Articles
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JM Finn special report: India – a unique emerging market
Read our insight into this rapidly changing economy, based on a recent research trip to India.
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United Trust Bank Expands Charity Savings Range with New Limited Access Saver Account Paying 4.15% Gross/AER
United Trust Bank Expands Charity Savings Range with New Limited Access Saver Account Paying 4.15% Gross/AER The new account has been designed to provide charities with another option when managing cash reserves, sitting…
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UK politics: Volatility risk rises, but the equity story is nuanced
The resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer is not, in itself, a major shock to equity markets. The more important question is whether the next Labour leadership preserves fiscal credibility. Until that becomes…
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Market update: UK Prime Minister resigns
Less than two years after securing one of the Labour party’s largest parliamentary majorities, Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigned from his position this morning, a move that had been widely expected. A combination of…
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Why families and charities are aligning giving and investing
This article is designed to be thought leadership content, to offer big picture views and analysis of interesting issues and trends that matter to our clients (1) . It is not designed to be taken as the preferred view…
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Charities InFocus Issue 17 Spring 2026 - Ongoing support and guidance for charities in an evolving world
Welcome to the Spring 2026 edition of Charities InFocus. In this issue, we examine how the British Red Cross is helping philanthropists cut through uncertainty and maximise their impact. We also explore how thinking…
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Why every charity needs to review its savings strategy
By David Prosser Charities are under pressure. The Charities Aid Foundation warns the British public donated 10% less to good causes last year – around £1.4bn less than in 2024 – in the first such drop for five years…
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How to recruit charity trustees: A practical guide
Recruiting trustees is one of the most important tasks a charity undertakes. The board sets the tone, provides oversight, and ultimately holds responsibility for the organisation’s purpose and direction. Despite this…
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How Does Social Investment Work as a Borrowing Tool for Charities?
Social investment is opening new doors for charities, but borrowing brings real risks. Explore how loans, quasi-equity, covenants, reserves and cashflow pressures should be assessed before trustees commit to repayable…
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SpaceX on course for record-breaking IPO
The hype around a potential SpaceX flotation is building fast, and with good reason. Elon Musk’s aerospace group has become one of the most prized private assets in the world, and any listing would not only rank among…
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How to conduct an AI risk assessment
Charity Digital explains how charities can evaluate the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI) and put controls in place to mitigate them with an effective risk assessment... All digital tools come with an…
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Quilter Cheviot: Review for Charities – Issue 3 (2026)
We are pleased to share the latest edition of Review for Charities , offering practical insights and informed perspectives for trustees and charity leaders navigating an increasingly complex environment. In this issue…
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A trustees’ guide to AI ethics
Charity Digital explores what charity leaders need to know about the ethics of artificial intelligence and the right questions to ask when mapping its risks... Artificial intelligence (AI), like all digital tools…
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Corporate earnings wield ultimate influence on markets
Despite geopolitical events dominating headlines, corporate earnings remain the key driver of markets, writes Andrew Mann.
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Why employment tax is moving up the agenda for charities
For many charities, employment tax has traditionally been seen as something for payroll or finance teams to manage behind the scenes. That is changing. Rising staffing costs, more flexible ways of working and upcoming…
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Are you achieving cognitive diversity on your board?
from Laurence Gagen Partner, Head of Charities At a glance The goal isn’t a box ticking exercise around diversity, but rather diversity of thought that strengthens decision-making. Charity boards can drift toward similar…
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The Charity Audit and Risk Committee checklist
Audit and Risk Committees help their charity's function according to good governance, accounting, auditing and risk management standards. The audit committee should regularly assess its own effectiveness and the adequacy…
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FRS 102 for Charities and Not-for-profits
Our latest FRS 102 guidance provides a comprehensive review of the significant changes to FRS 102. We have highlighted areas which are most likely to impact the charity and not-for-profit sectors from 1 January 2026…
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We should review our governance – where do we start
Charity governance has been firmly in the spotlight in recent times. Financial pressures, restructures and, at times, serious failings have highlighted the strain boards are under. While that can feel unsettling, it also…
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Free insurance 'health check' for charities
As a member of Charity Intelligence, HWS is committed to supporting fellow members. Ensuring that a charity has the right insurance in place is essential, not only to protect the organisation itself, but also its…
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Market Perspectives May 2026
Welcome to our May edition of Market Perspectives, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In the following chapters we look at how the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz – and a…
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Employment Rights Act 2025: What Employers Need to Know
The Employment Rights Act 2025 represents the most significant overhaul of UK employment law in a generation. With changes rolling out across 2026 and 2027, employers will need to understand the new requirements, update…
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How charities can share office space and infrastructure
With budgets stretched and competition for funding growing, sharing office space and infrastructure is a way for charities to save money. It can help them to make better use of their resources and increase efficiency as…
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Earth Week: “Our Power, Our Planet” and investing
With Earth Day marked on 22 April under the theme of “Our Power, Our Planet”, we consider the relevance of key themes such as the energy transition for investors today.
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Charities InFocus - Issue 16 Autumn 2025
Navigating change and inspiring innovation
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Four considerations for Scottish charities in 2026
How Scottish charities can navigate OSCR’s new transparency rules, inflation and evolving investment practices.
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Market Perspectives April 2026
Welcome to our April edition of 'Market Perspectives', the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In the following chapters, we look at how the Middle East conflict might reshape long-term…
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How much should your charity hold in reserves? A practical guide for trustees
Managing and running a charity means you are always watching over finances and funding. You will know how much money you have, how much funding is coming your way, how much projects cost, future projects, and more…
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Fears over Al disruption are weighing on stock markets. Time for level heads and fundamental analysis
Is artificial intelligence really a threat to traditional industries, or merely misunderstood? Discover how a balanced perspective based on fundamental analysis can reveal opportunities and resilience amid the hype and…
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How war in the Middle East is reshaping UK interest rates
Two weeks on since our last commentary, our cash team share an update on the economic impact of the Middle East war following recent escalations. With the Bank of England poised to react and markets navigating…
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Turning out-of-favour office space into much-needed SEND provision for schoolchildren: CCLA’s sale of Braywick House
Councils expect to spend £14.8 billion on Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in 2025–26, creating significant budget deficits. To help, central government has proposed an extra £4 billion of support over…
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Rising inflation and a hawkish turn on interest rates - with consequences for treasury management
We look at how higher inflation and rising interest rates driven by events in the Middle East could impact treasury management.
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Safeguarding governance: do you have the information that you need?
In January 2026, the Charity Commission confirmed that it has issued Official Warnings to The Liverpool Diocesan Board of Finance and The Chelmsford Diocesan Board of Finance, having concluded that failures to handle…
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Troy UK Equity Income Strategy Newsletter No 15
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Responsible Investment Report No.19
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Special Paper No.13 – Private credit: canary in the coal mine?
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Investment Report No.87
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Annual Letter to Investors
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Learning the art of smaller profits
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Market update: Conflict in the Middle East
The weekend’s events and ongoing conflict in the Middle East have caused disruption and concern across financial markets and, more importantly, in the daily lives of those in the region, and our thoughts are with all…
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Charities don’t pay tax…right? Understanding when income becomes trading
Funding challenges are not new to charities, although their scale and complexity have undoubtedly intensified. Local authority contracts that fail to cover core costs, reductions in long‑term grant funding and a cooling…
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Latitude Global Fund Latest Factsheet
https://www.latitudeim.com/the-latitude-global-fund
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Latitude Horizon Fund Latest Factsheet
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When your charity data is good but you still feel bad
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Middle East tensions put markets back on alert
Investors have learned to live with geopolitical noise in recent years, often to the point of complacency, but the escalation of conflict in the Middle East has acted as a fresh stress test for markets that were arguably…
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Building resilient charities in a changing world
Turning challenges into opportunities Over the past decade, charities have faced austerity, a global pandemic, cost of living pressures, declining consumer spending, rising operational costs, and shifting government…
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Market update: Conflict in the Middle East (1)
The weekend’s events and ongoing conflict in the Middle East have caused disruption and concern across financial markets and, more importantly, in the daily lives of those in the region, and our thoughts are with all…
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Charity Fraud Report – A Five-Year Review
We're excited to announce the launch of the "Charity Fraud Report: A Five-Year Review," marking the fifth year of our collaboration with the Fraud Advisory Panel. This comprehensive report is a crucial resource in our…
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Cyber Liability Insurance - Key Cover
CYBER RISK - A Key Cover for All Charities Cyber risk is the threat charities face when using email, websites, cloud systems, online banking and digital records. Many incidents start with phishing, human error, weak…
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Welcome to the charity sector
Starting your first role in the charity sector is exciting, but can feel overwhelming. Whether you're in finance or a trustee position, you're entering a field shaped by purpose, regulation, and accountability. Our…
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Launch of charity investment policy best-practice framework
Over the past decade, the investment landscape for charities has changed profoundly. We’ve seen an expansion in the range and sophistication of available investments, rapid progress in sustainable and values‑aligned…
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JM Finn opens fifth office in Cheltenham
JM Finn now has five regional offices, with Cheltenham the latest to be added to the roster. Having leased and renovated an office in Darwin House in Rodney Road, the team of five have been operating from the office…
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UK Economy Outlook: brighter days ahead?
I spent February half term in the French Alps, smothered by a thick snow cloud for most of the week. In contrast perhaps, the clouds over the UK economy are beginning to thin, and for the first time in a while there…
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LGT Charity Team Factsheet - Q4 2025
Facts, figures and performance for LGT Charity Strategies as as 31/12/2025
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Good charity governance: Going beyond the tick box
By Arlene Clarke, Senior Risk and Assurance Manager, Sayer Vincent It’s unlikely that anyone in the charitable sector will have missed the recent governance issues at Oxfam. Indeed, it’s quite possible that you’ve…
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Charity Fraud Awareness
You may have seen some of our daily content for the recent Charity Fraud Awareness Week. In case you didn't catch each of those articles, please find our Charity Fraud insights attached consolidated into a single…
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W1M Fund Centre - WS Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund
The Waverton Funds are sub-funds of Waverton Investment Funds PLC, an umbrella fund. These Waverton Funds form a range of investment vehicles, including equity, fixed income and multi-asset funds. Please note that…
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W1M adds further senior firepower with new hires
Oliver Jones-Davies joins as a Portfolio Manager in the Charities team, where he will report to James Pike, Head of Charities. Oliver has worked in financial services for 30 years and joins from CCLA Investment…
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Global Outlook February 2026
In this video, Bill Dinning discusses market conditions for the first few weeks of 2026, highlighting sharp moves in sectors such as cryptocurrencies and precious metals. He highlights the growing political uncertainty…
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Buddenbrooks investing: Living off the dividends without hollowing out the house
Thomas Saville reveals why focusing on total-returns pays dividends
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Is Impact Investing the Right Strategy for Charities?
Charities are in an increasingly difficult position as the strain caused by a weak economy means demand for services while sustained higher interest rates and tighter credit conditions limit access to affordable funding…
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Charity trustees on Love Island
Why investment managers constantly change and what to do about it... If you’re a UK charity trustee, you may feel like the investment management world has suddenly turned into Love Island. Everyone is coupling up…
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Directors & Officers / Trustees Liability Insurance
D&O and Trustees Liability - a KEY COVER for charitable organisations. As a trustee or director of a charitable organisation, you make decisions every day that affect people, money, reputation, and outcomes. Even where…
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A fresh look at charity governance with the updated Charity Governance Code
Looking ahead into 2026, charity leaders may well have resolutions to strengthen the foundations of their charities through improved governance processes and behaviours. A great place to start would be the Charity…
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Q1 2026 - House Report - Loose Money, Hard Power - Central banks under pressure as the global order fractures
As we begin 2026, almost a year into President Trump’s second term, the once isolationist America First agenda has evolved into a form of unpredictable unilateralism with wide-reaching consequences. Over the past 12…
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Q4 2025- House Report - A Focus on Quality
As we move into the final quarter of the year, after a period in which markets have been dominated by the share prices of lower quality companies, in areas such as unprofitable technology and “meme” stocks, we believe…
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Market Perspectives February 2026
Welcome to the February edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look at the initial signs on economic growth, US interest…
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AI use cases for charities
As AI adoption accelerates, charities are asking for clearer guidance on how to put it into practice... Artificial intelligence (AI) is often talked about in sweeping terms – technology that will “transform” the way we…
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What are the Investment Options and Strategies Available to Charities?
With a wide range of investment options available to charities, the selection of appropriate instruments must be guided by the charity’s risk appetite, investment horizon, liquidity requirements, capital preservation…
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Q4 market review
After growing at an above trend pace over the previous two quarters, global economic activity seems to have decelerated in the last quarter of 2025, led by a slowdown in China. Nonetheless the global economy - and…
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Patience pays: why quality shares outperform in the long run
Quality shares’ performance has been hard to predict from one quarter to the next. But in the long run, their outperformance, of the broader market and of growth shares, has been significant. Find out why in our latest…
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CCLA launches first global benchmark on modern slavery
Our first global benchmark on modern slavery reveals that the 100 largest global listed companies (UK companies excluded) underperform the 100 largest UK companies benchmarked at the end of 2025.
