Category Archives: Business

Business

Expert Shares A-Z Guide On Probate And Estate Administration

An A-Z guide explaining the terms that relatives will come across when handling a loved one’s estate has been issued by an expert in a bid to try and help demystify the process.
The advice comes in the wake of a survey by the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, showing how nearly half of UK adults have not made a will and a third would rather watch TV than write their will.
It also found that 32% said they haven’t made a will because they do not know how to get started.
A study by Co-op Legal Services has also found widespread confusion over inheritance and estate issues.
Some 31% of people for example did not realise that an estate passes to the Crown if a person has no blood relatives and does not leave a will.
One of the UK’s leading experts on the subject, Steve Bish, fears many people are being needlessly put off by the process.
Steve, a Wills and estates expert, said: “The process of probate can seem daunting so an explanation of the terminology involved may help to avoid errors that can delay the whole process.
“Dealing with someone’s estate after their death can involve a number of different probate terms.
“We have put together a glossary of these to highlight some of the most commonly used words and phrases to help explain the probate and administration process.”
Here, Steve explains the terms that relatives will encounter when embarking on the process of probate:
Assets – all items owned by the deceased, to include money, property, investments and valuables.
  • Bequest – a gift left to someone in a Will.
  • Chattel – personal property, other than money, securities or business assets.
  • Deed of Variation – where the beneficiaries of a Will agree to change its terms. Usually done to make it more tax efficient or to benefit someone who wasn’t included in the original Will
  • Executor – deals with the administration of the deceased’s estate. An executor is appointed by the deceased in their Will.
  • Funeral wishes – It is possible to incorporate your funeral wishes into your will but these are not binding and we always recommend that you let those who may be organising it know of your wishes.
  • Grant of Probate – the legal document issued by the Probate Registry giving an executor legal authority to administer the deceased’s estate. This is the document that the executor will need to apply for where the deceased left a Will. A Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration is not needed in the case of a small estate, usually defined as less than £30,000.
  • Heir – a person who is legally entitled to the property of a deceased person, more commonly known as a beneficiary.
  • Intestacy – where the deceased died without leaving a Will.
  • Joint tenants – a form of property ownership between two or more people who share equal ownership and equal rights to the property.
  • Kin – a person’s family and relations are that person’s next of kin.
  • Legacy – another word for bequest, this is a gift left to someone in a Will.
  • Mediation – an informal process for helping people who have a dispute to resolve the dispute without going to Court.
  • Notice of Death – the document required to transfer property owned as joint tenants into the sole name of the surviving owner.
  • Offer of Compromise – a written offer made from one party to another party stating the terms on which they would be prepared to settle the dispute between them without going to Court.
  • Probate – this is often used to refer to the whole estate administration process as well as to the Grant of Probate itself.
  • Qualified Witness,  the persons who are authorised to witness the testator signing their Will. They must be over the age of 18, independent and have capacity.
  • Rules of Intestacy – when someone dies without a Will, their estate is distributed to beneficiaries in the order listed in the Rules of Intestacy. These rules set out those who are entitled to inherit in a set order of preference, starting with the deceased’s spouse and children.
  • Survivorship destination – a survivorship destination is a provision often inserted into the title deeds of a property which ensures that title is automatically passed to the other person or persons named on that title.
  • Testator  – the person who made the Will.
  • Undue Influence – where a will can be deemed invalid because the will maker was coerced or influenced by another person to include something in their will that is against their true wishes.
  • Valuation – the value of the estate at the time of death.
  • Witnessed – a will must be signed and witnessed to be valid so all 3 people (will maker and 2 witnesses) must be present together and must sign.
  • X – plus Facebook and other social media sites form part of our digital assets. When drafting a Will, most people will consider what happens to their physical assets such as their savings and their home. However, we are becoming increasingly reliant upon our digital assets and it is therefore important to consider how you want your digital assets to be distributed after your death.
  • You – can make your own will easily enough with a DIY kit. However, nobody with any professional experience would recommend this due to the many potential pitfalls.
  • Zoom – as of 12 Jan 2022, wills can continue to be witnessed via Zoom in England and Wales, measures first brought in during Covid.
If you would like further information on any estate planning issue, contact Steve Bish via https://www.sbishestateplanning.co.uk/about or on 01727 220930 or email contact@sbishestateplanning.com
Business, FInance

