Showing 21 - 30 of 33
A basic guide to planning financial independence
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 02/09/2012
» Following several requests from readers over the last few weeks, we are going to look at some simple ways to plan your retirement, or financial independence for those who say they will never retire.
Domicile, residence and probate
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 26/08/2012
» Readers are divided in their views on the difference between domicile and residence. Some seem to think they are interchangeable and do not realise the impact that not understanding the distinction may have when they die. Many people do not realise that probate will have a significant effect on the distribution of their assets after they pass away, but the reality is that the issues of residence, domicile and probate are all tied together when dealing with your estate.
The practical use of trusts in planning for the inevitable
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 12/08/2012
» Last week we looked at why many expats should consider trusts to assist them in several ways. Today we delve deeper into the practical use of trusts as efficient financial planning solutions.
Put your faith in trusts to protect your financial future
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 05/08/2012
» Today we will take a look at the features and advantages of trusts, one of the least understood and least appreciated forms of asset protection.
Will latest bank scandal hit expatriate pockets?
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 15/07/2012
» Late last month a new banking scandal was revealed, one that may have far wider implications to our banking system than we can yet imagine. Although the story has quieted down somewhat, it could be that we are just seeing the tip of the iceberg? How might you be affected as an expat?
Lifting the fog on financial options open to expats
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 08/07/2012
» As expats, we need to be financially self-reliant, yet we often tend to look the other way when it comes to planning our futures. Maybe we need a kick-start. For most of us, it is imperative to make arrangements for our investments because there will be little in the way of state provisions when we get older and wish to stop working.
Offshore bonds complex but rewarding
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 01/07/2012
» Last week we talked about offshore personal portfolio bonds (OPPBs) and how they assist with currency management. Since then a number of readers have enquired about the uses of OPPBs and how they may benefit from such an account. There is obviously a lot of confusion out there.
Currency management in baht takes a step forward
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 24/06/2012
» An exciting way has emerged for expats who hold international investments to manage their finances, using Thai baht as the currency of choice. Almost all expats are exposed to different currencies because of their residency status abroad. Many of us use multiple currencies because we travel internationally. We should be most concerned about the currencies that make up our income, assets and expenditures.
Your pension: the harsh realities
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 20/05/2012
» One of the most difficult things to predict is the amount of income you will need for your golden years. This is something you should discuss with your financial adviser so that he or she can make detailed calculations and come up with a projection for you to use as a target.
Breathing new life into neglected investments
Spectrum, Andrew Wood, Published on 22/04/2012
» Expatriates are often investors out of necessity but are rarely cared for in the way they would be back in their home countries. The vast majority of expats get the bug and become lifelong travellers once they have been living and working abroad for a few years, whereas others become expats upon retirement.