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Outlook 2026 event: The interpretation game
Our flagship annual Outlook event took place in the remarkable St George ballroom at The Peninsula London. Over the course of a thought-provoking evening, our clients heard from Andy Haldane, former Chief Economist at…
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The Modern Philanthropist: Practitioner perspectives
Philanthropy is evolving. It is becoming more strategic, more impactful, and more deeply personal. At Barclays Private Bank, we recently brought together philanthropists, charity leaders, and advisers to launch The…
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HWS - New Member
Good Afternoon, Download HWS_Charity Intelligence_A4_V2_08012026.pdf HWS are delighted to have become a member of Charity Intelligence. Located in the City of London, HWS has a long history of partnering with charitable…
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Guide: SORP 2026 made simple
Charities have to prepare accounts in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) also known as the Charities SORP. The SORP provides guidance for charities on how to apply FRS102 The Financial Reporting…
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Investing in digital health
Digital health solutions are transforming global healthcare delivery by improving outcomes, access and efficacy. With new advances in technology, such as long-term health-data capture and artificial intelligence, digital…
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What could 2026 bring for investors?
JM Finn’s Head of Investment Office Jon Cunliffe gives a top-level view of what 2026 could have in store for markets and economies globally, before taking a more in-depth look at their stance on regions and sectors for…
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Q1 2026 Global Outlook: As goes AI...
Artificial intelligence is now the most important driver of growth in the world’s largest economy and is delivering remarkable results. According to our analysts, despite headwinds from a trade war dampening US consumer…
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The Diary of a Pessimistic Charity Investor
A short story on why optimisim pays.
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Charities and the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) is a significant piece of legislation targeted at tackling economic crime in the UK. The new failure to prevent fraud offence (section 199) and the senior…
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The Failure to Prevent Fraud offence several months on - key learnings so far for charities
The Failure to Prevent Fraud offence has been in force for several months now (the offence's "go-live" having finally arrived on 1 September 2025). See here for more details about the offence and the defence of having…
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Fraud audits: how to get started and practical tips for your charity
Fraud risks causing charities significant harm to their reputation and their finances. It can even create criminal liability. It is therefore good practice for charities to regularly carry out fraud audits to review the…
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Navigating the evolving landscape of fraud - what charities need to know
Fraud remains one of the most pressing challenges for businesses in the UK, and charities are no exception. According to the BDO's 2024 Charity Fraud Report, 42% of charities reported fraud or attempted fraud in 2024…
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FTSE 250 vs FTSE 100: A reversal of the usual order
Since the last Budget, an unusual divergence has emerged in UK equity markets. Historically, materially lower short‑term interest rates have tended to favour the FTSE 250 over the FTSE 100. A move lower of around 140…
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Investment Perspectives 2026 Outlook: Searching for value amid the euphoria: Can the wave of optimism continue?
Key takeaways Most major asset classes performed well in 2025, despite repeated shocks. As we approach 2026, investor concerns have grown about elevated valuations, credit quality and sovereign debt levels. Unlike the…
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AI: Bubble or bottleneck?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) itself is not a bubble; rather, the current market exuberance is concentrated around a hardware bottleneck in its compute architecture. Carl Vine, Co-Head of Asia Pacific Equities, takes a…
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Market Perspectives October 2025 (1)
Welcome to the October edition of Market Perspectives, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, and ahead of November’s Outlook 2026, we look back at 2025 and…
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UK Budget: At a glance
After months of speculation, the UK government has finally unveiled its tax and spending plans for the year ahead. As many had expected, UK wealth holders are facing higher taxes – with the country’s tax burden to reach…
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Material E, S and G factors in 2026
This article is designed to be thought leadership content, to offer big picture views and analysis of interesting issues and trends that matter to our clients 1 . It is not designed to be taken as preferred view from…
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How are Modern Philanthropists making a difference?
Philanthropy is one of the most meaningful societal contributions any of us can make in our lifetime. Whether through financial gifts, time, expertise or social capital, each of us has the opportunity to help causes…
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Private Markets Annual Report 2025
Building on the themes of our first report in 2024, this year’s edition delves deeper into the behaviours, motivations and attitudes of private investors when it comes to private markets – and how the investment industry…
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AI Outlook 2026
Welcome to our special edition AI Outlook 2026, which looks beyond the headlines to the inner workings of artificial intelligence, to understand where the technology is headed in 2026 – and the potential implications for…
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Outlook 2026
Welcome to our “Outlook 2026”, the investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF. In the chapters below, we look at the result of revamped trading relationships and…
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📢 Good news for charities in England and Wales!
The publication of the new SORP marks a significant moment for the charity sector, one that brings the potential to simplify reporting, improve transparency, and strengthen confidence in financial information. At Sayer…
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💡 Why does generosity rise at Christmas — and how can charities harness that?
Our latest article dives into: • The deep roots of charity and giving through history • Key motivations behind why people donate more in the festive season • Practical ways charities can turn that seasonal goodwill into…
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Are you ready for the new “charitable-purpose soft opt-in” rule?
🔔 Attention Charities – Are you ready for the new “charitable-purpose soft opt-in” rule? From January 2026, new rules will allow charities to send electronic direct marketing about their charitable purposes without the…
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How to use AI for the common good
Using AI can be hugely beneficial to charities. It can save time, money and even help with service delivery. But it comes with risks. Here’s how to use AI for the common good. Artificial intelligence (AI) has enormous…
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Charity legacies round-up – legal updates and what’s on the horizon
How can you make use of new powers in the Charities Act 2022 to unlock restrictions? Should you give an indemnity when asked for one? And what’s on the horizon for legacy fundraising? We recently hosted our annual…
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Income Matters No.9
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Investment Report No.86
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Global Outlook - November 2025
n this video, Bill Dinning, Chief Investment Officer, reviews the strength of global equity markets, driven by solid Q3 earnings growth across major regions. He highlights the dominance of the Magnificent Seven in US…
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W1M Investment Forum 2025
The W1M Investment Forum, held at BAFTA last week, had a fascinating talk from veteran war correspondent and Sunday Times writer, Christina Lamb, with an illuminating global economic and market context from W1M’s Chief…
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W1M Fund Managers discuss Capital Cycle Strategy with Value Investor Insight
W1M’s Christopher Garsten , Charles Glasse and Charles Walker explain the bottom up approach that points them to out-of favor European ideas, why the market is slow to come around to what they find interesting, the risks…
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Autumn Budget 2025: What it means for charities
The Chancellor's autumn statement arrives at a critical moment for the voluntary sector. Demand for support is rising, fundraising conditions remain challenging, and policy decisions made this week will shape the…
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Conflicts of interest: what are they and how can a charity manage them?
Conflicts of interest are a key priority for the Charity Commission. Conflicts of interest can affect charities of all shapes and sizes. They can make it difficult for a conflicted trustee to act in their charity’s best…
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The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 – where are we now?
What further changes can be expected following ECCTA 2023 implementation? The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (the Act ) received royal assent in October 2023 and promised a raft of new provisions…
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Unlocking opportunity: What the Public Procurement Act 2023 means for charities and social value
Embedding social value at the heart of public service delivery. The Public Procurement Act 2023 – amplifying impact and unlocking funding for VCSEs? The Public Procurement Act 2023 , which came into force on 24 February…
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Inflation plus: no free lunch The challenge of achieving inflation-beating returns
Key takeaways: • There is no risk-free way to consistently beat inflation but, now real yields on inflation-linked government bonds are positive in most developed markets, investors with a defined horizon have a better…
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Update on Martyn’s Law for charities & churches
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law, is a new Protect Duty legislation to strengthen security measures in public places and events. For the not-for-profit sector, this will be most…
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Gold’s new role: from safe haven to strategic asset
Gold used to be viewed as the financial-market equivalent of hugging a teddy bear— reassuring in a crisis, but not much use for making money. It doesn’t pay interest, didn’t always rise when markets fell, and for years…
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Markets in Focus: Autumn 2025
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The ongoing impact of US policy on global markets
Global equity markets enjoyed a strong quarter, reaching fresh highs despite continued uncertainty around US trade policy. Corporate earnings proved resilient, economic data beat expectations, and long-term growth themes…
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Regional diversification can offset the concentration risk offered by the US
Headlines warning about “stretched” valuations and “bubble‑like” price action—especially in US technology—naturally make investors nervous. High valuations, however, are not a timing tool for getting out of markets. They…
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Opportunities and risks of AI in the charity sector
The implications of artificial intelligence (AI) for all aspects of society are huge, and the charity sector will not escape. However, while there are considerable fears about ethics and job replacement, AI also presents…
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Strategic investment: Rethinking long-term charity portfolios
For institutional charities such as foundations and endowments, investment strategy is not just about navigating short-term market movements. It is about building portfolios that preserve and grow capital in real terms…
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Responsible Investment Report No.18
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Troy UK Equity Income Strategy Newsletter No 14
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Investing for the first time - Guide
When investing for a financial return, trustees have to comply with certain legal requirements as covered by the Charity Commission’s guidance on investment matters, CC14. In simple terms it recognises that charities…
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Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund - Q3 webinar
The session was hosted by Ian Enslin, who provided an update on Q3 2025.
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Market Perspectives October 2025
The Outlook for Interest Rates
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Why own Nvidia when you can buy picks and shovels?
Everyone seems to be talking about “Artificial Intelligence” (AI) as the next industrial revolution which will impact all sectors. Nvidia has been the standout performer with its technological lead in designing AI chips…
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Gift Aid: more hassle than it’s worth?
By Ross Palmer, Tax Director, Sayer Vincent Since its early beginnings in 1990 and following its expansion in scope in 2000, Gift Aid has raised tens of billions of additional funds for charities across the UK making a…
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FJ in conversion with Paul Croney
Interview with Paul Croney
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Quilter Cheviot: Review for Charities – issue 2
We are excited to share the latest edition of Review for Charities . This bumper issue is packed with expert insights for trustees, charity professionals, and anyone passionate about the sector. Inside this edition…
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Property & Sustainability - The Growing Importance of ESG
With the built environment contributing up to 40% of global Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG), the real estate industry has a duty to take practical steps to decarbonise and, in the process, future-proof and maintain the…
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ESG Overview 2025
Simon Martindale, Fund Director of The Property Income Trust (PITCH), gives an ESG overview of the Fund.
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Treasury Management for Charities
Charities in the UK face mounting financial pressures: funding gaps, rising costs, volatile donation flows, and growing demand for services. According to a recent Charity Commission analysis, two in five charities…
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CPS and SFO update guidance on corporate prosecutions
Charities could face prosecution under new offences for failure to prevent fraud and for fraud committed by senior managers. The Crown Prosecution Service and Serious Fraud Office have released joint updated guidance…
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September Market Perspectives
Welcome to the September edition of Market Perspectives, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look at how uncertainty over US trade policy and the…
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How UK charities can benefit from cross-sector collaboration
By Emma Wilder We know and we understand the constant challenge charities face in securing more funding, more resources, and more support. With challenges surrounding finding the right trustees, boosting your volunteer…
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Why financial governance must matter to all trustees
At the heart of being a charity trustee is passion, a belief in the cause and a commitment to making a difference, but passion alone isn’t enough. Effective trusteeship also requires close attention to financial…
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Looking through the Overton Window
Understanding when to take risk with charity investments.
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2025 Q2 Commentary: The Fading Smile
In this article, we explore the implications of a weakening US dollar for globally diversified portfolios, questioning the continued reliability of the “dollar smile” as a source of downside protection. We also examine…
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2025 Q1 Commentary: Introducing the ARC Managed Platform Solution Indices
We're pleased to announce the launch of the ARC Managed Platform Solutions (MPS) Indices - a significant milestone in our mission to improve transparency and rigour in investment performance analysis. MPS solutions have…
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2024 Q4 Commentary: Evolving Perceptions
In this article, we explore the implications of increasing globalisation and market concentration for discretionary fund managers (DFMs), questioning the continued effectiveness of geographic allocation as a tool for…
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How does agentic AI work for charities?
Charity Digital explores how charities can use a gentic AI to boost their supporter experience, volunteer management, and more... Much of the talk in the charity sector around artificial intelligence (AI) has centred…
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Multi-Asset Strategy Insights – Dynamic Asset Allocation
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Investment Report No.85
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Far From the Finishing Post – Sebastian Lyon and Charlotte Yonge (Troy)
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Responsible Investment Report No.17
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Half Year Letter to Investors
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Too little, too late: why mergers shouldn’t wait for crisis
Mergers between charities are being talked about more often, but the conversation still tends to centre on financial distress. That perspective can be limiting. When approached at the right time and for the right…
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3 cyber threats facing charities today
Charities are targeted by cyber attacks just like businesses. In fact, 40% of businesses and 30% of charities reported having experienced a breach or attack in the last 12 months (Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025…
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Schools Briefing – ISBA 2025
Welcome to the ISBA Conference edition of our Schools Briefing for independent schools, where we provide updates and insights on accounting, tax, reporting and governance for school bursars and Governors.
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Professional Institutes and Membership Bodies Briefing – Spring 2025
We are delighted to share the Spring 2025 edition of our Professional Institutes and Membership Bodies (PIMBs) briefing.
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International and Fundraising Charities Briefing – Spring 2025
Welcome to the latest edition of our International and Fundraising Charities Briefing, where we provide updates and insights on accounting, tax, reporting and governance for international and fundraising charities.