Rosebridge Ranked in Top 10 of the FTAdviser Top 100 Financial Advice Firms for 2024

Rosebridge, one of the North’s leading independent Chartered Financial Planning firms, is proud to announce its inclusion in the Top 10 of the prestigious FTAdviser Top 100 Financial Advice Firms list, alongside its sister company Pro Sport Wealth. This recognition highlights Rosebridge’s commitment to delivering exceptional financial advice and services.

The Financial Times evaluated firms based on key factors such as client retention, the expertise of Chartered and Certified Financial Planners, and impressive growth over the past year.

“We are celebrating being recognised in the Top 10  of the FTAdviser Top 100 Financial Advice Firms list. Rosebridge is an established firm of expert Chartered Financial Planners dedicated to providing a bespoke, specialist service. Our holistic approach to financial advice helps us gain a complete understanding of our clients’ needs. Whatever their requirements, we build a robust strategy to support clients with the advice and level of service they need to achieve their goals,” said Phil Rose, CEO.

Year on year, Rosebridge has demonstrated significant growth and dedication to excellence. The FTAdviser Top 100 list, announced on 24 September 2024, showcases the best in the UK financial advisory sector.

“Rosebridge has embraced Consumer Duty challenges and opportunities by investing in our team and innovation. We focus on training, consistent communication, managing client expectations, and leveraging technology to enhance service quality. We are committed to safeguarding client data and adapting to the evolving financial landscape,” explained Steven Banks, Head of Leeds office.

Rosebridge are committed to delivering the highest standard of professional service. With offices spread across the North of England, with national reach, Rosebridge help people achieve more from their financial circumstances, both now and in the future.

“Rosebridge has built a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and innovation. We are proud to be a highly qualified team with an award-winning impact. We pride ourselves on our ability to navigate the complexities of the financial landscape, offering expert advice on investments, retirement planning, estate planning, and more. Our client-centric approach is at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to providing value for money while building long-lasting relationships with our clients based on trust and transparency.” concluded Gareth Griffiths, Head of Chester office.

 

About Rosebridge:

Rosebridge Ltd Rosebridge and Pro Sport are Chartered Financial Planning businesses –  our reach encompasses the whole of the United Kingdom with offices across the North of England in Ramsbottom, Leeds, and Chester. We provide expert financial advice to our clients; the majority of whom are based within easy access to the M62 corridor, but with no geographical restriction, clients can be confident wherever they are and whatever their requirements their financial affairs will be in expert hands.

Rosebridge Ltd is honoured to be named one of the FTAdviser Top 10 Financial Advice Firms. This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence and our dedication to adapting to the evolving needs of our clients. We continue to embrace new technologies and regulatory changes, such as Consumer Duty, to enhance the quality of our services and safeguard client interests.

At Rosebridge Ltd, we believe in empowering our clients to achieve their financial goals and secure their financial future. Our mission is to provide clear, actionable advice that helps our clients make informed decisions and achieve financial peace of mind.

To date, they have invested hundreds of millions of funds – a testament to the trust their clients place on the firm.

For more information about Rosebridge, please visit: https://rosebridgeltd.com

 

Business, Business Finance, Cardiff, Employment

Cardiff Capital Region celebrates commitment to Real Living Wage

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) is now accredited as a Real Living Wage employer by the Living Wage Foundation. The Real Living Wage accreditation formally recognises CCR’s existing commitment to fair pay and driving inclusive economic growth.

The real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate based on the cost of living. In Wales, more than a tenth of all workers (12.9%) earn less than they need to get by, with around 161,000 jobs paying less than the real Living Wage.

CCR is also a tenant in Cardiff University’s sbarc|spark, Wales’ first Living Wage building which means all tenants are obliged to pay the real Living Wage to employees and onsite contractors.

