Selling a business isn’t just a financial event, it’s a turning point in your life. For many founders, it brings a powerful combination of excitement, relief, exhaustion, and uncertainty. While your bank balance may look healthier than ever, the emotional toll of a sale is often underestimated.

“The sale of a business is a life-changing event, often bringing significant financial gain but also emotional overload.”

 What follows is a high-stakes moment: decisions made in the days, weeks and months after an exit can shape your financial legacy for decades. Yet this is also when many entrepreneurs experience what's known as deal fatigue: a combination of mental exhaustion, uncertainty, and diminished decision-making capacity.

Rather than rushing into investments or sweeping financial plans, wealth professionals advise taking a deliberate approach: pause, plan and protect.

The instinct to act fast after a sale is strong, to invest the lump sum, start a new venture or make big purchases. But this moment calls for clarity, not speed. Your risk appetite may be temporarily skewed, and your long-term goals might still be unclear.

“To create a financial plan and an investment strategy that’s right for you, it’s important to first take the time to understand exactly what you want life to look like.”

This period of reflection is not wasted time, it’s a necessary buffer that helps ensure your next moves are aligned with what matters most to you and your family.

The Four-Box Framework: A Balanced Wealth Holding Strategy

To help business owners organise their newly acquired wealth while they gain clarity, Evelyn proposes a four-box structure: a practical holding framework that balances safety, liquidity, and flexibility.

This is the foundation of any financial plan, ensuring you can meet short-term needs without selling investments or incurring penalties. These funds typically sit in instant-access savings accounts or money market vehicles.

The key here is peace of mind. Knowing you have readily available capital reduces anxiety and protects you from being forced into poor decisions under pressure.

Tip from Evelyn Partners: Diversify across institutions to stay under the £85,000 Financial Services Compensation Scheme compensation limit per provider.

Most entrepreneurs will see a drop in regular income after a sale, especially if they move into a non-executive or consulting role. If your lifestyle was supported by business profits or dividends, you’ll want to plan for that shortfall.

Evelyn Partners uses a simple example: dropping from £200,000 in annual income to an £80,000 salary. That £120,000 difference can be covered with ring-fenced, low-volatility assets, giving you breathing room while new routines and roles take shape.

From paying off tax bills to buying a dream home, major purchases often follow a business exit. This “celebration fund” is not just about indulgence, it’s about smartly allocating for large, known expenses.

Setting aside money for these events keeps your long-term investment strategy intact. It avoids premature drawdowns, and it gives you space to enjoy your success without disrupting your portfolio.

This is your future. But it shouldn’t be your immediate focus. 

“It can be easy to make less-than-optimal decisions in the heat of the moment.”

Jumping into complex investments too early, before your goals and mindset have settled, can lead to regret. Taking a staged approach allows you to build a portfolio that matches your real values and tolerance for risk.

Managing Inflation Risk: Consider Gilt Ladders

In an inflationary environment, cash loses value, but equities may feel too volatile in the short term. One solution is the gilt ladder: a staggered set of UK government bonds with maturities matched to your future cash flow needs.

Reduced reliance on risk assets in the near term

 explains: “Matching gilts with your income requirements can provide the potential for a better return than cash, without the risk of equities.”

Gilt Ladders offer a more predictable return than cash and carry less risk than equities, making them a useful way to preserve capital while still earning modest growth.

Major liquidity events are not only financial, but they’re also deeply personal. Life post-sale may feel uncertain or even aimless, especially if your business was a defining part of your identity. Wealth managers increasingly recognise that emotional well-being and financial planning must go hand in hand.

Evelyn Partners’ post-sale planning guide

: “The period after a transaction is complete is a good time to pause and reflect on both the past and the future. This has obvious benefits from a mental health and well-being perspective...”

This intentional pause offers space to redefine what success and purpose look like moving forward. During this time, professional advice is as much about coaching and clarity as it is about asset allocation.

Post-sale financial planning encompasses more than just managing spreadsheets; it involves navigating complex areas such as tax laws, behavioural biases, family governance, and evolving personal goals.​

 emphasises the importance of adaptability in wealth management:​ 

"Your circumstances and financial position will change over time; our ability to adapt to your requirements ensures that your portfolio will meet your needs throughout."

Engaging with a skilled wealth manager can provide comprehensive support, coordinating aspects like estate planning, asset allocation, pension consolidation, and philanthropic giving, all tailored to align with your next chapter in life.

Your business exit is a milestone. Don’t let deal fatigue or urgency undermine what you've worked for. Using a simple four-box framework can protect your capital, give you space to reflect, and ensure that when you're ready to plan for the long term, you’ll do so with clarity and purpose.

