Trust and Transparency (Introducing Everlake Episode 5)

Estate planning isn’t just about writing a will—it’s about securing your financial future, protecting your loved ones, and making informed decisions that minimise tax liabilities. In this episode, Marc Westlake sits down with Andrea McNamara, Director of Private Client Law at EY Law Ireland, to explore the crucial role estate planning plays for individuals and business owners alike. As a chartered tax advisor, trust and estate practitioner, and qualified barrister, Andrea brings a wealth of expertise to the conversation. Together, Marc and Andrea discuss common estate planning pitfalls in Ireland, the importance of working with specialists, and how Everlake collaborates with professionals like Andrea to provide a seamless, strategic approach to wealth management. They also highlight key considerations around wills, trusts, enduring powers of attorney, and intergenerational wealth planning. Main Topics: Why estate planning matters – The key benefits of structuring your wealth for future generations. Common mistakes people make – From delaying a will to overlooking tax implications. Enduring Powers of Attorney – Why recent legal changes have made this more complex but even more essential. How Everlake & EY Law collaborate – A joined-up approach to wealth and estate planning. The best estate planning advice? – Spend your money wisely and enjoy it while you can!

Understanding risk in your finances is hard enough, but to know if you're making the right move while taking a risk is difficult without the right advice. In this episode of the Everlake podcast, hosts John McNicholas and Marc Westlake discuss the complexities of understanding and managing risk in financial planning. They cover various types of risks investors face, including the risk of losing capital permanently, longevity risk, and the risk of inflation. They also highlight the importance of differentiating between perceived risks such as market volatility and more significant risks like outliving one's resources. Practical advice is given on assessing personal risk, considering timelines, and the potential benefits of a hybrid approach to retirement planning, such as combining investments with guaranteed income products. Main Topics: Definition and Understanding of Risk in Financial Planning Historical Perspective on Risk Personalized Risk Assessment Retirement Planning and Risk Annuities and Risk Management Strategies

Marc Westlake and John McNicholas review key financial events and legislative changes in Ireland from 2024 to help guide informed financial decisions for 2025. They emphasize the unpredictability of markets, the importance of understanding financial news, and strategies for diversified, low-risk investments. The episode is also your exclusive consultation for 2025 and covers significant legislative updates in Ireland, including changes in tax and pension rules, and underscores the importance of regular financial reviews, financial apps, and maintaining a rainy day fund. They also discuss how to manage high returns and the need for a forward-looking approach to financial planning. Main Topics: 2024 Financial Performance: Discussion of market outcomes, highlighting the strong performance of a typical 60/40 portfolio and fixed income investments. Legislative Changes in Ireland: Overview of increased inheritance tax thresholds, updated pension rules, and changes to the standard fund threshold. Investment Strategy: Diversification, low-risk options, and the importance of managing long-term vs. short-term expectations. Financial Reviews and Planning: Emphasizing regular assessments to account for legislative changes and shifts in personal circumstances. Financial Tools and Apps: Use of apps like An Post Money to track expenses and aid in achieving financial goals, while being mindful of data privacy concerns.

Most people consider having money in the bank as the most effective way to create wealth. Little do they know that the banks give very little return to its customers for a high amount of investment they can make at their expense. In this episode of Everlake, hosts John McNicholas and Marc Westlake explore the limited control individuals have over their bank deposits and the hidden costs associated with state savings. The conversation emphasizes the importance of financial education and transparency, highlighting the disparity between bank profit motives and depositor returns. They discuss the missed opportunities in the Irish financial sector due to misallocated savings, the cultural tendencies towards cash savings and property investment, and the need for professional financial advice. Through historical and contemporary contexts, the hosts advocate for a balanced approach to saving and spending, stressing the role of investments in personal and societal growth. --- Thanks so much for listening to this episode of the Everlake podcast! If you'd like to work with us, head to https://www.everlake.ie/ and follow the instructions to book a consultation. If you enjoy this podcast, please share it with a friend or colleague and leave us a rating & review on your podcast app. LinkedIn || YouTube || X (Twitter)

The Irish Finance Bill for this year (2024) has included a number of recommendations in the lead up to the election. In this episode, Marc Westlake delves into the key changes and implications of the Bill. He explores how the recent budget adjustments affect financial planning specifically in Ireland, highlighting significant updates such as the increase in the standard fund threshold and the nuanced impacts on pension contributions. He also discusses the implications for business owners and senior executives, changes to inheritance tax rules, and potential future adjustments in the taxation of investment funds and stock options. This episode provides crucial insights for navigating Ireland's updated financial landscape and emphasizes the importance of tailored financial advice. Topics Covered: Changes in the Standard Fund Threshold: Incremental increases from 2026 onwards Implications on pension lump sum taxation