Kellie Beirne, CCR’s Chief Executive, said:

“Fair economic opportunity is central to CCR’s ambitions to foster good growth across our Region. Our accreditation as a real Living Wage employer formally recognises our long-standing commitment to ensuring fair wages within our organisation, a milestone that sets the standard for businesses across our Region.

“By transitioning to a Corporate Joint Committee, CCR has gained new powers and responsibilities as an independent public body which has made formal accreditation possible, allowing us to carve our own identity and mature as an organisation. This will lay the groundwork for us to build upon our wider vision of regional prosperity.”

Councillor Huw Thomas, Leader of Cardiff Council and Deputy Chair, CCR Committee, adds:

“I am pleased that Cardiff Capital Region has gained the real Living Wage Accreditation. Since becoming a public body earlier this year, CCR’s commitment and determination to further fairer working in our Region aligns with Cardiff Council, which was the first capital city to become a real Living Wage City in 2019.

 

“As Chair of the Cardiff Real Living Wage Steering Group and Action Team, I’m an advocate for fair wages, which keep money within our local economy. After the Steering Group was recognised as ‘Local Champions’ at the Living Wage Champions Awards ceremony this summer, I’m glad to see further progress being made to strengthen the commitment to fair pay across the City Region.”

 

Councillor John Spanswick, Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council and Portfolio Lead for Economic Inclusion said:

“This is a very welcome pivotal move by the CCR team and it augurs well for future growth across the Region. Economic inclusion is the watchword for our ambitions to be a fairer and more prosperous Region.

By shining a spotlight on this issue we are taking determined steps to support our colleagues and demonstrate how valued everyone is.”

Katherine Chapman, Director, Living Wage Foundation said: “We’re delighted that CCR has joined the movement of over 14,000 responsible employers across the UK who voluntarily commit to go further than the government minimum to make sure all their staff earn enough to live on.

“They join thousands of businesses that recognise that paying the real Living Wage is the mark of a responsible employer and they, like CCR, believe that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay.”

Accountancy, Accountancy & Accounts, Accounts and Accountancy, Business, FInance, Finance and Banking

ACCA welcomes government action on late payment

Government action on late payment has been welcomed by leading accountancy body ACCA.

 

The announcement by Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, of a new Fair Payment Code to replace the Prompt Payment Code is the first step in the right direction.

 

Glenn Collins, head of technical and strategic engagement at ACCA, said: “We are pleased to see this move by the government today. ACCA has been a consistent and vocal supporter of the need to ensure small businesses are paid on time and have clear knowledge of the payment practices of who they are doing business with. It is a great first step but there will be more work to do. We look forward to participating in the consultation on the proposed new laws.

 

“Late payment and unfair practices continues to blight small businesses across the UK. We have long called for urgent implementation of proposed improvements to tackle late payment problems, including expansion of prompt payment reporting and the proposed expansion of powers for the Small Business Commissioner (SBC).  We are glad that some initiatives are now being taken.”

 

Lloyd Powell, head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, added: “Small businesses account for more than 99% of businesses in Wales. It is vital that they are able to get paid on time, as cashflow drying up can be a serious problem for them, more so than larger businesses.

 

“We are pleased that the SBC has been given extra powers to tackle some of the defaulters under the old code, however we will be calling for additional reforms to provide more transparency in this area.

 

“Clearly this is voluntary, but we urge Welsh businesses across the supply chain to see how they can sign up to this enhanced code and work together to eradicate the scourge of late payment.”

 

Based on the insight from members over the last two decades, ACCA is clear that late payment is a persistent problem in the UK. Poor payment practices have a domino effect throughout supply chains, with severe consequences for cashflow and the survival of SMEs. To rectify this situation, strong action – including a decisive culture shift – is required.

Appointments, Business, Business News

New appointment to support Welsh businesses’ trade ambitions

Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid has appointed David Peña as its new International Trade Manager.

David, who is originally from Barcelona and speaks English, Catalan, French and Spanish, joins the Chamber from International Trade Matters.

With his professional career spanning the retail sector, licensing industry, business development and trade support, David brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with him to the Chamber.