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Staying Compliant: How Outsourced Accounting Services Simplify Regulatory Changes
Keeping up with evolving regulations is a challenge for businesses of all sizes. Frequent changes in tax laws, financial reporting standards, and data protection rules can create compliance headaches. Outsourced…
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Social Purpose eNews
This edition of our Social Purpose eNews covers the following topics: Charity Awards 2025 Charities SORP Charity Commission budget to rise by over 25% Public Trust in Charities 2025 The increased impact of the…
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Managing digital and AI risks in your charity
As digital tools and AI become increasingly embedded in the charity sector, understanding and managing the risks they bring is more important than ever. We explore Principle 7 of the Charity Digital Code of Practice…
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A rate cut delivered - where are short term yields now?
We got the expected rate cut yesterday (8 th August), at the second time of asking but the closeness of the vote and Bailey's subsequent comments saw it interpreted has a hawkish cut. The committee was split, four to…
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Yoke's summer charity quiz
Are you entertained or engaged by your charity's investments? Here is a little quiz that answers that question.
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Global Outlook Video - July 2025
In this video, Bill Dinning, Chief Investment Officer at W1M, discusses the upcoming 9th July deadline for US tariffs proposed by President Trump, suggesting a likely delay but warning of potential inflation and weaker…
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Bears sound smart, but optimism pays
We had the fortune of sitting on a market outlook panel recently, which provided a good opportunity to review the first half of 2025, as well as take a view on the coming six months and beyond. Unsurprisingly, the…
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WS Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund Update for Q2 2025
Join Ian Enslin, for our latest Charity Growth & Income Fund Update for Q2 2025.
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Case study: Strategy day leads to key appointment
Background The European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) was established in 2000 to advance equine internal medicine in Europe and increase the competency of those who practice in this field. In 2010 it became…
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Q3 2025 - House Report - Dollar Dynamics
With the US economy, markets, and listed companies at the centre of global dynamics, we explore the key themes affecting investors today. This edition of the Sarasin House Report centres on the enduring global impact of…
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Property Market Update
Simon Martindale, Fund Director of The Property Income Trust (PITCH), gives an overview of the property market.
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Take a break – and make a big leap forward
By Sean Tully I wouldn’t usually follow a group of strangers into an underground car park. On this occasion, my hesitancy was less about the company I was in, than about the direction we were heading. I’d joined a Walk…
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Passing on the essence: research findings on succession in small charities
Laura Treneer writes: One of the best things about going to the ACEVO conference is having time to talk to charity leaders like Sandra Hastings, Chief Executive of Silverline Memories. Sandra’s Masters research looked at…
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Top tips for charity partnerships and mergers – 10 key takeaways
By Laura Treneer We know that Jesus said people would know that we’re followers “if we love one another”, but what does it look like, as Christian charities and churches, to go beyond communication, cooperation…
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Accelerating innovation together – The purpose and vision of the Stephen Lloyd Awards
In 2015, a small group of people set out on a journey driven by passion and a shared vision, paying tribute to a man who inspired many, to help forward-thinking innovators move forward. This marked the beginning of the…
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Wrigleys' 34th Annual Charity Governance Seminar
Thursday 16th October, 2025 | 09:00 - 16:30 Cloth Hall Court, Quebec Street, Leeds LS1 2HA This is a paid for event We invite senior leaders and trustees from across the charity sector to join us in Leeds for our 34th…
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Wrigleys' Employment Brunch Briefing
Wrigleys' Employment Brunch Briefing Topic to be confirmed Tuesday 7th October, 2025 | 10:00 - 11:15 This event will be hosted virtually This event is free to attend
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Civil Society Covenant
The Civil Society Covenant was published on 17 July 2025. The Civil Society Covenant was officially launched by Lisa Nandy MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on 17 July 2025, the result of various…
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Data (Use and Access) Act 2025: an update to data protection law - what charities need to know
In this article we assess the data protection changes contained within the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and what these means for charities. The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 received Royal Assent on 19 June, making…
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Practical advice for charities on contract management
Exploring how charities can exploit opportunities, and manage risk, through good contract management – the practical over the technical. Whilst we are well versed in advising charities on a plethora of technical…
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Understanding the law on unfair contract terms: A guide for charities
“It’s an unfair cop!” – exploring the world of unfair contract terms for charities. In the world of charity work, contracts are an essential part of daily operations. Whether they’re entering into agreements with…
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Demystifying contractual terms for charities: Limitation and exclusion of liability
Exploring the limitation and exclusion of liability in charity contracts. Background: Limitation and exclusion of liability Clearly, one of the most important questions for any charity entering into a contract is how it…
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Has your charity done all it can to prepare for the mandatory requirements to verify trustee identity?
One significant outcome of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) is the introduction of mandatory ID verification for company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and individuals…
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Celebrating 3 Years of the CAF ESG Funds
June marks the 3-year anniversary of the IFSL CAF ESG Fund range, a milestone for a project that was five years in the making. Born out of a strong partnership between LGT and CAF, the trio of funds has grown…
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Don’t let apathy cost you money
💸 Don't Let Apathy Drain Your Charity's Potential Learn How to Make Your Cash Reserves Work Harder for Your Cause💸
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New UTB Base Rate Tracking Easy Access Account for Businesses and Charities Pays 4.05% Gross* Interest with 6-Month Bonus
Charities Get 4.05% Without Tying Up Funds New! 4.05% Easy Access Savings 💰 Make your funds work!
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Not just an ordinary cyber attack but an M&S cyber attack!
Marks & Spencer (M&S), known for its high-quality food, clothing and home products, is facing further disruption and ongoing online frustrations in the wake of the recent M&S cyber attack, attributed to the ransomware…
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Updated Injury to Feelings Awards in Discrimination Claims
If an employee is successful in their discrimination claim, an Employment Tribunal has the ability to make an award for compensation for injury to feelings. Injury to feeling awards are distinct from financial…
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Neurodiversity in the Workplace: Why Inclusion Matters
Understanding Neurodiversity Neurodiversity describes the natural variation in how people experience, interpret, and engage with their environment. It recognises that no two minds are the same, and that’s something to be…
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Financial leadership: What does it take to lead well today?
Leadership is changing. Across the charity and social purpose sector, leaders are being asked to do more with less, navigate complexity with clarity, and bring people with them through uncertainty. I’ve been thinking…
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Five steps towards a charity merger
By Mary Wessel, Charity Digital A successful merger can give charities a more secure future, allowing them to save costs and deliver great services. But it’s a big decision that needs careful consideration and a lot of…
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Insuring a more sustainable future
This article is designed to be thought leadership content, to offer big picture views and analysis of interesting issues and trends that matter to our clients 1 . It is not designed to be taken as the preferred view from…
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In conversation with David Holdsworth, CEO of the Charity Commission for England and Wales
Recently, in support of Volunteers’ Week, Stone King had the pleasure of hosting CEO of the Charity Commission for England and Wales (“the Commission”), David Holdsworth, at The Goldsmith’s Centre in central London. The…
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Winning a loser’s game - are we at peak passive?
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CharitEpulse: (podcast) Government grants, global giving and governance
In this episode of CharitEpulse, the trio discuss: Are governance reviews worth doing? Are Deputy Chairs needed? Charitable giving by UK's wealthiest increased by £500 million, but questions arise about the relevance of…
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Employment considerations for merging charities
Charity sector press is full of news of mergers between charities. The government’s autumn budget placed extra burden on employment-related costs, including changes to national insurance, as well as the usual April…
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Can charities invest 100% in social or mission-aligned investments?
Today, many charities are asking whether they can put all of their assets into investments that deliver a social (or ‘mission-aligned’) impact. For some, the answer is a qualified yes. The recent Butler-Sloss case [1] is…
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Trustee recruitment: time to review your policies
The Charity Commission has updated its guidance ‘ Finding and appointing new trustees (CC30) ’. The guidance has been updated to reflect good practice in trustee recruitment and to ensure compliance with legal…
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Child sponsorship programmes: check you are compliant
The Fundraising Regulator (FR) has published new guidance on child sponsorship following complaints about the fundraising model. The guidance is relevant to charities that ask donors to sponsor a child by making a…
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Report: Peace of mind in a dangerous world
We know that geopolitical risks, and the great uncertainty that can stem from them, are one of the biggest financial concerns that keep our clients awake at night. Earlier in June we published an update to our report…
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Could an allocation to Real Estate help Charities & Endowments adapt to the challenges & volatility in today’s investment market?
Following two years of poor capital performance for real estate, impacted by the sharp rise in interest rates in Q4 2022 and increased competition from other asset classes (notably cash & gilts), the market has now…
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Near Zero
In the film, Oppenheimer, the scientists discuss the possibility that the Trinity atomic test could destroy the world. They conclude that the chances are “near zero.” “Zero would be nice,” responds the alarmed General…
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Multi-Asset Fund Range - May 2025 Update
In this video, Matthew Parkinson , Fund Manager in the Multi-Asset team recaps May’s performance across the W1M Multi-Asset Funds. Risk assets rallied strongly, driving gains of 1.6% to 3.8% across the range, first…
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Mid-Year Outlook 2025
Welcome to our 'Mid-Year Outlook 2025', the investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF at the bottom of the page. After a tumultuous start of the year, it’s…
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London & Capital and Waverton Investment Management unite as W1M as the firm pursues ambitious growth beyond £21 billion AUM milestone
Following the merger of London & Capital (“L&C”) and Waverton Investment Management (“Waverton”) in July 2024, the company announces today that it will be consolidating its brands under a new name, W1M.
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W1M - Global Outlook Video - May 2025
*This video was recorded at 10am BST, Thursday 22 May 2025 In this video, William Dinning, Chief Investment Officer at Waverton, provides an update on the evolving U.S. policy landscape and its implications for global…
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London & Capital and Waverton Investment Management officially combine as W1M
London, 2 June 2025 -- London & Capital (“L&C”) and Waverton Investment Management (“Waverton”) officially become W1M today. This follows the announcement in March that the two brands would consolidate under this new…
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CCLA's first global modern slavery benchmark exposes corporate reliance on policy over practice
CCLA has launched its first global modern slavery benchmark pilot to evaluate how global companies combat modern slavery in their operations and supply chains. The pilot benchmark assesses the efforts of the 100 largest…
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Charity Investment Governance Principles Series
Rachel Titchen and Gail Cunningham sit down to explore and consider the Charity Investment Governance Principles (CIGP) in bitesize videos to help give your Board the confidence in all their investment governance…
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The case for active stewardship in a shifting landscape
As economic, environmental and geopolitical shocks continue to test global markets, the capability of companies to withstand disruption and adapt to change has never been more important. For long-term investors, building…
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Case study: Room for future improvement found amid the impeccable
Background Milestones Trust supports adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs to live their best lives. The Chair of Trustees is Don Nordberg, an Associate Professor in Corporate Governance, so, as you…
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LGT - Is your charity at a financial tipping point?
The UK charity sector contains a very broad variety of charities, from small voluntary community groups to large national bodies with thousands of volunteers and employees. Some of those smaller charities can sometimes…
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Electing Charity Trustees: A Cautionary Tale
A recent High Court case provides an important reminder to all charities to follow their constitutional rules when holding elections. Charity trustees should ensure their charity’s constitution is up-to-date and reflects…
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Financial sanctions guidance for charities
Receiving overseas donations? Working internationally? OFSI guidance for charities relating to their compliance with financial sanctions regimes. We have recently advised one of our charity clients in relation to the…
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A civil society covenant – here we go again?
Reflections from our recent Charity Leadership Forums. The new Civil Society Covenant in its final form is anticipated any day now. Those who have worked in the third sector for many years may remember the Compact…
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Spring Seminars 2025 - TEARING UP THE RULEBOOK
Today, the principles of free trade and market competition face profound challenges from shifting geopolitical alliances and economic fragmentation. Are we witnessing the emergence of a new global order, or merely a…
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Annual Stewardship Report (1)
We believe that investment has the power to grow and protect money in a way that benefits society. Furthermore, because wealth creation at society's expense is likely to be ephemeral, sustainable companies make better…
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Q2 2025 House Report - SECURITY: A NEW THEME SHAPING OUR INVESTMENT APPROACH
Q1 2025 began strongly but turned volatile as markets reacted to President Trump’s shift toward global tariffs, formalised on 'Liberation Day', 2nd April. This edition of the Sarasin House Report explores the global and…
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Charities, trading subsidiaries and financial distress - what do you need to know?
What are the implications of insolvency in a trading subsidiary for a parent charity, and how can trading subsidiaries be impacted if their parent charity experiences financial distress? Key features of a charity's…
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Can the UK reach a trade deal with the EU?
Can the UK reach a trade deal with the EU?
