Private Wealth Podcast

Hosted by Saffery

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

We explore the changing world of private wealth – from family offices and succession planning to philanthropy and the changing personal tax landscape.

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27 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 521 min

Philanthropy, tax and legacy planning

The most generous giving can also be the most strategic, but only if you understand the UK tax rules behind it. Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges, private wealth partners, discuss philanthropy from a private client perspective, focusing on how to give with clarity, avoid common traps, and build a plan that fits your wider wealth management and estate planning goals.This episode starts with Gift Aid, because it underpins most UK charitable giving. We explain how the basic rate reclaim works, how higher and additional rate taxpayers can claim further income tax relief, and why some donors get caught out by an unexpected Gift Aid tax charge when they’ve not paid enough tax. We also look into practical planning: using donations to manage thresholds such as the £100,000 personal allowance taper and child benefit clawback, plus the rules on when a cash donation can be carried back to the prior tax year.We cover gifting quoted shares and securities, including why it can be so effective for capital gains tax (CGT) planning and income tax relief, and what to consider if you’re also making Gift Aid cash donations. We then look at inheritance tax (IHT) relief, charitable legacies, and the reduced 36% IHT rate where at least 10% of the estate goes to charity, alongside why careful will drafting matters when charity trustees are involved.Finally, we compare donor advised funds (DAFs) with running a private charitable foundation, including anonymity, administration, governance, and how philanthropy can help engage the next generation through shared decision-making and impact. If you'd like to find out more about how we can support your philanthropic goals, then please do get in touch.You may also be interested in our article covering tax relief on charitable donations.And don't forget to subscribe on your preferred podcast platform and leave us a review if you found this episode helpful.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

May 5, 2026Episode 419 min

Choosing the right wealth planning structure: FICs vs trusts vs offshore bonds

Family investment companies (FICs), trusts and offshore bonds are three of the most common structures used in UK tax and wealth planning — but what do they actually mean for you and your family?In this episode, we break down how each structure works in practice, how they differ on control, tax, reporting and long term succession, and why the right choice depends on your goals rather than what’s currently popular. We look at how trusts separate ownership and benefit, how FIC share classes shape governance and growth, and how offshore bonds use tax deferral and 5% withdrawals. We also explore when it makes sense to combine structures, plus the real world trends we’re seeing — from rising reporting requirements to cross-border moves and the growing appeal of familiar corporate frameworks.Listen now to understand these wealth structures in simple terms and consider which approach fits your family’s plans.Related articles:Family Investment Company (FIC) | Wealth Structuring GuideUnlimited vs limited liability in Family Investment Companies (FICs)What is an offshore bond?Trust and estate planningTrust Registration ServiceFor more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

March 24, 2026Episode 315 min

Tax planning for your assets and possessions: understanding exemptions, gifting and IHT

Your garage, loft or side table might be hiding a surprisingly tax-efficient asset. We sit down to unpack which personal possessions you can sell or give away in the UK without any tax implications. If you have assets such as art, collectables or classic cars, the difference between a clean gain and an unexpected tax charge often comes down to a few definitions and one or two easily missed rules. We talk through the practical capital gains tax (CGT) framework for private owners, after which we dig into chattels (tangible movable property), including real-world examples like books, comics, paintings and some more specific corners of HMRC guidance. The conversation then turns to two of the most useful exemptions and planning angles. First, “wasting assets” and the 50-year predictable life test; second, the chattels rules around the £6,000 threshold and the special gain-restriction calculation above that level.Lastly we look at real life habits you should always be instilling: good records, sensible valuations, and remembering that gifts to family are CGT disposals at market value, while holding valuables until death can increase inheritance tax exposure.If you’d like to read more about this topic, then our recent article, ‘Do I have to pay tax when selling or gifting personal possessions?’, gives further insight. Get in touch to discuss any of the issues and points raised.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

March 16, 2026Episode 215 min

Tax planning in 2026: the key changes you can't afford to miss

There are a number of significant tax changes occurring in 2026, and to help you stay ahead, we breakdown the key dates and deadlines you need to be aware of, including the appropriate actions you should be taking before 5th April 2026.Our podcast episode explores:Dividend tax increases: Rates rise for basic and higher-rate taxpayers from April 2026. We discuss if bringing dividends forward is the right move for your cash flow.BADR: With Business Asset Disposal Relief rising to 18% on 6 April, we explore why timing a disposal now could materially change your tax outcome.Making Tax Digital (MTD): Quarterly returns move from theory to reality for many self-employed individuals and landlords. We outline who is in scope and how to prepare.Looking to 2027: Why proposed changes to Pensions and Inheritance Tax are already driving major shifts in estate planning and gifting strategies.Year-end essentials: From ISA allowances to CGT holdover claims—the "boring" but essential steps to take before the deadline.We also have an article that highlights practical planning points to look over before the end of the tax year.If you have any questions on how these changes affect you, please get in touch. And don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

