merryn Talks Money

In this week’s personal finance edition of Merryn Talks Money, hosts Merryn Somerset Webb and John Stepek discuss a listener question about whether setting up a limited liability company is a good strategy to save on taxes in the UK. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pippa Malmgren, an economist and former advisor to President George W. Bush, and Helen Thomas, founder of BlondeMoney, dive into the political landscape post-Trump's victory. They unpack potential impacts on the US-UK relationship and the importance of the special relationship amidst Brexit. The conversation highlights innovative economic strategies and the implications of tariffs, while also discussing Bitcoin's promising future as a financial tool under new regulations. Get ready for insights on tech supremacy and geopolitical shifts!

Merryn and John dive into the recent cut in the UK's interest rate, highlighting its impact amidst rising global competition. They tackle the troubling state of student loans, comparing them to a tax system that burdens graduates. The conversation shifts to the financial pressures faced by university alumni, emphasizing the value of vocational pathways. A fascinating twist reveals the art of barrel-making and its role in spirit production, blending economic insights with a focus on mental health.

This discussion dives into the essential differences between defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. You’ll learn about the security offered by DB pensions and the risks tied to shifting to DC schemes. Recent regulatory changes that impact pension transfers are examined, shedding light on how they can influence retirement strategies. The hosts also highlight the complexities and tax implications involved in fund withdrawals, revealing why some financial advisors may hesitate to support transfers between these schemes.

Join Stephanie Flanders, Bloomberg's Head of Economics, and Andy King, former Chief of Staff at the UK Office for Budget Responsibility, as they dissect Rachel Reeves’ first budget. They tackle the public’s response, exploring tax increases, spending ratios, and the delicate balance of public services against financial realities. The duo unpacks how budget decisions affect small businesses, wages, and the broader economic landscape while humorously musing on audience sentiments and the future implications for the UK economy.

John Stepek, a senior reporter and author of the Money Distilled newsletter, joins to discuss Japan's recent elections, which resulted in political uncertainty for the first time since the 1990s. They explore the potential market impacts of this instability and draw parallels with global trends. Additionally, they dive into Japan's declining fertility rates, examining how social and economic factors shape family dynamics, and reflect on implications for housing and population shifts in both Japan and the UK.

Discover effective strategies for managing student debt in the UK, particularly for Millennials grappling with loans over £50,000. Learn how to balance home ownership and repayment priorities while navigating the impact of life changes. The hosts discuss the emotional challenges involved, the importance of investing early, and how familial support can bolster financial decisions. With insights on political dynamics around loan forgiveness, find out how clear financial planning can enhance both your economic and psychological well-being.

David McWilliams, an author and economist renowned for his insightful works on currency, joins the discussion on the captivating evolution of money. He traces history from ancient coins to Bitcoin, illuminating how financial systems have shaped societies. The conversation dives into the impact of quantitative easing on inequality and political unrest, linking ancient economic behaviors with modern market emotions. McWilliams also unravels the misconceptions surrounding cryptocurrencies and the revolutionary potential of mobile banking in less-developed regions.

Joining the discussion is Marcus Ashworth, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist known for his insights into macro themes and financial markets. He dives into gold's recent surge amid geopolitical tensions, positioning it as a safe-haven asset. The conversation also touches on the fluctuating oil prices and the evolving bond market. They explore the challenges facing the Chinese yuan as it vies for global currency status against the U.S. dollar, alongside the implications of central bank digital currencies on traditional finance.

Join John Stepek, a senior reporter and author of Money-Distilled, as he shares his insights on saving for kids using Junior ISAs. They discuss the benefits of these UK-specific savings accounts, focusing on tax advantages and contribution limits. John emphasizes the importance of parents' financial security before investing in their children's futures. They also tackle the significance of understanding costs associated with savings products, ensuring that parents make wise, affordable choices for long-term financial growth.