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Far From the Finishing Post – Seth Brennan (Lincoln Peak Capital)
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Investment Report No.84
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Responsible Investment Report No.16
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Troy UK Equity Income – Protect & Grow No.13 (1)
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Testing US exceptionalism? What markets have learned from Trump’s first 100 days
Considered an informal milestone, the first 100 days of a sitting US president have been closely watched – and scrutinised – since Franklin D. Roosevelt took office in 1933. Top of the then-newly inaugurated president’s…
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Offshore ambitions: China’s outsized role in decarbonising the world
In the Chinese zodiac, the snake is often seen as a symbol of transformation. As the Year of the Snake gets underway, and we move deeper into the so-called ‘Asian Century’, China continues to evolve as an increasingly…
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Diversity, equity and inclusion: Opportunities despite the backlash
Pushback against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has been simmering since 2023, culminating recently with the actions of the Trump administration in the US. We believe that DEI does not hurt…
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Private markets: Going mainstream
Long the preserve of institutional investors, new fund structures have opened up the world of private markets to a far broader range of investors. Is now the time for all investors to explore the benefits this asset…
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Global Market Review – April 2025
Volatility and uncertainty continued to impact markets during April, as US trade policy, notably the fallout from President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff announcements and their subsequent 90-day pause broadly impacted…
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Global Market Review – March 2025
Worries that plagued US equity markets in February spread to other areas throughout March, as concerns intensified over the potential impact that President Trump’s reciprocal trade tariffs might have on the global growth…
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Global Market Review – February 2025
Amid a backdrop of weakening US economic sentiment, bond yields fell, and US equity markets sold off in February, driving global equities lower and reversing almost half of the gains seen in the previous month. A…
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100 days of Trump’s second presidency
100 days of Trump’s second presidency
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Charity Investment Service Award
JM Finn wins Best Charity Investment Service at 2025 City of London Wealth Management Awards
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May market update - volatility resulting from US tariffs
May market update
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JM Finn - Portfolio Management for Charities
Download Charities Brochure.pdf
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Prospects - The JM Finn Quarterly Periodical - Spring 2025
Download PROSPECTS_SPRING_2025_FINAL.pdf
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Bean counters, maybe… but we make every bean count
The term ‘bean counter’ has followed Accountants around for years, and we like to think that most of us can take it in good humour! We assume it’s a tongue-in-cheek nod to our focus on the numbers, but, if you look it up…
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Restricted Funds: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Understanding restricted funds and endowments for charities Most donations to charities bequeathed in a will are made without specific conditions regarding their use, meaning that the funds can be used by the charity in…
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Unlock your charity’s financial potential
With the new financial year now under way, it's time to ensure your charity's investments are working as hard as your mission. While money market funds and fixed deposits may be the path of least resistance, are they…
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Financial oversight for UK charities
Transparency is vital for charities when it comes to having, and also providing, financial data and information. Vital as it is the one area that helps to form trust and strong relationships with your donors, trustees…
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What do trustees do when no one knows.
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Market Perspectives April 2025 (1)
Welcome to the April edition of Market Perspectives, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look at how a tougher and more transactional US trade policy might…
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How to succeed as a small charity trustee
Charity Digital explore the challenges facing trustees at small charities, the main skills the role requires, and the best ways for trustees to support small charities... Taking on a trustee role at a small charity can…
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WS Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund Q1 2025 (on demand webinar)
Watch James Pike provide an update for Q1 2025 on the Charity Growth & Income Fund.
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Market Perspectives April 2025
In the latest Market Perspectives, Algernon Percy provides an overview of global bond and equity markets in Q1 2025.
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What Liberation Day means for charities
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Case study: Fundraising towards Net Zero
By Laura Treneer The Church of England continues towards its 2030 net zero ambitions, not least through the national Demonstrator Church project. Every diocese has the opportunity to nominate a church for national…
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Case study: Investment in funding support yields 31x ROI
“Working with Clare has been hugely beneficial for Faith in Later Life. Her expertise, can-do approach, strategic thinking and ability to identify the right funders have helped us not only secure our ongoing work but…
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Quilter Cheviot: Review for Charities
We are excited to share the first ‘Review for Charities’ for 2025, featuring a wealth of insights and expertise from dedicated charity-sector specialists. In this edition… Can AI be the future for charity investment…
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Troy UK Equity Income – Protect & Grow No.13
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Investment Report No.83
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Leases - key points for charity tenants to consider
There are several considerations that charities must keep in mind when entering into a new lease as a tenant. Charity trustees and managers should ensure that all necessary steps have been taken before approving a lease…
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Global Outlook Video - March 2025
In this video, Bill Dinning, Chief Investment Officer at Waverton, discusses recent market volatility, with U.S. stocks experiencing declines. He explores the possibility of a recession and uncertainty surrounding…
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An Interview with Bob Brackett: Commodities, cycles & the future of energy
The this episode of Waverton’s Why Invest? podcast, host Luke Hyde-Smith is joined by Bob Brackett, Head of Americas Energy Transition and Managing Director Senior/Research Analyst at Bernstein, covering Global Metals &…
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Active vs Passive: Geese fly in gaggles, eagles fly alone
In October 2024, we hosted an in-person event where we discussed one of the most enduring debates in investment management: active vs passive investing. With markets becoming increasingly concentrated and passive…
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How small strategies can add up for charities in 2025
By Jonathan Orchard , Partner, Sayer Vincent It’s often easy to focus on negative headlines, and sometimes, it feels like there are more of these than there are positive ones. So, when I read the recent Charity Pulse…
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Market Perspectives March 2025
Welcome to the March edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look at how US trade tariffs and higher-than-anticipated…
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Supporting Employees Through Ramadan: A Guide for Employers
Ramadan will commence on the evening of Friday, 28 February, after the sighting of the crescent moon, and will continue for 30 days, concluding on Sunday, 30 March. Following this period, Muslims will celebrate Eid…
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Government Publishes Supporting Regulations On Neonatal Care Leave And Pay
The Government has recently published supporting regulations on Neonatal Care Leave and Pay, a significant development for working parents in the UK. The Regulations (subject to Parliamentary approval) are set to come…
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E-Visas: The Transition to Digital Immigration
As the UK moves towards a fully digital immigration system, the introduction of e-Visas marks a significant shift in how individuals prove their right to live, work, and travel in the country. While this transition…
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2023 Q2 Commentary: Simply the Best?
Whether browsing the financial press, reviewing proposals from discretionary investment managers or comparing fund factsheets, it seems that all managers are able to make the claim that their investment performance is…
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2023 Q3 Commentary: Net Zero: Are You an Ostrich or a Meerkat?
Nearly all countries have signed up to the UN Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty with the overarching goal of holding the increase in global average temperature to well below 2 degrees Celsius above…
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2023 Q4 Commentary: Celebrating 20 Years of Insights
Thanks to the willingness of participating discretionary investment managers to provide transparency on the performance of their private client and charity portfolios, the ARC Private Client Indices (‘PCI’) and the ARC…
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2024 Q1 Commentary: Facing Up to Reality
The persistent effect of inflation on investment returns is obscured by the money illusion of nominal returns. This article explores the recovery timelines following periods of market stress, revealing how inflation…
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2024 Q2 Commentary: Catching the Gold Bug
Our Q2 2024 commentary, "Catching the Gold Bug," explores gold's enduring allure and its strategic value in today's investment landscape. The analysis spans historical context, modern consumer trends, and the role of…
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2024 Q3 Commentary: Sound as a Pound
In this article, we examine the impact of FX hedging strategies on portfolio performance for investors, questioning the efficacy of systematic hedging in reducing downside risk. We also address the drawbacks of an…
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How to get free tech for your charity
Charity Digital explore how organisations can access free tech, discounted tech, free tech consultations, free tech resources, free tech through digital life hacks, and so much more… We live in precarious times. Economic…
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10 practical tips in setting up your charity’s reserves policy
As part of our Charity trustee insights hub , we have already established the importance of reserves and having a robust policy in place. The next step is setting your charity’s reserves policy. Here are 10 practical…
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Spring into action: rethink your cash assets today
With spring around the corner, is now a timely opportunity for UK charities to reassess their cash management strategies? Many charities hold significant cash reserves that could be generating far better returns. CCLA's…
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What could derail the Bank of England’s plans for 'gradual' rate cuts?
In an interview in the Financial Times in December, Bank of England (BoE) Governor Andrew Bailey offered a less guarded outlook on the trajectory of interest rates for the coming year. He acknowledged the uncertainty…
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Cash and treasury management - time to review your strategy?
Significant rises in global interest rates over the last year have had a large impact on investment and cash markets. In this insight, we highlight the importance of having a well-managed cash and treasury strategy that…
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Global Market Review – January 2025
Higher-than-expected corporate earnings revisions helped drive global equities to a 4.2% gain during January, which proved to be a strong month across major asset classes. Europe saw the strongest equity market returns…
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How to hone your grant fundraising strategy – 5 lessons from the funders
By Sean Tully Early in 2021, Action Planning helped a national charity to rethink its grants strategy. The client had benefitted from the support of a small number of some of the larger UK trusts and was of the…
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New Year, New Financial Goals – Where to Start?
The start of a new year brings fresh opportunities to reflect, plan, and set your Charity up for financial success. Whether you’re looking to stabilise your cash flow, grow your impact, or improve financial management…
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How to be the inventor of your own future
By David Saint I run a lot of Board awaydays, very often as part of the strategic planning process, and a recurring theme is just how hard it is to take the long-term view and imagine what we would like the world (or…
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The breakfast club of investment
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Legal lowdown: What's in store for charities in 2025?
This was the question that Jo Coleman, charities partner at Womble Bond Dickinson, addressed at our webinar on 14 January. Various legislative and regulatory updates affecting the charity sector in the UK are expected to…
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The Captain Tom Foundation: Lessons for the charity sector
The Charity Commission's recent inquiry report into The Captain Tom Foundation, the findings of which have been widely reported in the news, found repeated instances of misconduct and mismanagement. The Charity…
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Does whistleblowing protection extend to a charity trustee?
Introduction This was the question for the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) in the case of MacLennan v The British Psychological Society (the BPS) . Background Mr MacLennan was a member of the BPS and had concerns about…
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Lessons from recent Charity Commission inquiries
Just before Christmas, the Charity Commission published its inquiry into the Quba Trust, through which it found misconduct and mismanagement in the administration of the charity. The Commission proactively carried out a…
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Martyn’s Law – progress through Parliament
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, also known as Martyn’s Law, had its second reading in the House of Lords. The Bill follows the Manchester Arena Inquiry and London Bridge Inquest, which called for…
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Are your Charity’s investment reviews robust enough?
Regular investment reviews are vital for charities to ensure alignment with objectives, risks, and comply with regulations. We offers independent review services to assess performance, risk, and adherence to investment…
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Why choose Waverton for your Charity
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Writing and reviewing your Charity's Investment Policy (1)
Whether you are considering investing for the first time or due to undertake a review of your existing investment policy, this article sets out some key things to take into consideration when writing and reviewing your…
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Guide to conducting an Investment Manager review
Once your investment policy has been finalised, you may well be looking to select an investment manager. But, with a number of different managers out there, where should you start? Selecting an investment manager can be…
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Investing your Charity's money for the first time (1)
We know that investing for a financial return in not a simple or quick decision for many charities. This guide will take you through the following key considerations: 1. RULES & REGULATION 2. UNDERSTANDING RISK 3…
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Guide to responsible investing
A charity’s responsible investment policy should sit within, and form a part of, the wider investment policy. With new generations of trustees joining the ranks and an increased spotlight on responsible investing…
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Market Reflection and EFG Harris Allday View
2024 has been another eventful year for global economies and financial markets. Key themes have included the commencement of central bank cutting cycles, the continued dominance of the artificial intelligence (AI) theme…
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An Interview with John Authers: Senior Markets Editor at Bloomberg
To close out 2024, we welcome the acclaimed financial journalist, John Authers. With over 30 years of experience at the Financial Times and Bloomberg, John shares his expert insights on the year, including the resilience…
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Global Outlook Video - January 2025 - document
This document shows the charts that we think are particularly useful to help us determine where we are in the economic cycle and what the outlook is for markets. The topics covered are as follows: Summary of our views…
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Polls apart: A review of the year of divergence
2024 marked a year of political upheaval and historic shifts in global equity markets, with the rise of the “Magnificent Seven” tech giants driving unprecedented market concentration. How do these developments compare to…
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Global Outlook Video - January 2025
In this video, William Dinning, Chief Investment Officer, discusses the factors driving market volatility at the start of 2025. He explores the global rise in bond yields, the outlook for inflation, and the implications…
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Far From the Finishing Post – Matthew McLennan (First Eagle)
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https://www.taml.co.uk/blog/responsible-investment-report-no15/
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Troy Global Equity Strategy Newsletter No.19
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Income Matters No.8
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Responsible Investment Report No.14
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Far From the Finishing Post – Gabrielle Boyle & George Viney (Troy)
Gabrielle Boyle and George Viney co-manage Troy’s Global Equity strategy. We discuss why the market persistently underestimates the compounding power of rare and exceptional companies, the importance of recognising one’s…
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Private Markets - Five Essential Insights for Charity Investors
In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, private markets are generating interest with investors, including charities. The search for higher returns, diversification, and access to innovative opportunities are…
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LGT - Market Outlook 2025
Outlook 2025 - Navigating transformation, trade and technology.
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Five-year anniversary note: The M&G Charity Multi Asset Fund
November 2024 marked the five year anniversary of the M&G Charity Multi Asset Fund. From the initial pessimism during the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent inflationary effects, to the current optimism surrounding the…
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Investment Perspectives 2025 Outlook: No time for complacency
2024 proved to be an eventful year with a record number of global elections, ongoing preoccupation with the outlook for monetary policy and some bouts of extreme market turbulence. However, this complex backdrop did not…
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Case Study: Strategic Awayday – Actors Benevolent Fund
“Felicia was excellent. She delivered everything I hoped she would and more. Everybody has given really positive feedback. It’s enabled us to reach agreement on our strategic direction and build relationships.” Alison…
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Charity Marketing – Part 4: Public Relations – a nice to have or a fundamental piece of your armoury?
