All our considerable efforts to meet client investment objectives and expectations can be negated if tax planning is ignored. There are many opportunities to plan effectively and use the existing rules to the benefit of our clients.

In addition to various structures to defer Capital Gains Tax all work is undertaken with consideration to the tax consequence. For example, the timing of withdrawals, the use of annual allowances and forward planning can make a significant difference to any tax payable and it is with this in mind that we work closely with our clients' tax, accounting and legal advisers, recognising the inextricable link.

One issue that remains for many clients however is the potential Inheritance Tax that may be charged to their estate on death (particularly following a business sale). This is an area where there is significant scope to reduce the potential liability. Our approach to this particular point is typically to provide a menu of services which allows the client to plan as far as they wish to ultimately negate the full potential liability. However, it is often the case that for good personal reasons clients may wish to reduce rather than completely negate the liability.