Coronavirus and your investments – part 2

I published an article on this topic on 4th March but with the ongoing situation and further stock markets falls, it is time for another.

With worries and panic across the world in respect of both health and all the knock-on economic issues, we have seen substantial falls in all stock markets so many people are asking what they should do regarding their investments. The falls have been more than anyone expected as the current situation in regard to COVID-19 are simply unprecedented. As before, my general advice is not to sell now, not least as you would simply be crystallising a loss. My clients are all diversified and have suitable risk profiles, in line with their preferences, although I understand if some want to reduce the risk levels a little. Please read on to find out more about what is happening, why, and what we can expect.

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UK Budget March 2020 – the facts for expats

This is the first budget of this Government and the first by Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, less than a month after taking over at the Treasury.

This article is a brief overview of some of the main points with particular reference to any changes that have relevance to those living outside of the UK. The UK press will cover many points in detail but much of this is not directly relevant to expats so this article focuses of the relevant points for us. I have included specific measure related to COVID-19 as this has a significant impact on the economy and a wide-ranging, knock-on effect.

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Coronavirus and your investments – part one

No one can avoid this subject right now but, in this article, I want to address the financial concerns, specifically in relation to investments. Global stock markets fell last week, the largest falls over a couple of days for 10 years, although some are moving upwards again at time of writing, and I do not believe this is a major cause for concern.

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Sharia law & your money in the UAE

Whilst most people are aware that Sharia law is the legal framework used in the GCC countries, not all expats have realised that this can affect them and their money.

  • Did you know that on death your bank accounts and assets in the UAE will be frozen?
  • Did you realise that your spouse, or other family members, may not get access for many months? Or that they may only get a small percentage?
  • Are you aware that your assets may not automatically go to your spouse?

November 2020. Some information in this article has been superceded by new legislation so please see this article for the lastest details regarding the laws on death while in the UAE:

New personal laws in the UAE but what do they really mean for you?

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UAE Public Holidays for 2019

These are the official dates of public holidays for the UAE for the coming year, as well as notable dates, so you can make a note in your diary now and plan ahead. Actual days off work for both the public and private sector should vary less than in the past and these are the dates announced by the Government so far.

This article was edited in September 2019 following an announcement by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).

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The 12 Days of Christmas – the cost of recreating it in the UAE

It’s the time of year for seasonal cheer and goodwill to all men so for a little fun I’ve put together something a little different. It can be tough to decide what to buy for your significant other, particularly when they seem to have everything, so sometimes you just need to be creative. Most people know the song The Twelve Days of Christmas so to show someone that they really are your true love you could go all out and recreate it!

Here is your guide  to how to find the appropriate gifts for all 12 days to your beloved. This is the UAE so we just have to do things a little differently but if you really want to impress the love of your life this Christmas here’s how you can do it, and most importantly what it is likely to cost you.

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Higher education costs – the facts and how to plan

This article has been superceded so please see the latest version published on 1st April 2021/

Higher education costs – the facts & how you can plan

Are your funds in the dog house?

This article has been updated so please see link for the latest version:

Are your investment funds in the dog house? | Financial Planning in the UAE (financialuae.me)

If you would like a chat about your investments and are interested in active future management, or have queries about any aspects of personal financial planning email me at keren@holbornassets.com

 

When your investments are more than just money

This article has been superceded so please see:

FinancialUAE – Why investing can be more than just money

 

For advice and assistance on the widest range of personal financial planning issues, to make an appointment, please contact me at keren@holbornassets.com and see other articles on this website for more useful information.

Need to know: New to Dubai? Important financial information

This article has been superseded by one published on 25th August 2020

New to Dubai? Important facts and financial information