By Kate Nicholas Public relations (PR) or communications is perhaps one of the least understood of marketing disciplines. Often dismissed as a rather ‘fluffy’ nice to have, PR is, in fact, one of the most critical…
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Charity facts you need to know in 2025
The team at Charity Digital share all the latest facts and statistics about the charity sector, looking particularly at how digital is changing the landscape of fundraising, service delivery, volunteering, marketing…
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What to know when selecting a Charity Investment Manager
With bespoke management, collective investment vehicles, and advisory solutions, the investment options available to UK charities can seem endless. Here we explore expectations on charity trustees, alongside best…
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Time to review your Charity’s Investment Policy Statement?
In the wake of the Butler-Sloss v Charity Commission judgement and with the Charity Commission expected to publish updated investment guidance for trustees in the coming months, it may be a good time to ensure that your…
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Managing Partnership Disputes: A Guide for Charities in England and Wales
Partnerships are a common and often successful organisational structure in England and Wales, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The collaborative nature of partnerships allows for shared…
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Dealing With Bad Weather Disruptions
With winter around the corner, adverse weather conditions are likely to cause disruption to employees’ travel arrangements and ability to commute to the workplace. So, how should an employer handle workplace issues…
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Top 10 moments for charity law and regulation in 2024
In the spirit of the season and with the New Year in sight, here are our ten key moments in charity law and regulation for 2024: 1. March saw the third tranche of the Charities Act 2022 come into force. Changes were made…
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Update: Key Amendments To The Employment Rights Bill 2024 published
An Amendment Paper to the Employment Rights Bill 2024 was published on 27 November 2024 (“ Paper ”) and introduced several changes, the key ones to note being: 1. Extending the time limit to bring Employment Tribunal…
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Charity marketing – Part 3: Why good copywriting and storytelling matter
By Claire Smith This year marked 10 years of freelance copywriting in the charity sector for me. How many words have been tapped out on my keyboard in that time, I wondered? More importantly, have they all counted? Here…
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Outlook 2025
Welcome to our “Outlook 2025”, the investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF at the bottom of this page. In the following chapters, we look at what the growing…
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Do you need an AI Policy?
Since generative AI programmes rose to prominence in 2022, it has been adapted, used and misused by people and businesses across the world. It may be tempting to make use of AI to make some processes more efficient, or…
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Who is batting for Trustees?
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Changes to Bereavement Leave: What Employers Need to Know
Grief is a deeply personal experience, and its impact on an individual’s wellbeing and productivity should never be underestimated. When employees are faced with the loss of a loved one, their capacity to focus on work…
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New Employers Duty to Prevent Sexual Harassment Within The Workplace
Sexual harassment within the workplace has been rightly unlawful for some time and therefore, employers should already have some policies and procedures in place to handle it should it occur. Previously, employers were…
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5 minute video update from Freddie Lait on Latitude's multi-asset strategy
The multi-asset and absolute return sectors have struggled with redemptions over the last 3 years, but Latitude Horizon is one of just 10% of funds to see inflows . Here’s a five-minute video which recaps what we have…
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Investing charity assets – getting risk and strategy right
When it comes to charity investment portfolios, putting in place the right strategy and finding the correct balance between risk and return, isn’t as easy as it may seem. Here are some of the risks trustees should be…
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Case study: CEO recruitment
“We went out to tender with three other companies and Action Planning came in significantly cheaper than a couple of them and slightly below the other. Cost is big thing to us. We have a fairly longstanding relationship…
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US elections risks and opportunities: Pricing in known unknowns
Over the past five years, global equity markets have risen despite some very obvious risks. Could it be that risks often turn out to be a source of opportunities? Stuart Canning, Fund Manager in the Global Macro Team…
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How emotional bias could drive exploitable market inefficiencies
The propensity for emotion and bias to influence our decision making is a common experience, even among financial professionals. Falling victim to bouts of overconfidence, groupthink and herd mentality are common human…
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United Trust Bank Cyber Security Webinar Recording with Rob Shapland, Ethical Hacker - 12th November 2024
Cyber Security Webinar Recording with Rob Shapland, Ethical Hacker - 12th November 2024
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Budget 2024: Chancellor gives with one hand, takes with other
Budget 2024: Chancellor gives with one hand, takes with other The Chancellor gives with one hand and takes with the other By David Prosser It might be described as a balanced budget – for savers and investors at least…
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Autumn Budget 2024: Key Changes for Employers
On the 30th of October 2024, the Labour Government announced its Autumn Budget. The budget included notable changes for employers to consider. Increase to National Minimum Wage Rates In advance of the budget, the…
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Top Legal Tips For Your Office Christmas Party
The work Christmas party is a great chance to get colleagues together for a festive celebration. But it can also bring with it unwanted consequences and repercussions for employers. What should employers be aware of?…
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What trustess need to know if your charity is in financial distress
What do you need to know if your charity faces financial distress? Understanding trustee responsibilities and key practical steps. Charities are, unfortunately, continuing to experience situations in which their finances…
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Admincontrol Joins the UK G-Cloud 14 Framework !
We’re excited to announce that Admincontrol is now officially part of the UK Government’s G-Cloud 14 Framework for both Board Portal and Virtual Data Room services🎉 This is a significant milestone for us, giving us the…
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What risk does AI pose to your charity?
AI is becoming more prevalent in the tools and software organisations use. The use of AI Chatbots has become something of a trending topic. Whilst AI presents opportunities to increase productivity for the individual and…
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Charities Law Brief November 2024
Autumn Budget 2024 - significant increase in charities' staffing costs The new Government's first budget, announced on 31 October 2024, includes measures increasing employer National Insurance Contributions and the…
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Investment Report No. 82
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How to Build Long-Term Financial Sustainability
When we talk about sustainability, most people think of environmental responsibility. However, for charities sustainability is also about ensuring long-term financial security. It's about safeguarding your organisation’s…
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Ready to Master Fund Accounting?
Take the first step today and ensure your organisation is tracking its funds correctly and staying compliant. Continue reading to access our resources and start mastering fund accounting! Let’s help you make your…
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Celebrating National Trustees Week 2024
This week is National Trustee Week in the UK. According to the Charity Commission there are 923,876 trustees in England and Wales and a further 184,000 in Scotland. Unfortunately, it is estimated that there are around…
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UK Budget: Key details
The Labour government has unveiled its first Budget since taking office in July. It brings to an end several months of fevered speculation about the future direction of UK taxation and spending. As many commentators had…
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Private Markets Annual Report 2024
Family offices and wealthy individuals are showing increasing interest in private markets, an asset class that historically has been largely inaccessible to non-institutional investors. Our first Private Markets Annual…
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Charity Investment Consulting Partnership launched to drive better outcomes for UK charities
· The CICP will work with the Charity Commission, membership organisations, asset managers and stakeholders of the charity sector · Aims to achieve better investment outcomes and practice across charity industry · New…
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Charity marketing – Part 2: Three surprising differences between charity and commercial marketing
By Ned Wells When Melissa Fretwell asked me to write an article for White Camino comparing marketing for charities with marketing for businesses, I thought it would be quite straightforward. But the further I got into…
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Charity marketing - Part 1: Tactics and relationships
Among all the services we offer to the charity sector, the one that receives the most demand is help with fundraising at the strategic level. Charities want to know how they can raise their profile, get their message…
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How charities can support job sharing
With the sector facing a skills shortage, job sharing is one way to access a greater range of skills and experience. Here are some tips to recruit, onboard and manage a job share Job sharing is when two people share the…
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The Impact of FRS 102 Amendments on Charities SORP Compliance
The FRC has issued substantial amendments to FRS 102, that aim to ‘enhance the quality of UK financial reporting’ by aligning UK GAAP with IFRS in key areas, including new revenue recognition and lease accounting models…
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Troy UK Equity Income – Protect & Grow No.12
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INGO structure models for a fast-changing world
By David Bull The emerging “crisis” facing International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGOs) centres around the power relationships between INGOs and the communities they work alongside. These power dynamics include…
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Some useful advice.
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Market Perspectives October 2024
Welcome to our October edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look at the impact of the recent US rate cut and forthcoming…
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CCLA-led modern slavery programme announces progress across corporate engagement, public policy and data
Our annual Find it, Fix it, Prevent it report outlines progress made by investors to combat modern slavery in company supply chains. Supported by investors with collective assets under management and advisory of £15…
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An Interview with Pip Hare: Racing the Globe
In this episode, host Luke Hide-Smith interviews the remarkable Pip Hare, one of the few women to ever complete the Vendée Globe - a gruelling solo, non-stop and without assistance round-the-world sailing race. Pip…
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Global Outlook Video - September
In this video, Bill Dinning, Chief Investment Officer, discusses recent market movements, highlighting concerns over a potential U.S. recession, which he believes may be overstated. Bill explains that the U.S. Federal…
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An Interview with Financial Journalist Merryn Somerset Webb
In this episode, Luke Hyde-Smith hosts renowned financial columnist Merryn Somerset Webb, who shares her insights on inflation, private markets, and UK equities. They discuss Merryn's recent article advocating for a…
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Fundraising for a specific project? Why it pays to carry out a feasibility study
By Andrew Rainsford When you need to fundraise for a specific project, it may seem counterintuitive to begin by spending money. That’s the thinking that holds a lot of organisations back from carrying out a fundraising…
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Admincontrol's Board Portal - Used by Charities across the UK
Admincontrol' s Board Portal is utilised by Charities right across the UK. If you would like to learn more and you are keen to become more secure and more efficient please do not hesitate to reach out. Here at…
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Discover the new Admincontrol Board Portal iOS app!
The brand new Admincontrol iOS app is designed to optimise access to business-critical information and speed up board work for charity board members. Stay on top of your to-do list with signature requests, upcoming…
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Financial Statements 101: What You Need to Know
Financial statements can seem overwhelming at first glance, especially when you’re running a charity or social enterprise. Yet, understanding these statements is vital if you want to keep your organisation financially…
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‘Impact’ should be the be the beating heart of charity finance…not just a reporting requirement
When a word or phrase grows in popularity and is used with increased frequency, it becomes easy to assume that we know what we mean by it, and that a consistent definition is employed by all. Take ‘impact reporting’ as…
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5 ways to improve your organisational planning
Good organisational planning covers a number of facets, from strategic planning to management, communications and evaluation. As an overview, we’ve compiled insights from six Action Planning Associate Consultants, with…
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Responsible Investment Stewardship 2023
Waverton is committed to integrate sustainability throughout the business. Our sustainability strategy consists of four pillars: Responsible Investment, People & Wellbeing, Environment and Community. We recognise we have…
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How much can charities spend from their investment portfolios?
How much can charities spend from their investment portfolios? This is a simple question, easy to answer. First, charities should be clear whether they are trying to get bigger, stay the same size (allowing for…
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Inspired Magazine: The next generation of conservation
** This article is an excerpt from our Inspired Magazine publication** Two next-gen philanthropists share their unique insights on grant-making and family collaboration, as they juggle fulltime careers with being donors…
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How to protect your organisation from fraud in 2024
Charities are not immune to fraud and can even be more vulnerable to it. Learn how to protect your charity from fraud and how to report it… According to the National Crime Agency, fraud is the most common crime in the UK…
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Tax for charity fundraisers made simple
Fundraising is the lifeblood of many charities. We encourage you to share this simple guide with your teams and trustees. It explains the main Gift Aid, VAT and direct tax consequences of sixteen common charity…
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Meeting an MP? The one question you must be ready for (1)
By Claire Mathys Any change of Government or Prime Minister brings with it new faces for campaigning organisations to meet and win over. It’s vital that you grasp the opportunity and make a strong first impression…
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Small charities need a louder voice
By Clare McIntosh and Laura Treneer “Underfunded and overlooked”. This is how grassroots charities are described in the May 2024 report by the Centre for Social Justice. It is a deeply concerning read. Here’s one…
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Investment Report No.80
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Responsible Investment Report No.12
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Income Matters No.7
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Global Equity Strategy Newsletter No.18
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Troy UK Equity Income – Protect & Grow No.11
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Responsible Investment No.13
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Investment Report No.81
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What action can employers take in response to incidents of public disorder?
While the UK has previously seen incidents of public disorder, these have tended to be restricted in terms of location. The geographical breadth of the ongoing public disorder that we are seeing in many towns and cities…
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Updated guidance for charities on holding meetings in the Zoom era
On 19 th July 2024, the Charity Commission refreshed its meetings guidance for charities in what it’s called ‘the Zoom era’. The regulator is calling on charities that hold online meetings to review their governing…
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The rising cost of living: why investing has never been more important for charities
&G Charity Funds are actively helping charities and foundations battle the drop in donations that’s being felt across the sector. The cost of living crisis and the impact of inflation are biting hard, and you’ll know…
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Geo-politics and the investing landscape
Geo-politics’ is a term used to describe countries and their relationships. It’s fair to say we’ve seen an increase in challenging political landscapes and strained relationships between a lot of countries. Of all the…
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Fixed income: What’s the issue with the new issue premium?
Amid surging demand for investment grade (IG) corporate bonds, the new issue premium typically offered by companies turned negative in the first quarter of 2024. This comes as investors seek to lock in higher yields…
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UK Equities: a Buyers’ Market?
