As we approach the end of 2024 and look ahead to 2025, we want to take a moment to reflect on the past year and express our gratitude for your continued trust and partnership.

This year has brought both challenges and opportunities for the financial services and pensions sector.

From navigating evolving regulations to addressing economic pressures, the resilience and dedication of our industry have been evident throughout.

The Autumn Budget presented us with our biggest challenge

At Intelligent Pensions, the unprecedented speculation that preceded the new Labour government’s first Budget was perhaps our biggest challenge.

The chancellor’s decision not to change how much tax-free cash people can withdraw from their pensions was welcome. We now await the detailed outcome of the consultation on pensions and Inheritance Tax changes, which are proposed to take effect from 6 April 2027.

As always, our team is here to answer any questions you may have about these changes and support you in navigating these developments.

We welcomed 2 new team members in 2024

The Intelligent Pensions team continues to grow, and we have loved welcoming several new faces to the firm this year.

Ian Wilcock, financial planner

In May, Ian Wilcock joined us as a financial planner in the north of England. With 11 years of experience, Ian is dedicated to delivering holistic financial planning services to his clients.

Samuel Goldie, client support team

In October, Samuel Goldie joined the client support team. Samuel has broad experience, including six years working across a variety of financial services products. He has already added great value to the service we offer our clients.

5 longstanding team members celebrated significant milestones

As much as we enjoy welcoming new faces to the team, we also love celebrating the achievements of our longstanding staff.

Graham Shedden will retire in February 2025

 

Graham, our company accountant and secretary, will retire early next year after being with Intelligent Pensions since the very beginning.

We thank him for his loyal service and wish him a long and enjoyable retirement.

When asked about his time at the firm, Graham said, “As I reflect on the journey since Intelligent Pensions began trading in 1998, I feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude.

“Over the past 26 years, I have had the privilege of overseeing the company’s finances as the firm grew and evolved into the thriving business it is today.

“Throughout this time, I’ve witnessed incredible transformations, worked with many talented individuals, and built lasting friendships. It has been an honour to be part of this remarkable journey.

“Now, however, the time has come for me to step aside and pass the torch to a new steward of Intelligent Pensions’ financials. I am confident that the company will continue to flourish and reach new heights in the years to come.”

Donald Matheson celebrates 25 years with us

In February, our IT and systems manager reached an impressive 25-year milestone at Intelligent Pensions.

Reflecting on his work anniversary, Donald said, “It’s hard to believe that I have been with the company for nearly 26 years.

“It has been a privilege to witness Intelligent Pensions’ transformation from a small business into the thriving company it is today.

“When I first started, we had just one PC with a dial-up internet connection. We had to book time to use it, and it took 20 minutes just to download a single quote! As technology has advanced, we’ve grown and adapted alongside it.

“I’m excited to continue contributing to our team’s success as we navigate the future together.”

Claire Wright and Karen Traquair celebrated their 10-year anniversaries with us

Claire Wright                                                                                                Karen Traquair

Claire, a financial planner in Glasgow, and Karen, our investment manager, both reached their 10-year anniversaries at Intelligent Pensions this year.

When asked how she felt about this significant milestone, Claire said, “Where did those 10 years go?

“My time at Intelligent Pensions has been incredibly fulfilling. Helping clients navigate pensions and retirement planning through the challenges of changing regulations, shifting governments, and even a global pandemic, has been both rewarding and humbling.

“It’s been inspiring to work alongside such dedicated colleagues, who always put their clients’ best interests at the heart of everything they do.”

Karen commented, “Time flies! Over the past decade, my journey at Intelligent Pensions has been one of learning, growth, and accomplishment.

“I’ve had the privilege of building meaningful relationships with clients and colleagues while honing my skills and expanding my knowledge in financial services.

“These years have been instrumental in shaping my career and have also been deeply rewarding on a personal level.”

Looking ahead to 2025

As we prepare for 2025, we remain committed to supporting you in meeting new demands while continuing to deliver value and innovative solutions.

Thank you once again for placing your trust in us. We look forward to building on our partnership in the coming year. Together, we’ll tackle the challenges ahead and embrace opportunities to shape a more secure financial future.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season filled with peace, health, and happiness. Here’s to a successful and prosperous 2025!

Get in touch

If you’d like to know more about how we can help you with all aspects of your financial planning in 2025 and beyond, please get in touch.

Email hello@intelligentpensions.com or call 0800 077 8807.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.