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Don't Settle for the Default: Why Your Master Trust Pension Requires an Urgent Review
Recent IORP II regulations have swept tens of thousands of stand-alone pension schemes into a concentrated group of default Master Trusts. While transitioning to a Master Trust may have been a regulatory necessity for compliance, remaining in an unoptimised, default arrangement is a choice—and it is one that could be severely impacting your financial future. Many individuals and employers simply accept default master trust arrangements without a second thought, leading to mis
Garfield Spollen
Apr 173 min read


Taking Control of Your Retirement: Why You Should Consider a Buy Out Bond
Throughout your career, it is completely normal to accumulate scattered pension benefits as you move between different jobs. However, managing these past benefits has become increasingly urgent. With the introduction of the IORP II directive, single-member pension schemes are now facing prohibitively expensive compliance and administrative burdens, causing many former employer pension schemes to wind up. If you fail to make a proactive decision regarding your old pensions, yo
Garfield Spollen
Mar 192 min read


Navigating the IORP II Pension Changes: Why You Need a Financial Advisor in Your Corner
22 April 2026 Deadline If you hold a One Member Arrangement, such as an Executive Pension or a Small Self-Administered Scheme established before April 2021, the rules governing your retirement savings are undergoing a massive transformation. The European IORP II directive is bringing strict new regulations, and navigating these changes requires proactive, strategic decision-making. Managing your finances effectively is crucial for long-term security, and working with financia
Garfield Spollen
Mar 63 min read


Why Hiring a Personal Financial Advisor Benefits Can Transform Your Finances
Managing your finances effectively is crucial for long-term security and peace of mind. Yet, many of us struggle to navigate the complexities of budgeting, investing, and planning for the future. This is where hiring a personal financial advisor benefits you in ways that can truly transform your financial life. By working with a professional, you gain clarity, confidence, and a tailored strategy that evolves with your needs. Understanding the Personal Financial Advisor Benefi
Garfield Spollen
Jan 194 min read


Changing Jobs? Taking Control of Your Pension Pots
Each time you leave an employer where you had a workplace pension, you have to decide what to do with the funds you've built up.
Garfield Spollen
Jan 192 min read
Should I Rely on Auto-Enrolment or Continue Contributing to My Employer’s Private Pension Scheme?
While AE is designed to help workers who aren’t currently saving, it is not the most efficient retirement solution for those already eligible to join a company pension. In fact, employees paying tax at 40% can be significantly better off by staying in, or opting into, a traditional employer pension scheme instead of relying on Auto-Enrolment. Here’s why. 1. Higher Tax Relief: 40% vs Government Top-Up One of the biggest advantages of private pensions is tax relief on employe
Garfield Spollen
Dec 5, 20253 min read
Why EIIS Still Makes Sense — and Why a Fund Approach Is Often Smarter
The Irish government recently introduced a number of changes to EIIS. While at first glance some adjustments may appear less favourable, the revamped scheme still presents a compelling opportunity — especially if you invest via a professionally managed EIIS fund rather than directly into individual companies. What’s Changed in EIIS From 1 January 2024, EIIS moved from a flat-rate tax relief to a tiered relief structure , with relief rates now depending on the type of company
Garfield Spollen
Dec 5, 20254 min read


Securing Your Business Legacy Through Business Estate Planning Ireland
Estate planning is not just about wills or inheritance. It is a comprehensive strategy that addresses how your business will be managed, transferred, or sold.
This planning safeguards your legacy and minimises potential disputes or financial losses.
Garfield Spollen
May 2, 20254 min read
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