The UK market has been suffering at least a decade of chronic outflows, but we believe it may be about to turn a corner The FTSE 100 has quietly emerged as the best-performing developed market index since the start of…
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Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) – What the FCA’s new regulation means in practice
On 28th November 2023, the FCA published its long-awaited Policy Statement on Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) and Investment Labels (PS23/16). This regulation is centred on the FCA’s regulatory objective of…
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Japan: The butterfly effect
Japanese equities have just experienced one of their biggest ever drawdowns. Carl Vine, Co-Head of Asia Pacific Equities, examines the causes of this market volatility and the potential implications for investing in…
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Understanding how Unicredit is supporting the transition to net zero
Castlefield analyst, Barney Timson explains how we recently engaged with UniCredit, an Italian listed, pan-European commercial bank (held within our CFP Castlefield Sustainable European fund), to better understand how it…
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Engagement with The Gym Group to make their gyms even safer
In this Castlefield stock story, Eleanor Walley outlines our engagement with The Gym Group on the topic of gym safety, discussing the policies and procedures in place to foster a safe environment for gym users. We also…
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UK equities could offer refuge for charities seeking higher income
Charities battle rising costs Like many individuals and institutions, the sharp rise in inflation over the past two years has left many charities struggling to meet the rising costs of running their day-to-day…
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How to combat online misinformation
We outline the best strategies for tackling inaccurate information The digital age has exposed many people all over the world to lightning-fast communication and vast scales of connection. The rapid exchange of…
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How to protect your savings from falling interest rates
https://www.utbank.co.uk/savings-and-deposits/protect-savings-from-falling-interest-rates/
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UK Charities Could Generate Extra Income Equivalent to Six London Marathons a Year by Earning Just 0.5% More Interest on Cash Reserves
https://www.utbank.co.uk/savings-and-deposits/how-uk-charities-could-boost-income/
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How OpsPal can help charities governance an operations
Here is a link to a document that explains how we can help any charity improve their governance and how they operate. We do a deal for all Charity intelligence members, with 40% off the licence fee for life. after…
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Spotlight on LGT Charities’ Team
About the team… The LGT Charities team has been working in partnership with charities by supporting trustees and building investment portfolios around their individual needs for over 20 years. LGT Wealth Management is…
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How to boost your charity’s marketing: Five top tips
There’s an almost endless list of things for your charity to consider when developing or polishing up a strategic marketing plan. Here are five of the most important: 1. Who are your audiences? Everything in marketing…
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Cyber Security Webinar Recording
On 11th July we hosted a Cyber Security Webinar presented by Ethical Hacker, Rob Shapland. If you would like to find out how you can protect yourself and your organisation from cyber security threats please do follow the…
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£31bn of Charity money sat idle?
RACHEL TITCHEN, Charities and Investment Director at consultancy BROADSTONE, calls for a more flexible and adaptive approach to charity investing. Trustees and their investment managers should be prepared to think more…
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Leading benchmark on workplace mental health in UK finds “revealing” gap between leaders and laggards
CCLA's third benchmark on corporate mental health shows just over one in four (24) of the UK’s largest listed employers have improved their tier performance on workplace mental health in the past year – to the implied…
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How charities can avoid 'revenue leakage'
Mistakes and poor organisation are costing charities more than £6bn a year, latest research has found. We look at the research and give advice to help charities to avoid the problem. Action is needed by charities to…
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Low inflation, high interest rates = a great time for savers
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Mid-Year Outlook 2024
Welcome to our “Mid-Year Outlook”, the investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF at the bottom of this page. In the chapters below, we look at the different paths…
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How to Make Your Money Work Harder
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Interest Rate Prediction Uncertainty
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Managing Charity Cash Surpluses
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Quick Guide to Savings Accounts for Charities
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Investing advanced school fee payments
As the threat of VAT being added to independent school fees becomes more realistic, we understand that there has been a surge in interest in advanced fee payment schemes. For those independent schools in receipt of funds…
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Investing for good: Exploring ways to create positive outcomes for society with your investments.
Investors are increasingly wondering if they can make a difference with their investments and contribute to sustainable outcomes for society and the environment. This article explores the different ways that investors…
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Investing for the next decade
MEET THE NEW NORMAL, SAME AS THE OLD NORMAL The first few years of the 2020s have been characterised by huge shocks to the global economy – from the pandemic to the Ukraine war. When the dust settles, we think the global…
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Can a charity borrow money from a bank?
Can my charity borrow money from a bank? Is borrowing possible for a charity? Does a charity need express power to borrow? We go through the first things to consider when a charity is thinking about taking out a loan…
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The Unsung Heroes: Accountants Empowering Charities
In the world of social enterprises, charities, and not-for-profit organisations, the role of an accountant often goes unnoticed. However, these financial wizards play a crucial part in the success and sustainability of…
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Castlefield sponsors Northern Sustainability Summit
At Castlefield we like to share our mission of 'gathering assets to do good'. Sustainability is in everything that we do, so we're delighted to share that we'll be sponsoring the 2024 Northern Sustainability Summit…
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What are the changes to Child Benefit and how will they affect high earners?
Child Benefit has gained some attention recently in the press. The chancellor announced some immediate changes in the Spring Budget as well as a consultation into the controversial way the benefit is calculated…
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Castlefield joins the Financial Vulnerability Taskforce Charter
We’re pleased to announce that Castlefield has pledged their support to the Financial Vulnerability Taskforce Charter (FVT). The FVT is an independent representative body covering the personal finance sector and was…
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Time for Tennis
When consistency of returns means more than points.
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The cost of living crisis: grant making foundations
Part one of the series provided a very valuable insight, highlighting the effect of the cost-of-living crisis for many charities, and how they can adjust their fundraising model to relieve pressures. In this piece, we…
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Investing for Charities - a helpful guide
A book that cuts through the investment industry’s mystique and jargon to show you how you can set an investment policy that maximises the value to your beneficiaries by thinking clearly about your financial goals and…
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Waverton: A Truly Integrated ESG Approach
James Pike and Stefan Rheinwald: A truly integrated ESG approach. Waverton's approach is truly integrated; we have asset class and regional equity specialists that know the companies intimately, looking at the…
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Legacy fundraising: now or never?
By Claire Smith “We know we need to do legacy fundraising, but we don’t know where to start.” That’s a query I hear often, especially from small charities where one person is often responsible for multiple income…
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Get that grant! How to add some bang to your bids
By various Action Planning Associates Funders receive tens, if not hundreds, of applications – how can you make yours stand out? We asked some of our experienced fundraising consultants for their tips on putting together…
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Big Give Christmas campaign – now is the time to start planning
By Emma Goulds If you are like me and thinking about Christmas in Autumn makes you groan, the idea of doing any planning for it this side of the Summer might not be very appealing. But if you are contemplating digital…
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Scrabble without the rules – It all spells creativity
The 13th April was National Scrabble Day, and to play his part in the celebration, David Saint shared an activity he sometimes uses in awaydays to get the creative juices flowing. Some individuals – and perhaps even more…
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How to handle Flexible Working requests
By Tracy Madgwick What does the new Flexible Working amendment mean for you and your organisation? How should you handle requests for flexible working? What are your employees’ rights in this area, and what are yours?…
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Everything you need to know about the Charity Commission
We explore how history of the Charity Commission, the role of the Commission in today’s society, how the Commission registers and regulates the charity sector, and so much more. The Charity Commission has become an…
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Castlefield receive 2024 ARC Research 3D Award
Castlefield has been announced as recipients of the 2024 ARC Research 3D Award demonstrating Castlefield's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, engagement, and integrity in investment…
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Castlefield launch latest annual stewardship report
Castlefield is delighted to launch our latest Annual Stewardship Report. Our latest Annual Stewardship report details our Thoughtful Investment approach and is a comprehensive assessment for the last full calendar year…
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The delicate dance of donation diplomacy
New guidance from the Charity Commission seeks to guide on the principles of gift acceptance. hashtag # philanthropy hashtag # charity hashtag # donations hashtag # consultancy hashtag # fundraising Read the full article…
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FJ brand video
You can view our brand video here .
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FJ announces new principal consultant
FJ Philanthropy , a specialist management consulting firm, is delighted to announce that Anne Hayward is joining the team to further boost the strength and depth of the consultancy offering. Anne brings with her over…
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Revolutionising Charity Governance - A great CEO insight to Admincontrol' s Board Portal offering for Charities.
Mark Bishop, CEO of Dynamic Earth, implemented the Admincontrol board portal as one of his first decisions when he started in his position. This has revolutionised their governance, making it more effective, secure, and…
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Reporting serious incidents to the Charity Commission – is there a legacy context?
The Charity Commission regards Serious Incident Reporting as an important element of its regulatory approach. As a matter of policy, it expects charities to report all 'serious incidents' promptly. Legacy income…
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Workshop: A step-by-step guide to managing financial budgets
APPLY NOW Managing charity budgets can be a daunting prospect, particularly in times of economic uncertainty. The UK has experienced a recession, a cost-of-living crisis, rising inflation, and slow economic growth in…
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How to make better decisions with charity data
It is no secret that charities are home to more data than ever before. With the advent of digital fundraising in particular , charities have a much clearer idea of who their donors are, how often they donate, the amounts…
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Waverton's Engagement and Voting Report 2023
As active, long-term investors, we prefer to build constructive relationships with company management and engage with them directly on a regular basis, both to better understand their business model and direction of…
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WS Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund - Q1 2024 Update (webinar)
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CCLA co-files shareholder resolution at Amazon’s 2024 AGM
CCLA co-files shareholder resolution calling for Amazon to appoint a reputable third-party to produce a gap analysis of their practice vs their labour standards policy.
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Advocating for mandatory Scope 3 emissions disclosure
Here we discuss why we support mandatory scope 3 disclosure, why it matters and how companies are progressing.
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Dancing to a different tune?
In sustainable investment circles it has been hard to escape the news that the world's top five money managers are quitting Climate Action 100+. What does this mean for investors and the industry?
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Working hand in hand with Charities
The charities sector group at Shakespeare Martineau have created a new video to help try and explain what we do and how we can help charities. Working hand in hand with Charities | Shakespeare Martineau (youtube.com)
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What is digital ethics?
As charities move to digital in many of their activities, we examine the importance of a code of digital ethics to govern their behaviour. Charities of all types are becoming increasingly data-driven and expanding their…
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The cost-of-living crisis: how does this impact the charity sector?
The cost-of-living is already felt by many. Whilst it is affecting individuals and families across the UK, it is also having an increasing effect on the charities sector. Our Head of Charities and Philanthropy, Rupert…
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How to make volunteering more inclusive
Volunteers are a lifeline for many charities, so it’s important to treat them with equity and fairness . Everyone should be able to volunteer and make a difference, whatever their background . To attract and retain…
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What type of accounts does your charity need to prepare?
Beyond Profit Ltd What type of accounts does your charity need to prepare? This really depends on what type of charity you are. If you are incorporated, you will need to prepare accruals-based accounts, regardless of…
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Market Perspectives April 2024
Welcome to our April edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we have a special focus on India in light of the country’s thriving…
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'How to improve your financial management'
Great news! Our webinar 'How to improve your financial management' is now available to view on-demand. Click on the HERE to watch the session now or bookmark the page for later.
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Action Planning and the Stephen Lloyd Awards – incubating brilliant ideas
Now in its 10 th year, the Stephen Lloyd Awards is an invaluable catalyst for bright ideas. Since 2015, when the Awards were launched by Bates Wells Foundation in memory of Bates Wells’ former managing partner, they have…
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Charity boards that are short on women are missing out
How many women do you have on your board or senior leadership team? The answer for most charities is, not enough. A recent report by Pro Bono Economics found that, while women make up 68% of employees in the UK charity…
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How to stop repeating your recruitment mistakes
In case you missed it, Friday 2 nd of February was Groundhog Day, a date that has become synonymous with repetition, thanks to the film of that name starring Bill Murray. Every morning he wakes up to find he’s reliving…
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CCLA Sustainable Investment Outcomes 2023 report
Despite the growing attention on ESG, we believe the investment industry has not truly understood that the only way to manage these risks is to go beyond the make-up of our portfolios and make a lasting real-world…
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How to raise funds for nonprofits and charities
At Moore Kingston Smith Nonprofit Advisory , we often work with nonprofits and charities that are facing changing financial circumstances. This is the first in our series of articles that explore the seven different ways…
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Welcome to Admincontrol' s Board Evaluation Tool
Admincontrol' s Board Evaluation is developed through years of experience with evaluating boards and optimising board performance. Download Board Evaluation One Pager.pdf
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Hobson's choice
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BRICS and BATS
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Happy Easter from Admincontrol!
We hope you had a productive first quarter of the year and are looking forward to the Easter Break. At Admincontrol we are as busy as ever, striving to enhance our products and services to make decision-making even…
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Newsletter March 2024
This month our team have been talking about the tax implications of hybrid working as well as taking a deep dive into attitudes towards audit! And as usual we have the latest happenings in the sector and free events and…
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Market Perspectives March 2024
Welcome to our March edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, following recent hotter-than-expected US economic data, we…
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2024 Engagement Action Plan
At Rathbones we are committed to being good stewards of our clients’ assets. This means we look to use the investor rights and influence we have to protect and enhance overall long-term value, including the common…
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What do charities need from digital? Join our steering group
Ch arity Digital and Dot Project are collaborating to deliver year three of a digital resilience programme funded by Okta for Good . From March - May 2024 we are conducting a phase of research to evolve the design and…
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Why you need cyber security?