In his varied career he has worked in culturally different companies, opened access to new markets for companies in all continents and liaised with businesses, organisations and brands such as Asmodee, Ministry of Defence (UK), Royal British Legion and The Smurfs.

Additionally, David holds a Level 5 Diploma in International Trade from the Institute of Export where he is a full member and was awarded twice in his graduation ceremony including the Prize for Academic Excellence from the Worshipful Company of World Traders.

In his new role, David will lead the trade team at the Chamber and assist members, partners and businesses in Wales with their exporting and importing needs including compliance, training, access to new markets and supply chain connectivity. David will share his invaluable knowledge and experience, becoming an asset to the team.

David said: “I am looking forward to supporting all our members in their international trade journey. I know from experience how challenging it can be, but I trust that Chambers Wales will be the right partner to be alongside our members at every step of the journey.

“As a native Catalonian and a Catalan speaker, I fully understand the particularities of being a nation within a nation, and the challenges but also the opportunities that this uniqueness can bring to the table.”

In his spare time, David trains with his local rugby club and plays the occasional veterans game as a scrum half.

Commenting on David’s appointment, Penny Lock, Director of Partnerships at Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming David as a core member of our team who will be instrumental in supporting our members in their international trade journeys.

“This appointment represents another step in our mission of taking Welsh businesses to the world across our global network. David will be a tremendous asset to the Chamber, and we are very excited to work with him and to learn from his invaluable knowledge.”

Accountancy & Accounts, Business, Business Investment, Cardiff, Cardiff News, Law, Tech

Acuity Law launches My Digital Lawyer – a legal tech platform for businesses

Acuity Law has announced the launch of My Digital Lawyer, a brand-new legal tech platform for businesses aimed at saving them time and money.

My Digital Lawyer provides a range of digital tools and services, including cutting-edge automated document builder Document Assist, an extensive bank of legal know-how, and a growing library of exclusive articles and content.

“My Digital Lawyer will save our business clients time and money,” explains Acuity Law’s Managing Partner Claire Knowles.

“Using our custom-built tools, they can handle many legal tasks themselves, building their own contracts and basic documentation with Document Assist, or using our jargon-free Knowledge Bank guides to put together policies and compliance processes.

“Fundamentally, we want to help businesses improve efficiencies. But we’ve also got them covered for when they need specialist help or the reassurance of in-person advice – because My Digital Lawyer subscribers also benefit from direct access to specialist legal advice within the terms of their subscription.”

Uniquely among law firms, some of which offer client portals for document-sharing and communication, Acuity Law’s My Digital Lawyer is available to all businesses, not simply Acuity clients.

The platform delivers all that a client portal would – allowing clients to track their live matters and tasks – while also allowing non-client subscribers access to market-leading guidance and digital tools.

“We are confident that no other law firm can offer the 360-degree digital support that My Digital Lawyer provides,” says Claire.

“At the same time, no legal tech platform can offer the expert lawyer-led wraparound in-person support and added reassurance of My Digital Lawyer.”

The platform has been developed entirely in-house at Acuity Law, using the firm own development team and branding specialists.

“We are proud of the in-house teams we have developed at Acuity Law,” says Acuity Law Chairman Steve Berry. “We are committed to driving legal services forward and providing innovation-led services to both our clients and the wider business community. My Digital Lawyer subscribers can expect further tools and services in the months ahead, as Acuity Law further grows and develops the platform. So watch this space!”

Headquartered in Cardiff, Acuity Law is a fast-growing law firm with over 150 lawyers supporting business clients throughout the UK. The firm’s ambitious growth strategy has seen it open offices in Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool in recent years, adding to its presence in Bristol, London and Swansea.

Business, Car News, Carbon Reduction, Cardiff, Climate Action

Cardiff University launch new electric fleet

Cardiff University has launched its new electric vehicle (EV) fleet, a significant step towards achieving its net-zero emissions goals.