Compare Wealth Managers can help to connect you with leading wealth management firms like Evelyn Partners, Quilter Cheviot and others; click the orange “Start comparing” button to begin now or check out our 5* reviews from 

What to Do with the Money: Smart Post-Sale Planning for Business Owners

Each week, we provide you with the latest news that may impact the market and, consequently, your investments. Stay informed with Compare Wealth Managers. Here’s what investors should know:

British Solar Power Surges Past 2024 Total

, by mid-August, the UK had already generated 14.08 TWh of solar electricity, surpassing the entire 2024 figure. That’s enough to power 5.2 million homes, with capacity up 20% year-on-year. With record sunshine and growing capacity, solar is becoming a cornerstone of Britain’s energy transition.

Utility-scale solar and storage projects are drawing strong institutional inflows.

Renewables and clean-tech firms are gaining relative value under policy support.

Battery storage and grid upgrades present new investable themes.

Solar aligns with ESG, infrastructure, and long-duration growth portfolios.

UK Construction Hits Steepest Decline Since Covid

, UK construction activity fell sharply in July, with the sector’s PMI dropping to 44.3 from 48.8 in June, its steepest decline since the pandemic. Housebuilding bore the brunt, raising concerns over supply shortages and the government’s housing targets.

Supply constraints may push property prices higher.

Slowing new builds could reshape mortgage demand.

Fewer completions could boost rental yields, though with more regulatory risk.

Some investors are reallocating toward infrastructure, REITs, or alternatives.

, retail investors in the UK now rank defence and military industries ahead of AI as a growth theme. Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems have posted double-digit gains, as rising budgets and geopolitical volatility strengthen the sector’s appeal.

Defence offers a hedge against cyclical and tech volatility.

New “future of defence” ETFs provide easier diversified entry.

Increased NATO and UK commitments underpin long-term order books.

Sterling strength versus dollar-based defence revenues shapes allocations.

FTSE 100 Index: 9,312.73, up 3.53 points (+0.04%) 

Brent Crude Oil: $67.76 per barrel, up $0.09 (+0.13%) 

This brief is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult a qualified adviser before making investment decisions.

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Weekly Market Brief: 16th-22nd August 2025

Each week, we bring you a sharply curated roundup of the key economic and market developments - and the investment ripples they may cause. In this Weekly Market Brief: 9th–15th August 2025, we unpack everything from productivity pressures and central bank updates to green-energy stimulus. Stay well-informed and ahead of the curve with Compare Wealth Managers.

, workers aged 50+ now make up roughly 31% of UK employment in key growth sectors. Yet each year, about 437,000 leave these roles through early retirement, ill health, or other factors, resulting in an estimated £31 billion in lost output and £11.5 billion in forgone tax revenue.

As the UK population ages, retaining and supporting older workers is increasingly vital for economic resilience. This demographic shift has deep implications for growth, fiscal stability, and investment returns.

Clean energy and professional services face mounting skill shortages.

New measures to keep over-50s in work could influence labour costs and productivity trends.

Longer working lives may call for more flexible pensions and liability-matching strategies.

Slower productivity growth could weigh on markets; defensive portfolio positioning may help.

 reports the Bank of England has reduced its projected losses from quantitative easing to £115 billion, down from £120 billion, but the fiscal burden remains heavy. Elevated debt-servicing costs could keep gilt yields higher for longer, constraining fiscal policy and public spending flexibility.

Greater gilt supply could suppress prices; careful duration management is essential.

Long-term debt costs may drive changes in tax policy and spending priorities.

Higher yields improve funding ratios on paper but can dent existing bond values; inflation remains a key variable.

Exposure to non-UK bonds or alternative fixed income can mitigate UK gilt risks.

Great British Energy: £8.3bn Kick-Start for UK Renewables

, the Great British Energy Act 2025 has launched a state-backed clean energy company with £8.3 billion in public funding to accelerate renewable projects. This aims to strengthen energy security, generate green jobs, and catalyse private investment.

Public support could lift valuations in clean-tech, wind, and grid infrastructure.

Attractive income opportunities with sustainability benefits.

Rising co-investment deals in solar, offshore wind, and grid upgrades.

Allocations to GB Energy projects can balance fossil fuel exposure.

FTSE 100 Index: 9,178.26, up 1.02 points (+0.01%) 

Brent Crude Oil: $66.40 per barrel, down $0.44 (-0.66%) 

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Weekly Market Brief: 9th–15th August 2025

Are you thinking about buying a second property, flipping houses, or investing through a company in 2025? This guide explores the financial and tax implications of property investment in today’s UK market, with explanations and stats to help you decide.

A Shifting Landscape for UK Property Investors

The UK property market has long been viewed as a stable route to building wealth. But in 2025, would-be investors face a more complex environment: rising mortgage rates, reduced tax reliefs and stricter regulations for landlords.

