How will the U.S. Interest rates cut affect you?

The recent announcement from the US Federal Reserve as they made a significant cut to interest rates of 0.50% points marks the largest reduction in interest rates since 2020. Typically, the Federal Reserve adjusts rates by just 0.25 percentage points at a time, so this half-point cut is a substantial move designed to have a noticeable impact on the economy.

The cut brings the federal funds rate to a range between 4.5% and 4.75%, the lowest it has been in two years.

Their goal with this cut is to stimulate the US economy, encourage businesses to and consumers to borrow more money at lower rates. This should lead to more spending and in turn economic growth.

Why have interest rates been so high?

Interest rates in the US and globally have been at a record high over recent years due to a combination of pressures. COVID-19 caused economic disruptions and the supply chain issues that followed caused a surge in inflation in the US and globally. Consumer prices have been rising for goods like groceries, fuel and housing which has prompted the Federal Reserve to act.

They raised interest rates in several increments, hoping to cool down spending and borrowing, which in turn could help bring inflation under control. When borrowing costs increase, both consumers and businesses tend to spend less, slowing economic growth and reducing inflationary pressures. Over the past year, the federal funds rate had been raised to around 5%, one of the highest levels in decades.

This has had a substantial effect on the economy, the housing market has begun to cool due to higher mortgage rates and businesses pulling back on investments. Inflation has began to moderate as the Federal Reserve begins their balancing act to ensure inflation doesn’t reignite whilst avoiding a recession.

Why have they cut interest rates now?

While inflation has eased in recent months, there are concerns that the high interest rates were beginning to stifle growth too much. By making borrowing cheaper through this significant 0.50 percentage point cut, the Fed aims to boost both consumer spending and business investment. This recent cut should support economic growth in the US for 2025.

Lower interest rates can make it cheaper for businesses to expand, hire more employees, and invest in new technologies. For consumers, this can mean more affordable loans for things like homes, cars, and education. As borrowing costs decrease, individuals are more likely to take out loans, which in turn can drive up demand for goods and services, helping to boost the economy.

With reduced interest rates, consumers might feel more confident about making big-ticket purchases, such as homes or cars, knowing their monthly payments will be lower. In turn, this renewed confidence and spending can have a ripple effect, encouraging businesses to expand and invest more heavily, further stimulating the economy.

How the rate cuts affect the typical US family

This rate cut has several implications for US families, particularly when it comes to managing everyday expenses. One of the most immediate effects will be felt in mortgage rates. Families looking to buy a home or refinance their current mortgage may see lower interest rates, which can significantly reduce monthly payments. A 0.50% reduction in interest rates can translate to thousands of dollars saved over the life of a mortgage, making homeownership more affordable.

Those with credit card debt or personal loans may notice lower interest rates on their outstanding balances making it easier to manage repayments. Financing a new car or making large purchases will become more affordable as loans will be more accessible. This will allow families to have an increase in spending money which will be poured into the economy through purchases and days out.

How global markets are affected

Changes in U.S. monetary policy often ripple through global markets, and countries like the UK could be affected. For instance, the UK’s financial markets often move in tandem with the U.S., particularly in terms of bond yields and currency exchange rates. If U.S. interest rates decline, it can weaken the dollar, making other currencies like the British pound stronger in comparison. This can affect UK exports, making British goods more expensive for U.S. consumers.

US rates can also promote central banks such as, the Bank of England to consider their own policy adjustments.

The next announcement

the next major Federal Reserve decision is set for November 7th, just after the U.S. elections. The timing of this announcement has sparked debates about how political and economic factors will intersect. Many are questioning whether future rate cuts will continue or if the Fed will pause to reassess the state of inflation and economic growth post-election.

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Stay ahead with our curated list of this week’s top 10 financial news stories.

Gain exclusive insights into pressing topics such as Tony Wickenden’s take on advising pre-emptive action to shield clients from CGT. Also, get the scoop on Sesame Bankhall’s latest hire to lead their adviser network.

Read more below:



Tony Wickenden: Should you advise pre-emptive action to save clients from CGT?

Tony Wickenden discussed the potential impact of rising capital gains tax (CGT) following Budget warnings. He noted the government’s reluctance to increase income tax, National Insurance, or VAT, leading to speculation about CGT increases. Wickenden suggested that if clients are already planning disposals, they should consider completing them sooner. He highlighted concerns that higher CGT rates might prompt wealthy individuals to defer gains. He also mentioned potential mid-year changes and the importance of balancing tax considerations with investment decisions.

Sesame Bankhall hires new director to lead adviser network

Phoenix Group scraps plans to sell protection business

Phoenix Group cancelled plans to sell its SunLife protection business, citing uncertainty in the protection market. Instead, the company will focus on enhancing SunLife’s value, as it remains a key asset serving the UK’s over-50s market. Phoenix had acquired SunLife from AXA in 2016. The decision was announced in Phoenix’s 2024 interim results. CEO Andy Curran highlighted growth in the Workplace business and the expansion of the Group’s retirement offerings, including a fixed-term annuity launched by Standard Life.

Close Brothers sells asset-management business

Steven Cameron: Is it time? What flat-rate pensions tax relief would look like

Steven Cameron explored potential pension tax reforms ahead of the 30 October Budget, speculating that Chancellor Rachel Reeves might introduce a flat-rate tax relief system. Currently, tax relief is given at an individual’s marginal rate, benefiting higher-rate taxpayers. A move to a 30% flat rate would favour basic-rate taxpayers but reduce relief for higher earners. Employer contributions could also face changes, possibly affecting defined benefit schemes. Cameron urged advisers to discuss possible changes with clients and consider making extra pension contributions before the Budget.