Cyber security is important because our devices have become essential to our ability to deliver services, raise funds, and continue daily operations. Any act that prevents our ability to use devices poses a serious…
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Charities Act 2022: further changes coming into force on 7 March 2024
When the Charities Act 2022 (the Act) first received Royal Assent back on 24 February 2022, it introduced a number of new laws with the aim of simplifying and modernising the regulation of charities in England and Wales…
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4 lessons from supporting 5 social enterprises - simultaneously
As my work supporting five social enterprises to become more adept at marketing and business development comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on what I’ve learnt. It’s been a brilliant experience. And I feel proud to…
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Your Guide to the Boardroom in 2024
Admincontrol' s essential guide to the global trends shaping boardroom agendas helps board directors focus on the critical issues requiring strategic focus and foresight in 2024.
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Assessing risk along the path of change
Adapting to change is hard for any organisation, as we tend to be averse to change due to the risk involved. Yet, as we’ve seen in the last few years, necessity can force big changes that we must navigate to survive and…
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Should charities invest in Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) as a business tool and as an investable theme presents a compelling opportunity for charities both by affecting their own business operations and enhancing their portfolios’…
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Foundations of a Robust Charity Investment Strategy: Risk, Return and a bit of maths
This article continues our exploration of Strategic Investment Framework for Charities , a series of articles for charity trustees and executives that we develop in collaboration with Robert Hayes , a senior consultant…
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Foundations of a Robust Charity Investment Strategy: Thinking About Risk
This article continues our exploration of Strategic Investment Framework for Charities , a series of articles for charity trustees and executives that we develop in collaboration with Robert Hayes , a senior consultant…
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Foundations of a Robust Charity Investment Strategy: Setting your objectives
This is the second article in the series on Strategic Investment Framework for Charities that we worked on in collaboration with Robert Hayes , a senior consultant to PMCL Consulting. In the first article we discussed…
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Foundations of a Robust Charity Investment Strategy: Starting with the Basics
Introducing our new series of articles on Strategic Investment Framework for Charities We are excited to announce the launch of a new article series centred on the strategic investment framework for UK Charities…
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Why should charities use an Investment Manager?
Having joined Harris Allday this last autumn as Head of Charities and Philanthropy – Rupert Cecil will be writing a short note on a regular basis designed specifically for charities. Here is his short note: recently met…
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Market Perspectives February 2024
Welcome to our February edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we highlight how the pace of rate cuts might shape financial…
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Guide to Giving
Welcome to our ‘Guide to Giving’ Created by our in-house philanthropy team, its 12 chapters are designed to help you navigate the fast-evolving world of modern giving. As well as exploring key issues donors face and…
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How can data help charities to support their beneficiaries?
Data is everywhere, in everything we do. But many of us don’t capture this data, let alone analyse it. By doing so though, charities can identify efficiencies, save money and make more informed decisions. All of this…
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5 Investment themes for 2024: Opportunities after ‘The Great Escape’
In the classic Second World War film ‘The Great Escape’, the odds of Allied prisoners of war escaping captivity were long. Nonetheless, the prisoners hatched a plan and while 76 fled, only three made it to freedom.
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Charities and Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the opportunity and strategic implications
Generative AI is the present and the future, but with opportunities comes risk. Have you considered how can AI help your charity, staff and stakeholders? Is it a threat? Will it cost jobs? What happens to critical…
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The importance of taking independent investment advice
The importance of taking independent advice Navigating the world of investments can be difficult and often daunting. Investible assets can be powerful to help fund and support a charitable cause, but knowing what to…
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February freebie – what will you do with the extra day?
How often do you hear yourself saying, “I wish I had more time”? Well, every four years your wish is granted – an extra day appears in your diary for FREE, thanks to the calendrical quirk that is the leap year. Oh happy…
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One from the heart – How to add some love to your fundraising campaigns
By Tim Glynne-Jones, with Naomi Buckler, Supporter Communications specialist, and Faith Chrisp, Customer and Supporter Experience specialist It’s Valentine’s Day – one day of the year that’s bound to set your letterbox…
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How to recruit trustees for your charity
This free guide, sponsored by Rathbones, seeks to demystify the process and promote the practice of open recruitment for charity boards. How to recruit trustees for your charity guide includes: real-life case studies…
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An A-Z of charity terms and definitions
We have compiled an extensive glossary of all phrases and terminology related to the charity sector, philanthropy, and non-profit organisations, and offer a succinct description of each. A Advocacy: Advocacy means…
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10 reasons why we built our digital operations software
Here is a quick guide on why we built our digital operations software: Click here to revie w 1) Staff and volunteers nned to be able to find important information as quickly and easily as possible 2) Managers and boards…
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OpsPal overview - making your operations digital
So we here at OpsPal have teamed up with Charity Intelligence to offer you a highly discounted rate on our digital operations software, which can be used for any business or facility. It will help you know when important…
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Biodiversity and climate change: A joint challenge
The emergence of nature and biodiversity The case for tackling climate change has become increasingly clear to investors in recent years. Governments have stepped up efforts to mitigate and manage the devastating impacts…
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Five ways to improve your fundraising copy
By Claire Smith You have an incredible opportunity this Easter – an opportunity to love your donors, remind them how amazing they are and grow your income. How? By truly putting your supporters at the heart of your…
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Telling research for reaching young people
By Laura Treneer This month Youthscape has published the first part of its ambitious ‘Translating God’ research, exploring how young people understand and respond to the Christian story. After more than two years of work…
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Top tips to set you on the road to net zero
What does net zero actually mean? The UK Government has pledged to achieve ‘net zero’ by 2050. That means that all the greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted by human activity will be matched by removing the same amount from…
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Building on COP28 – next steps for the charity sector
By Tim Glynne-Jones Another United Nations climate summit has been and gone (that’s 28 now), so what has been achieved? And how can charities build on the outcomes of COP28 to continue driving forward measures to curb…
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Good governance
This time last year I was in the middle of a national speaking tour on governance for a network of food banks. Guided by the questions and discussions that came out of that time, I thought I would distill the most…
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12 priorities for 2024
Find out the top tips that emerged as we asked Action Planning Associates to complete this sentence with charity leaders in mind: “As you begin the new year, don’t forget to prioritise…” Yourself David Saint The airlines…
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Compelling findings from recent donor research
By Laura Treneer Digital fundraising tech company Enthuse carries out donor research and publishes its findings in the quarterly Donor Pulse report. The latest Autumn 2023 Donor Pulse report presents five useful findings…
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Charities Act 2022 – Latest Developments
The next tranche of charity law reforms under the Charities Act 2022 are due to be implemented in March this year. The reforms were originally due to be implemented in the autumn of 2023 but have been pushed back on two…
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Investment insights webinar: Can investor confidence turn more definitively positive in 2024?
Discover the key questions facing investors in 2024 and the market impact of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ US tech giants – comprising Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta and Tesla – in Rathbones’ quarterly…
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On our radar for 2024
As is traditional at the start of a new year, we’ve given some thought to what lies ahead and the likely impact it may have on charities and social purpose organisations. We canvassed the Sayer Vincent team who dusted…
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Sustainable Finance: Balancing Financial Goals with Social Impact
In a recent discussion at the Navigating Change event, our audience heard from Guy Davies Co-Founder of Charity Intelligence, who shed light on how charities can balance their financial objectives with making a positive…
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ED&I at GatenbySanderson
https://vimeo.com/903387171?share=copy
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Has your Board had its MOT?
My car had its MOT last week and, at the same time, I had my NHS well-woman check, double whammy, and raising concerns as to whether the machinery is working as it should be…? As I sat in the waiting room (or one of…
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Smoking, the problems with ESG investing.
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Broadstone Small Charities Investment Consulting Service
Broadstone launches investment consultancy service for small charities • Innovative subscription service for smaller charities requiring expert, independent investment advice • Provides a package of tailored services…
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How A.I. can help charities confront the Cost-of-Living crisis
The benefits of using emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence ( AI ) , are vast. Here are some of the ways that AI can help charities save costs and improve efficiencies. Artificial intelligence (A.I.) is…
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A Christmas Gift
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How artificial intelligence is impacting finance
The ramifications of artificial intelligence (AI) are widespread across the local and global economy. The financial sector is no exception. The prevalence of AI in fina nc e is among the highest when compared to other…
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An ESG Christmas Carol
Let Dr James Corah, CCLA’s Head of Sustainability, take you on a journey through ESG past, present and future in his adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens.
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Launch of the CCLA Modern Slavery UK Benchmark 2023
The benchmark assesses the largest UK companies on how they are taking steps to eradicate modern slavery in their operations and supply chains. We believe investors have a key role to play in helping companies deliver…
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The spectre of personal criminal liability for charity trustees
A summary of the key takeaways from a recent webinar on the spectre of personal criminal liability for charity trustees. During the recent Trustees’ Week the Chief Executive of the Charity Commission said that one of the…
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What questions should boards ask when considering risk?
Effective risk management has never been so important. Risk processes have always been a vital part of any organisation’s strategy and performance. With the increasingly challenging nature of issues that organisations…
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Beware the sheep!
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Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill: Consumer rights v the Gift Aid regime
What matters As currently drafted, the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill now passing through the House of Lords could potentially undermine the continuing ability of a significant number of large and small…
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Q&A: Charity & election law for campaign charities
The next UK general election must be no later than January 2025, and might be as soon as spring 2024, depending on how Prime Minister Rishi Sunak feels his “5 goals” are progressing. Charities must get their message…
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Foregoing the fundraising: how can charities harness the power of marketing to increase their unrestricted revenue?
It’s not a great time to be a charity. There it is. Not an easy thing to hear, but it’s probably not news to you either. The truth is that charities are living through an unprecedented fundraising crisis. More and more…
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Buyer personas: the most powerful tool in a marketeers toolbox?
Author: Ned Wells, Director at Cicada Consulting Email: [email protected] ----- Building a persona helps you turn your thinking towards what your customers want to buy, and away from what you’d like to sell them…
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Free advice - resist change!
In Paul Johnson’s book, ‘ Follow the Money ’ he explains that all governments know the top three things they should do to create a successful, growing economy. They are: 1. respect the law and international treaties, and…
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What does the Bible say about being a charity trustee?
By Kate Nicholas The Bible is full of wisdom for charity executives, but what about being a charity trustee or running a board? Well, I suspect the writers of the Charity Governance Code knew their scripture, or at least…
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Unlocking the power of customer experience (CX) for non-profit leadership
By Faith Chrisp How seriously do you consider your customers’ perception of your organisation? While customer experience (CX) is typically associated with the business world, its principles apply just as much to…
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How charities can bridge the gap in Black and Asian representation on trustee boards
By Malcolm John, founder of the campaign organisation Action for Trustee Racial Diversity and a trustee of the Association of Chairs The aim of Action for Trustee Racial Diversity (ATRD), which I started some four years…
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Christmas planning: plan like a church leader if you want to reach churches
By Laura Treneer January may be the start of the calendar year, but for many church leaders the real launch month is September: new courses, new children’s group, new volunteers and hopefully new wind in the sails after…
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HR Lunch Club - 2024 Employment Law and HR Predictions - Tuesday 5 December 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Please join us at our free HR Lunch club. Please click on the link below to register.
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Reorganisations and Restructures: Implications for Sponsor Licences
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What Are Reasonable Adjustments and When Are Employers Required to Make Them?
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Managing Sickness Absences in the Workplace
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Gendered Insults Against Transgender Employees: Gender Reassignment Discrimination?
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Citibank Employee Fairly Dismissed for Falsifying Lunch Expenses Claim
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The Office Christmas Party : Advice for Employers
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Government Consultation Response to Holiday Pay and Tupe Reforms
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An interview with Stuart Dawks, CEO of PECT
Meet Stuart Dawks , CEO of PECT, an environmental organisation working in education, natural environment, waste and responsible resource use, health and wellbeing. I was particularly interested to chat with Stuart…
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An interview with Adam Bastock, Founder of Small 99
Meet Adam Bastock, Founder of Small 99 , a business offering carbon reduction plans for companies of up to 20 employees. I first came across Adam via the fantastic ‘People Planet Pint’ networking community that he’s set…
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An interview with John Shaw, Founder of Chiltern Rangers
Meet John Shaw, Founder and MD of Chiltern Rangers , a social enterprise in Buckinghamshire focusing on two things: community and conservation. John and I chatted as part of my quest to understand Social Enterprise’…
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An interview with Catherine Eadie, Director of MHSCOT Workplace Wellbeing
Meet Catherine Eadie, Founding Director of MHScot Workplace Wellbeing CIC . It’s a fab social enterprise that offers education to businesses about mental health and well-being in the workplace. Catherine has been in…
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An interview with Andy Gullick, CEO of Rift Social Enterprise
Meet Andy Gullick , chief executive of RIFT Social Enterprise , a not-for-profit organisation he founded to provide tailored support for people interested in becoming self-employed. RIFT works with people in prison and…
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An interview with Dan Sherrard-Smith, CEO of Mother Tree
In the first of my discussions on social enterprise business models, I chatted with Dan Sherrard-Smith CEO and founder of MotherTree , a company that makes it easy for busy professionals to go green and save money by…
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Social Enterprise business models - how does yours work?
Author: Ned Wells, Director at Cicada Consulting Email: [email protected] ----- In the summer of 2023 I found myself getting increasingly irked that so many organisations doing socially or environmentally-positive…
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Outlook 2024 - Barclays Private Bank
Strong economic headwinds will likely persist in 2024, amid an increasingly fraught geopolitical backdrop, and diverging fortunes in the key regions. Investors should brace both for uncertainty, and for market volatility…
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Practical guide for trustees to the Charity Commission's guidance on investing charity money (CC14)
In August the Charity Commission published an update to their guide ‘Investing charity money: a guide for trustees’, also known as CC14. We welcome this new guidance, are confident that we meet its recommendations and…
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Personal criminal liability for charity trustees - is this possible?
