The Strain Practice

10/08/2026

Six members of its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to keep rates on hold, with three voting for an increase. This compared to a seven-two vote in the previous MPC meeting.

28/05/2026

But market expectations are now that the base rate will rise during 2026. This is because inflation is likely to go up due to increased oil prices caused by the prolonged conflict in Iran. The Bank of England uses interest rates as a tool to control rising inflation.

24/03/2026

With the Iran conflict approaching the one-month mark, global markets are struggling to keep up with fast moving developments in the region.

16/03/2026

WeekWatch - 16/03/2026

05/03/2026

At a glance

•The latest attacks on Iran and its retaliatory strikes across the region led to a sell-off in global markets.
•While still volatile, many assets have since rebounded off their recent lows.
•History shows that stock markets recover after such shocks and the best outcome to maximise eventual returns is to remain invested.

The recent attacks on the Iranian leadership and subsequent retaliatory actions across the Middle East have caused widespread geopolitical volatility. Unsurprisingly, they have also left many investors wondering what actions they should now be considering.

12/02/2026

We're Growing Our Team

Delighted to welcome Pauline Grant to The Strain Practice Team

Pauline is CeMAP qualified as a Mortgage & Protection Adviser with over 20 years experience in the industry. She is looking forward to getting to know many of our existing clients as well as welcoming many more new clients in the years ahead.

The Strain Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management Plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority).

SJP Approved 09/02/2026

04/02/2026

Thanks to a combination of frozen tax thresholds, above average inflation and higher interest rates and changes announced in the recent Budget, many people may face higher tax bills this year. Here, we look at how you can use your pension and ISA allowances to make a big difference at tax year end.

28/01/2026

Those who have yet to file their online self-assessment tax return and settle any tax due have only a few days left to do so before facing a financial penalty.

07/11/2025

Best of luck to Madden Raparees & Saval Gaelic Athletic Club in their games this weekend ❤️🖤💚🤍

27/10/2025

Huge Congratulations Madden Raparees - you were unreal ❤️🖤

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