January 12, 2026Episode 117 min

HMRC enquiries: what to expect and how to prepare

In this episode, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges look at what really happens when HMRC opens an enquiry into your personal tax return. They discuss:- What HMRC compliance checks actually involve- Why enquiries are triggered- What is the difference between aspect and full reviews- Understand what your rights and responsibilities look like in practice. They also offer tips to avoid common mistakes and advice on staying organised so you’re prepared if HMRC gets in touch.Whether you’re facing an enquiry now or simply want to understand the process, preparation and good record-keeping are key. If you have questions about anything discussed or need support with an HMRC enquiry, our team is here to help.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

November 28, 202521 min

Tax planning following the 2025 Autumn Budget

With a mountain of speculation prior to this year’s Budget, there was considerable concern about potential forthcoming tax changes. However, it could be said that the announcements made on 26 November were not as monumental as feared. Nonetheless, there was still plenty to dissect so join us in our latest podcast episode where we uncover what was announced by Rachel Reeves and consider how it will impact you. Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges discuss:The further freezing of income tax rates,The new tax rates on property, savings and dividend income, Pensions salary sacrifice changes,The new High Value Council Tax surcharge, and The tax relief reduction for Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs).As mentioned in this podcast, you may find it useful to re-listen to our previous episodes on Family Investment Companies (FICs) and Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs).Additionally, don’t miss our full Budget analysis which is available on our website.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

November 20, 2025Episode 2019 min

How to navigate complex tax returns

Tax season can feel daunting – even for the most organised of taxpayers. While many returns are simple, certain sections quickly become complex, and small mistakes can lead to stress or even penalties.In our latest podcast episode, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges explore the trickier parts of a self‑assessment tax return and share practical strategies to help you stay confident and compliant.They explore:Foreign income and gains – navigating double tax relief and exchange rates,Capital gains – property, shares, and even crypto,Pension contributions and reliefs – annual allowance, carry forward, tapered allowances,Gift Aid and charitable donations – timing matters, andOther key reliefs and allowances to be wary of.Whether you’re filing for the first time or refining your approach, this episode gives you practical insights to stay ahead of deadlines and avoid costly mistakes.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

October 9, 2025Episode 1916 min

Gifting property and inheritance tax – what you should know

In our latest episode, we explore the increasingly relevant topic of passing on property – whether it’s your main home, a share of it, or a second property – and the tax implications that come with it.Our hosts Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges discuss:- Why more families are considering property gifts- How rising house prices affect IHT exposure- Key thresholds like the nil-rate and residence nil-rate bands- The challenge of funding IHT when wealth is tied up in bricks and mortar🎧 Listen now for practical insights and planning tips.Please note, this episode was recorded before the UK’s Autumn Budget 2025. All information reflects the law as it stood in September 2025 and may be subject to change.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

July 28, 2025Episode 1815 min

How the new non-dom rules could impact your retirement plans

Thinking of retiring abroad? The latest changes to the UK’s non-dom rules might be surprisingly good news for your financial planning.In this eye-opening discussion, our expert panel breaks down how the shift from domicile to residence-based taxation creates new opportunities for those considering an international retirement.Tax partner Alex Britton-Davis joins hosts Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges to explain the revolutionary change in how inheritance tax will apply to British nationals retiring overseas.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

June 26, 2025Episode 1726 min

Trustees explained: roles, responsibilities, and why choosing the right one matters

The world of trusts often feels complex, but at its core it's about safeguarding assets for others.Whether you're considering setting up a trust, have been asked to serve as a trustee, or are evaluating your current arrangements, this discussion offers guidance on finding the right trustee for your specific needs.Hosts, Leonora Stevens and Mike Hodges, are joined by Philip Radford from our Guernsey and Dubai office, and together they unpack the responsibilities of a trustee, the traits that make a good one, and whether it makes sense to appoint a trustee in the UK or an international finance centre.From the simplest family arrangements to sophisticated international structures involving multiple asset classes, our experts explore what makes a trustee effective and how to choose the right option for your circumstances.For more Private Wealth podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.com Follow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com