Whether you're considering a second home, a buy-to-let through a company or flipping for profit, it's time to ask: 

Buying a Second Property: Still a Smart Move?

Purchasing a second property, often for rental income or long-term appreciation, can offer financial upside, but the barriers to entry have increased.

Monthly rental income (UK average rent: £1,339 per month as of May 2025 via 

Long-term capital appreciation, especially in high-demand areas

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) surcharge of 3% on additional properties (via 

Higher interest rates for second property mortgages (typical rates 5.5-6.5%)

Ongoing costs: insurance, letting agent fees, maintenance, and void periods

 It is worth considering in growth areas or for retirement planning, but only with strong rental yield and a clear exit strategy.

Flipping Property in 2025: Profitable or Pipedream?

Property flipping, buying, renovating and selling for profit, can generate quick returns, but it comes with risk.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) of up to 24% on profit for higher-rate taxpayers (

Rising material and labour costs post-Brexit and during ongoing inflation (

Local councils are tightening planning permission timelines

If you buy a home for £250,000, spend £50,000 on refurbishment, and sell for £350,000, your taxable gain is £50,000. As a higher-rate taxpayer, CGT could be as much as £12,000.

 Still viable for experienced investors, but tight margins mean due diligence and accurate cost forecasting are essential.

Should You Use a Limited Company to Invest in Property?

There’s been a surge in landlords using limited companies to hold property, over 320,000 buy-to-let properties are now owned via corporate structures, via 

Mortgage interest is fully tax-deductible for companies (unlike personal ownership, where relief is limited)

Corporation tax capped at 25% vs. personal income tax of up to 45%

Ability to retain profits within the business for reinvestment

Higher mortgage rates for company borrowers (typically 0.5-1% more)

Annual reporting obligations and accounting costs

Personal use of property becomes restricted

 Investors building a portfolio or higher-rate taxpayers looking to reduce tax exposure over the long term.

Understanding the 2025 Tax Landscape for Property Investors

Taxes have become a major deciding factor in property investment, so staying on top of them is vital for successful investors.

Make sure you always factor in tax when assessing potential returns, particularly on short-term holds and second homes.

Is Property Still a Good Investment Compared to Other Assets?

UK residential property values grew 3.5% in the year to May 2025, with London and the South East seeing the strongest performance (

). Rental yields remain solid, averaging 5.2% across the UK, and up to 7% in parts of the Midlands and North West, according to 

UK equities returned 9.4% over the past 12 months (

Private credit and infrastructure funds are offering stable 6-9% yields with less hassle

REITs offer hands-off property exposure with liquidity

 Property remains a good diversifier, but it’s no longer the only viable route for capital preservation or income generation.

Is Investing in Property Worth It in 2025?

 Property can still deliver long-term wealth, but it's become a more hands-on, tax-sensitive, and financially demanding asset class.

But if you’re looking for passive income, minimal tax hassle, and flexibility? Consider 

Is property still a good investment in the UK?

Yes, especially for long-term investors seeking income and capital growth, but returns vary by location, structure, and tax efficiency.

Should I set up a company to buy property?

Possibly, if you’re a higher-rate taxpayer or plan to build a portfolio. Companies offer tax advantages but come with admin overheads.

Can I avoid the second home stamp duty surcharge?

Only if you’re replacing your main residence and complete the sale of your existing home within 36 months.

Looking to explore tax-efficient property investment or compare alternatives? 

 connects you with FCA-regulated advisers who can help tailor strategies to your goals. Simply click the orange “Start comparing” button to explore your options now.

Is Investing in Property Worth It? A 2025 Guide for UK Investors

Every week, we deliver key market updates and insights that could influence your investments. Keep ahead of the curve with Compare Wealth Managers.

 draws parallels between the UK’s post-Brexit trading environment and the U.S. tariffs introduced under President Trump. Both sets of policies were politically driven and inflicted their greatest damage not through immediate shocks, but through persistent supply chain disruptions, reduced investment, and diminished productivity.

In the UK, the Office for Budget Responsibility estimates Brexit has cut trade openness by 15% and productivity by 4%, weakening GDP growth. Meanwhile, U.S. Federal Reserve researchers found long-term job and investment losses in tariff-affected industries.

International firms face margin risk from supply chain and export disruptions.

Rising geopolitical tension could amplify GBP and USD swings—hedging matters more.

Wealth managers are advising more globally spread portfolios to manage regional risks.

Mid-market private equity and credit offer uncorrelated returns away from domestic pressures.

Private Equity Cools: A Sector Repricing?

Global private equity activity slumped in Q2 2025, with deal volumes dropping 17% from Q1 (4,527 to 3,769) and investment value collapsing from $505B to $364B, according to 

Persistent high interest rates and fewer exit opportunities are forcing a strategic rethink across the industry.