Andy Bell: Where will Labour find £22bn?

Andy Bell discussed how Labour might address the UK’s £22bn fiscal deficit without raising VAT, income tax, or National Insurance. He suggested potential reforms to capital gains tax (CGT), pension tax relief, inheritance tax (IHT), and the introduction of a wealth tax. Aligning CGT with income tax rates and introducing a flat-rate pension tax relief could raise revenue but may face backlash. A wealth tax and IHT adjustments also carry challenges, including political risks and administrative complexity. Bell stressed the need for balanced, fair policy design.

Brooks Macdonald to acquire Norwich-based financial advice firm

Brooks Macdonald announced the acquisition of Norwich-based Lucas Fettes Financial Planning, subject to regulatory approval by early 2025. Lucas Fettes manages £890m in assets across 1,600 personal clients and £300m from corporate clients. The acquisition aims to enhance Brooks Macdonald’s financial planning capabilities and expand its presence in East Anglia. Lucas Fettes, one of Brooks’ top introducers since 1996, will integrate into Brooks Macdonald’s direct wealth business, aligning with the group’s strategy to focus on UK investment management and financial planning.

Octopus Investments launches IHT and estate planning helpdesk

Octopus Investments launched ‘Ask Octopus,’ a helpdesk offering technical support on inheritance tax (IHT) and estate planning for financial advisers. The service, accessible via their website, provides answers to advisers’ queries and allows direct meetings with experts. It covers IHT rules, estate planning, wills, and probate. Octopus aims to assist advisers, particularly those without technical team support. This launch comes as IHT receipts have surged, prompting calls for reform ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ 30 October Budget.

Skerritts buys Harrogate-based advice firm

Skerritts Group acquired Harrogate-based Ellis Bates Financial Advisers, adding over £1bn in assets under management and strengthening its presence in Northern England. The deal, backed by Sovereign Capital Partners, was set to complete in September 2024. Skerritts, aiming for national expansion, has made 11 acquisitions since Sovereign’s £55m investment in 2021. Skerritts CEO Paul Feeney praised the acquisition, while Ellis Bates’ managing director Michael Cope highlighted shared values and ambitions for growth within the partnership.

Advisers tweak processes in light of retirement income review

Following the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) thematic review of retirement income advice, most financial advisers adjusted their processes, according to Wesleyan. The FCA’s March 2024 review highlighted areas for improvement, including income withdrawal strategies and advice suitability. Wesleyan’s poll revealed that 91% of advisers familiar with the review reassessed their practices, with 66% already implementing changes. Common adjustments included advice file record-keeping and client screening. Over three-quarters of advisers agreed the review heightened the focus on providing better retirement advice.

The Treasury collected £3.5bn in inheritance tax receipts between April to August, latest figures from HMRC published this morning (20 September).

This is £300m higher than the same period last year.

Another record-breaking year for IHT receipts is being predicted and experts believe this upward trajectory will continue year on year and hit £9.7bn in 2028/29.

However, there are rumours that IHT will be increased next month when the new Labour government unveils its first Budget.

The current £325,000 nil rate band has been at that level since 2009.

The residential nil rate band was introduced on a phased basis between 2017 and 2020 and potentially gives an additional £175,000 nil rate band (making a total of £500,000) subject to certain rules.

Nucleus technical services director Andrew Tully, said: “The ever-increasing IHT tax take may give the government food for thought as we approach next month’s Budget.

“Changes could be made such as scrapping or updating the rules on agricultural land and business relief.

“Currently, a person can claim up to 100% relief on the inheritance of agricultural land if it is being actively farmed.

“This could be reduced, or certain limitations placed on the maximum value of the relief.

“There could be a tightening of qualifying criteria for business relief, perhaps relating to unlisted shares and AIM portfolios.

“Although that could be difficult to implement and may not tie in with the desire to increase investment in the UK.”

Shaun Moore, tax and financial planning expert at Quilter, is calling for the IHT system to be simplified to make it easier for people to gift during their lifetime.

He said: “The complexity of the current system often leads to confusion and inequities.

“A simpler system could help reduce the administrative burden for both taxpayers and HMRC, while also making it fairer.

“Similarly, increasing the gifting threshold would encourage earlier wealth transfer, reducing future IHT liabilities, and could boost consumer spending.”

The number of families being caught out by tax bills after death on gifts made in lifetime has been surging, according to figures from HMRC obtained recently by wealth management firm Evelyn Partners show.

Tax Partner at professional services and wealth management firm Evelyn, Laura Hayward, said: “The number of estates that paid IHT on gifts made less than seven years before death more than doubled from 590 in 2011/12 to 1,300 in 2020/21, according to the data.

“Meanwhile, the total sum of IHT paid on gifts also more than doubled from £101m in 2011/12 to £256m in 2020/21 – an increase of 153% in monetary terms and 119% in real terms.

“The data suggests the average tax charge payable by beneficiaries on lifetime gifts was £171,186 in 2011/12 and £196,923 in 2020/21.

“That suggests some very significant tax bills are being delivered to unprepared beneficiaries after their generous relative has died, and this might be another reason for those contemplating making big lifetime gifts to start the seven-year clock ticking sooner rather than later.

“Even if the gifter were to pass away within seven years, there is a chance the IHT bill could be reduced by taper relief.”