The vehicles, purchased through the Welsh Government collaborative procurement framework and supported by the Welsh Government Energy Service, were sourced by FleetEV, a local EV solutions provider. FleetEV focuses on helping organisations transition to electric vehicles through comprehensive leasing, salary sacrifice, and fleet solutions tailored to diverse client needs.

The new fleet includes Renault and Vauxhall vans, as well as Citroen Ami’s, which have been wrapped by Popin Graphics. These EVs will replace a portion of the university’s fleet of 60 vehicles, and the efficient Ami’s will help reduce the cost of ownership and environmental impact.

The EVs have also been named, following a competition for staff and students to submit their favourites. Winners included Pen E Van, Sos-fan-Fach and Myfanwy.

Professor Monjur Mourshed, Cardiff University’s Dean of Environmental Sustainability, said: “We are delighted to introduce our new EV fleet, which includes a range of vehicle sizes to accommodate our diverse transportation needs. The lighter, more compact vehicles are ideally suited for navigating our urban campus while contributing to our carbon emissions reduction goals. This investment marks a step forward in decarbonising our fleet and demonstrates our commitment to environmental sustainability.”

Jarrad Morris, CEO and Founder of FleetEV, and Cardiff University alumni, said: “We were so pleased to have played a part in Cardiff University’s move to electric campus vehicles. Each institution and business that recognises the importance of EVs and implements change is helping us take a significant step towards a greener, cleaner and more sustainable future, and it means even more that it is my alma mater leading the way.”

Business, Business Investment, Caerphilly, Cardiff

Cardiff Capital Region’s £45m investment in Ogi to boost digital connectivity for South East Wales

The £45m investment from Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) into Ogi, Wales’ biggest alternative network provider, represents CCR’s largest single investment into a company since its formation in 2017. The debt-financing package aims to develop and transform digital capabilities in villages, towns and cities across the Cardiff Capital Region, helping to reduce digital disparities and offer local communities and businesses reliable services and ultrafast connectivity.

Businesses will be positively impacted by having better reliable broadband, enabling greater productivity, cloud computing, AI and data storage. The investment is also foundational to the development of CCR’s high-tech sectors and key to ongoing developments like the Investment Zone.

One of CCR’s key priority sectors, the creative industries has already benefited from Ogi’s data connectivity capabilities, with the recent 2024 Paralympics live produced remotely at The Broadcast Centre Cymru in central Cardiff.

Ogi’s new full fibre infrastructure is bypassing old, worn-out connections and giving people working and living in the Region a new level of connectivity. The package will bring many benefits including local employment, and with 100,000 premises already on the new fibre to the premise [FTTP] network, it’s Ogi’s ambition to reach many more.

 

Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith said:

“This is a significant investment by Cardiff Capital Region, backed by the UK Government, which will be transformational for many people and businesses in south east Wales. Good digital connectivity is vital for economic growth and to enable people to access services and enjoy their leisure time.

“I’m delighted that the investment is being put into a Welsh company, Ogi, demonstrating the benefits of working together to create jobs and prosperity.”

 

Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council and Chair of Cardiff Capital Region Committee, said:

“This investment on a practical level means so much for residents and businesses who may have previously struggled with broadband connectivity. Bringing our Region quite literally up to speed will enhance not only user experience, but also encourage further opportunities and economic growth that align with CCR’s vision for an inclusive, next generation digital infrastructure.”

 

Cllr Andrew Morgan, Leader Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
and Portfolio Holder for Infrastructure and Major Projects Delivery, said:

“This major project is being delivered with the express aim of enabling our Region to compete on so many levels. I’m looking forward to the next stages of this Welsh company’s development and seeing even more of the Region benefit from the capabilities of full fibre today, in readiness for tomorrow.”

 

Ogi’s Chief Executive Officer, Ben Allwright, said:

“Right from the start, our ambition has been to become a leading Welsh telecoms company, and the last few years have certainly laid strong foundations for that goal.

“With key strategic sites like Aberthaw to the south and the heads of the valleys to the north, there’s massive potential across the capital region – and partnering with CCR at such an exciting time in their own development is the next logical step for Ogi’s growth in southeast Wales.”