Investors are shifting from illiquid PE toward public markets and bonds for flexibility.

Demand is rising for discounted secondaries as investors seek earlier exits.

Tail-end funds charging ongoing management fees face rising pressure to justify value.

Operational growth, not financial engineering, is now essential for performance.

Chancellor Rejects Wealth Tax (But Not Stealth Moves)

The Chancellor has ruled out introducing a UK wealth tax, according to 

. However, advisers warn that stealth taxation is already ramping up. The Treasury is expected to freeze thresholds, tighten reliefs, and increase enforcement to boost revenues, all without announcing major new taxes.

More estates are being pulled into inheritance and higher income tax bands.

Investors are weighing when to realise gains based on potential future changes.

Despite no wealth tax, scrutiny on HNW structures is increasing.

Earlier consultations suggest possible UK rule changes still to come.

FTSE 100 Index: 9,088.28, down 12.49 points (-0.14%) 

GBP/USD Exchange Rate: 1.1659, down 0.0009 (-0.08%) 

Brent Crude Oil: $66.93 per barrel, down $0.50 (+0.75%) 

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Weekly Market Brief: 2nd-8th August 2025

Each week, we provide you with the latest news that may impact the market and, consequently, your investments. Stay informed with Compare Wealth Managers.

With interest rates still elevated, many high-net-worth individuals are holding unprecedented levels of cash and near-cash assets. In fact, via 

 UK households now sit on £1.9 trillion in cash and savings, a historic high.

Even with higher interest, inflation is quietly eroding real returns.

Short-term fixed income (gilts, T-bills): 

These offer a compelling alternative with liquidity and minimal volatility.

Keeping too much in cash may mean missing equity rebounds or private market opportunities.

ISAs, bonds, and insurance-based structures can make holding income-generating assets more tax-efficient than cash.

Cash can be a defensive asset, but it’s also a wasted opportunity without a plan.

The Bank of England is expected to cut interest rates twice in 2025, once in August and again in November, according to a new 

This would bring the base rate down to 3.75% by year-end, as the UK economy grows steadily (1.2% GDP forecast) and inflation cools to 3.6%, though still above the 2% target.

The BoE’s shift reflects an attempt to support households and businesses without stoking a second wave of inflation.

With borrowing costs falling, rate-sensitive assets like bonds, infrastructure, and growth equities may benefit, but inflation is still sticky.

Opportunities in long-duration bonds, which may gain as yields fall

Shifts in UK housing and mortgage markets

Asset rebalancing to reduce cash drag and inflation exposure

Portfolio reviews now can help investors rebalance risk and return ahead of a lower-rate environment.

HMRC collected £8.2 billion in inheritance tax in the 2024/25 tax year, via 

, marking a record increase, driven by frozen nil-rate bands and rising property and asset values. More estates are being affected as thresholds remain unchanged since the late 2000s

Many families don’t realise their estates now fall above the £325,000 nil-rate band, exposing them to the standard 40% IHT charge, even on assets like property or modest portfolios.

Using the annual and seven-year giver rules to shrink your taxable estate while retaining control.

Leveraging discretionary trusts or reversionary trusts to preserve flexibility and shield legacy assets.

Shares listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) may qualify for 100% Business Property Relief after two years.

Investment bonds and BPR-eligible funds offer alternative routes to reduce exposure—and may also offer income growth.

FTSE 100 Index: 9,075.03, down 57.78 points (-0.63%) 

GBP/USD Exchange Rate: 1.1418, up 0.0002 (+0.02%) 

Brent Crude Oil: $71.05 per barrel, down $0.65 (-0.91%) 

This brief is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a qualified adviser before making any investment decisions.

Looking for a second opinion on your wealth strategy? 

Weekly Market Brief: 26th July – 1st August 2025

UK Property Prices See Largest Drop in 20 Years

UK house prices fell 3.7% year-on-year in June, the sharpest annual drop since 2005, according to Rightmove via 

. Prices are now 6.4% below their 2022 peak, as high mortgage rates and tighter affordability continue to weigh on buyer sentiment.

Selective Opportunities in Prime Markets: 

HNWs may find value in areas where price corrections have overshot, particularly for long-term holds.

Speculation is rising over when the Bank of England will begin rate cuts. Lower borrowing costs could reawaken buyer interest and lift valuations.

In the interim, investors may favour income-generating property, REITs, and infrastructure plays with stable yields.

Supply Side Constraints Persist in the UK Economy

The UK continues to face deep-rooted supply-side issues, including labour shortages, weak productivity and underinvestment, via 

. According to the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), via 

, the UK’s potential growth rate has fallen to just 1.25% per year.

Automation, AI, and infrastructure modernisation could see strong capital inflows.

Given structural weakness, investors may prefer resilient sectors like utilities, healthcare, and dividend-paying equities.

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