Business, Cardiff, Charity, Charity Events, Healthcare, South Wales, Wales

Leaders and legends lunch to connect charity with business community

City Hospice has announced that its inaugural Chair’s Lunch will take place on 18 October at the Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff.

Established in 1984, the charity is marking its 40th anniversary this year.

The exclusive ‘Leaders & Legends’ event, organised by the charity’s Chair Michael Baker and sponsored by Brewin Dolphin, will provide the south Wales business community with an opportunity to engage and celebrate with the charity in its 40th anniversary year and hear unique leadership insights from two of Wales’ most influential sporting figures.

Interviewed by Deborah Thomas, special guests Nigel Walker OBE and Sam Warburton OBE will share their experiences and thoughts on leadership on and off the rugby field.

The event will support City Hospice, the only provider of community specialist palliative care for patients in Cardiff with terminal or life limiting illnesses. The charity provides care and a range of services including welfare advice and complementary therapies for patients, as well as bereavement support and counselling for the families of its patients.

Michael Baker, Chair of City Hospice, said: “As the Chair of the board of trustees, I wanted to showcase and share the incredible work of City Hospice with the local business community in this special anniversary year.

“With my experience in consultancy focusing on management and leadership, the event just had to be with leaders and legends! It is the perfect opportunity to highlight the charity’s fantastic work. I am extremely grateful to Deborah, Nigel and Sam for being a part of our first Chair’s Lunch and hope guests gain inspiration from their leadership journeys.”

Deborah Thomas said: “Having been personally touched by City Hospice’s care and compassion, the Chair’s Lunch provides me with a chance to give back in a very special way. I am excited to interview Nigel and Sam and learn more about their perspectives on leadership.”

Nigel Walker OBE, WRU Executive Director of Rugby and City Hospice Ambassador, said: “I am thrilled to be a part of this exclusive business event in the charity’s ruby anniversary year. As well as hearing from Sam and I on leadership, I hope that businesses grasp this opportunity to engage with and learn more about the brilliant care and services City Hospice provides.”

For further information including booking details, visit https://www.cityhospice.org.uk/get-involved/upcoming-events/chairmans-lunch-leaders-legends/

Accountancy, Accountancy & Accounts, Accounts and Accountancy, Business, Charity, Charity Events, Newport, Tax

Kilsby Williams announces charity of the year

Tax and accountancy specialist Kilsby Williams has announced that it will be supporting Calon Hearts as its charity of the year.

Calon Hearts is a Cardiff-based charity which promotes heart health in Wales and across the UK.

Less than one in ten people survive an out of hospital cardiac arrest but survival rates can be increased significantly if a defibrillator is used and CPR is performed. The charity’s mission includes teaching valuable CPR and first aid skills, and ensuring communities have access to defibrillators and are trained in how to use them.

Calon Hearts also provides free heart screenings for people aged between 16 and 25 to detect life-threatening heart conditions that often go undetected.

To kickstart their fundraising efforts, a team of around 20 from the firm has signed up to run the Cardiff Half Marathon on 6 October.

Dafydd Ford, partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “We are pleased to share that we will be supporting Calon Hearts over the next year, raising awareness of heart health and funds to support their vital work. This is a cause we are passionate about as we sadly lost our colleague Rob Harding earlier this year and we want to make a difference in his memory.

“We’ll be beginning our fundraising challenges with the Cardiff Half Marathon. A half marathon is no mean feat; the team is training hard to pound the streets of Cardiff and do Rob and his family proud.”

Sharon Owen, founder of Calon Hearts, said: “We are delighted that Newport-based accountants, Kilsby Williams, has chosen Calon Hearts as its charity of the year and are greatly appreciative of this support.

“Calon Hearts has worked tirelessly since the charity was founded over 11 years ago to raise awareness of the vital importance of heart health and, to date, has installed over 30,400 defibrillators, provided CPR training to over 99,900 people and screened over 17,000 hearts for potentially life-threatening conditions.

“Calon Hearts would like to wish the Kilsby Williams team the best of luck in the Cardiff Half Marathon, which will launch their fundraising challenges in memory of their colleague.”