This week – 6 to 10 November - is Trustees’ Week, a time to celebrate the achievements of nearly one million trustees across the UK who give their time, and bring commitment, experience and expertise to charities to help…
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Just keep digging? Commodities and the energy transition
Within the energy transition debate, an area of particular contention is commodities – those who mine them, process them and ultimately use them in their products. It is widely understood that, with a transition of the…
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Investment Insights Q4 2023: Higher for longer
The inflationary shocks caused by the pandemic and war in Ukraine are finally unwinding. But the welcome fading of these shocks doesn’t mean that we’re returning to an environment just like the one before they hit.
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Charity Matters - Summer 2023: Laying sustainable foundations for your charity’s future.
Changes to our ways of working, combined with the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis and the urgent need for a more sustainable built environment, mean that many charities are re-evaluating their property…
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Embracing Cybersecurity in the Charity Sector
In today's digital age, charities are not immune to the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats. As stewards of donor trust and custodians of sensitive data, charities find themselves at the crossroads of…
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Sedulo Foundation Launch
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Charities Act 2022: What's Changed?
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When is an Independent Examination required?
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What are the key challenges facing charities who own direct real estate?
T he changing face of property management: Until a few years ago, the management of a property portfolio was relatively straightforward for charities. It was simple enough to collect the rent and manage the properties…
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On-demand webinar: Where to start with E.S.G. investment for your charity
Responsible investing is an evolving area for charities, but with an ever-increasing volume of information and limited time it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start. Increasingly, charity leaders want to know…
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Upfront: episode four
Financial journalist Cherry Reynard, investment specialist Claire Shaw, investment manager Matthew Brett and investment manager James Dow discuss private companies, the investment case for SoftBank and the Responsible…
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Castlefield In the News
Part of our role as the Thoughtful Investor ® involves raising awareness and speaking out about environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues that may be relevant to our clients. As a result, Castlefield Co-owners…
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Featured holding - ASML
Our featured stock stories help to illustrate how our active, sustainable investment approach works in practice. We recently welcomed new fund manager, James Buckley, to manage the Castlefield Sustainable European Fund…
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Castlefield Sustainability Review
As specialists in sustainable investment, we like to be able to substantiate how our funds make a positive difference. We're pleased to publish the first Castlefield Funds Sustainability Review – providing investors with…
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Beware the experts!
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What is a CIO and do I need one?
Beware the additional costs of outsourced investment services.
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Putting your charity on the map
This article was written for Action Planning by Dr Diego Arenas and Nicole Holgate of DataKind UK How mapping can improve your mission Maps are one of oldest and most instantly recognisable forms of data, used for…
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Entering the mineral age: can we mine sustainably?
Mining has historically been a dangerous, heavily polluting and environmentally damaging activity Thankfully, innovation in mining is offering solutions that could reduce its negative impacts We support the companies…
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How to write an incredible blog
Here we outline some of easy-to-follow steps for blog content. Blogs have evolved since the journal-type formats Millennials often think of . It’s not just about documenting an idea or event (although it can be). The top…
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Launch of the CCLA Corporate Mental Health Benchmark Global 100+
The CCLA Corporate Mental Health Benchmarks provide a window into how more than 200 of the world's largest listed companies approach and manage workplace mental health, based on their published information. Fully…
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Quarterly Investor Briefing – Webinar
CCLA invites you to a webinar covering: Highlights of economic and investment market developments CCLA multi-asset funds update: activity, positioning and performance Latest news on ESG factors and our stewardship…
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Artificial intelligence: addressing or distorting the modern slavery challenge?
With an estimated 50 million people worldwide in modern slavery 1 , the financial sector faces growing expectations and regulatory requirements to report, mitigate, prevent, and remediate modern slavery risks. However…
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Free Guide on HR & Health and Safety complaince checklist
We have put together a guide of some information needed to ensure you stay compliant in your buisnesses. click the link to down load the E-Book, if you would like a PDF comply please email [email protected]. I will then…
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The Property Income Trust for Charities 2023 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) Result
We are delighted to announce that the PITCH Fund has received its 2023 GRESB results, with PITCH gaining an additional “Green Star” from 2022, to achieve a four “Green Star” status. The Fund’s score has increased by over…
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Sustainable cities: Building for the future
By 2050, the cities of the world are expected to be home to more than two-thirds of the world’s population 1 and produce 85% of global economic output 2 . Although they occupy around only 2% of total land, cities are…
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Market Perspectives October 2023
Welcome to our October edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we examine how the recent surge in oil prices might affect the…
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Charities and businesses working together for mutual benefit: what this might look like
The idea of achieving purpose alongside profit has been part of the business world for centuries, but the importance placed on it has reached new heights in recent years with an increased focus on ESG (Environmental…
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Top tips for charity Chief Executives on board effectiveness
The Board of Trustees is fundamental to the success of any charitable organisation but keeping it running smoothly can be a challenge. Many things can sabotage board effectiveness: lack of direction, inexperience…
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Leading on cyber security culture
Charity leaders can play a critical role in shaping a secure culture. It's not just a matter for IT. Here's why it's essential for executives to actively champion cybersecurity efforts. 1. Leading by example Your actions…
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Charity Commission updated guidance
Latest guidance from the Charity Commission on investing charity money
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New Social Media Guidance for Charities
On 18 September 2023, the Charity Commission published its new guidance for charities on using social media . For the first time, this guidance sets out in one place what the Charity Commission expects charities to do in…
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Climate Confident: Charity investments and net zero
Cazenove Capital, in association with the Association of Charitable Foundations (ACF) , has published a report exploring charities’ climate commitments and investments. The report, titled Climate Confident: Charity…
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GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR ANNUAL REPORT FOR UK CHARITIES & NOT-FOR-PROFITS
Okay, so we all have to do an Annual Report. But, let's be real, it's not just about ticking off a checklist. Let’s make it a game-changer! What’s Your Report Chatting About? Charity Commission & Regulatory Bodies – The…
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Climate and energy scenarios: exploring risks and opportunities
We have modelled three climate and energy transition scenarios to inform our investments and help us communicate risks to clients and regulators We did so by considering ways the world could change and people with it…
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Bank of England hits the brakes
In a surprise move, the Bank of England (BoE) has decided to pause its recent run of rate rises, opting to keep the base rate on hold at 5.25%. It brings the curtain down on an historic hiking cycle, that had seen 14…
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Upfront: Episode Three
Financial journalist Cherry Reynard, intermediary client manager Megan Rooney, head of European equities Stephen Paice and investment manager Katherine Davidson discuss the case for emerging market bonds, fashion…
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Global Outlook Video - September 2023
Chief Investment Officer, William Dinning addresses one of the big questions the market is tackling at the moment: are we going to see recessions in the developed world, or will there be a 'soft landing'?
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LF WAVERTON CHARITY GROWTH & INCOME FUND
Charity Growth & Income Fund Factsheet, 31 August 2023
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All You Need to Know About Charities and Taxes in the UK
The UK has acknowledged that the symbiotic relationship between charities and the tax system is a means of encouraging charitable activities and supporting organisations that work for the public good. Discover how the UK…
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Why investors should heed this summer’s climate warnings
Key points As heatwaves, wildfires and other extreme weather events increasingly ravage the planet, what can investors do to be on the right side of climate change? Unfortunately, the frequency and severity of extreme…
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Market Perspectives September 2023
Welcome to our September edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look at what impact a peak in US interest rates, which seems…
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Christmas planning: plan like a church leader if you want to reach churches (1)
By Laura Treneer January may be the start of the calendar year, but for many church leaders the real launch month is September: new courses, new children’s group, new volunteers and hopefully new wind in the sails after…
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The key to harmonious strategy development
By Tim Jeffery Healthy, effective organisations have one vital thing in common: clarity of direction. Whilst the word ‘strategy’ gets used in different ways, the fundamental role of strategy is to set a clear direction…
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Charities – Top Five Tips For Successful Borrowing
Overview Borrowing money on a secured basis can be a normal part of running a successful charity. However, the legal documentation for these loans can be a bit overwhelming for some charities who do not enter into loans…
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Charities and risk management in an uncertain world
What key risks are involved in running a charity? There are risks involved in running any organisation, including a charity . While many suggest that their greatest risk is reputational, for risk identification to be…
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How to compare investment manager returns for charities
Despite the best efforts of the regulator, and warnings that ‘past performance is no guide to the future’, trustees continue to put recent strong performance front and centre when picking an investment manager.
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A Lasting Legacy
In this series, we examine the spectrum of mental health issues that impact will-making by those who are vulnerable and consider the extent to which the law in this area has stood the test of time in the face of an…
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Charity Trustee Law Update 2023
In our latest training session, Emma James, Associate from our Charity Team was joined by Alan Baker, Tom Rudkin and Sam TaIbot-Rice from our Data Protection and Reputation Management Teams to discuss recent Charity…
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Case study: Turning inspiring vision into practical steps
Background: BANG is a youth-focused organisation that encourages young people to become community leaders who will build sustainable communities, diverting vulnerable, at risk young people away from crime and negative…
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Beating FOMO at a conference: which seminar to choose?
With some major conferences coming up, Laura offers her tips for getting the most from the menu of speakers 1 Choose good speakers over favourite subjects: If they’re that good it’ll be worth hearing them whatever…
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Navigating strategic change: Striking the balance in nonprofit organisations
By Andrew Middleton Change, an undeniable force, shapes the journey of nonprofit organisations. While often a sign of progress, change for change's sake can be a perilous path. Nonprofits must tread carefully to avoid…
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Charity fundraising supply chains and ESG
“Who steals my purse steals trash; ’tis something, nothing; ’twas mine, ’tis his, and has been slave to thousands; But he that filches from me my good name Robs me of that which not enriches him, And makes me poor…
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A brief guide to charity insolvency (and how to prevent it)
Insolvency is a subject that most people tend to avoid. It’s no secret, however, that since the pandemic , charity finances have taken a hit. Even if your organisation is not in crisis mode, understanding the basics of…
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Philanthropy in Asia: The power of next gens
Whatever your chosen cause, there has arguably never been a more exciting time to be involved in philanthropy. As the world wakes up to the urgency of issues such as racial and health inequality, the possibilities for…
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Unlocking the secrets of sustainable growth: four signs that growth can endure
Key Points The best companies can compound earnings at a double digit rate for a decade or more. They deliver enduring growth Such businesses are rare and valuable, both to shareholders and to wider society The…
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Charity Commission updates CC14 guidance
The Charity Commission’s refreshed guidance on charities and investments (CC14) brings some much-needed clarity to the role of trustees when making investment decisions. Jeffrey Ball, one of our Charity Investment…
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Trustee training
As a trustee, ensuring good governance is essential to the ongoing success of your charity. Our free trustee training videos support you with just that, providing an essential overview of all elements of charity…
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Accounts for non-accountants
Being responsible for signing off your charity’s accounts can be daunting, especially if you’ve little experience reading or interpreting them. Our free Accounts for non-accountants session will help you know what to…
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Five questions for charities to ask about ethical investing
What charities should consider when planning to make ethical investments If you plan to make ethical investments (also known as responsible investments), the first step should be to revisit your charitable objectives and…
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Total Return for Permanently Endowed Charities (1)
F or permanently endowed charities, the challenge of creating sufficient income for today’s beneficiaries while also generating returns for future beneficiaries has been a challenge in the past decade. The total return…
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Developing effective Impact Investing partnerships (1)
There has been a subtle but insistent shift in the way a growing number of charities are looking to allocate their capital. We are finding an increasing recognition that investment should have purpose as well as generate…
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Five ways your investment process can go wrong (1)
Charity investors can give themselves a better chance of achieving stable, long-term returns by avoiding a number of common mistakes Even the best-laid portfolio plans can be derailed by financial market caprices, but…
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The essential CFO: revisiting the reserves policy
The pandemic exacerbated financial sustainability issues faced by charities. Many have already had to redefine their risk profile as a result of the last two years, and remodel how they hold and utilise reserves to…
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The essential CFO: aligning finance with strategy
Every charity needs a financial strategy, supported by well-documented, monitored and reviewed internal financial controls to enable them to operate day-to-day. But this shouldn’t be set out in isolation. Financial…
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How to finesse financial decision-making
Balancing investment, spend, and operations is a tough matter for financial teams. This is especially true given the cost-of-living crisis , staff churn , and unpredictable donation patterns. Good financial…
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Advancing Racial Equity
In this thematic piece, Castlefield's Eleanor Whalley discusses the ethnicity pay gap and how the scope of diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) strategies among investee firms is increasing to progress characteristics…
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2023 Social Impact Report
Charity Bank, the loans and savings bank for social good, is proud to unveil its 2023 Social Impact Report. The report showcases the remarkable achievements and transformative impact of Charity Bank's loans on UK…
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Bank of England slows hiking pace
The Bank of England (BoE) has announced a 14th consecutive rate rise, taking the base rate to a 15-year high of 5.25%. The decision heaps more pain on borrowers in an already difficult year, but there are at least signs…
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Market Update- August 2023
Investors are growing increasingly optimistic about a soft landing. READ MORE
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Updated Charity Investment Guidance for trustees
After a number of years of consultation, a court case and various delays the Charity Commission for England and Wales have today published updated investment guidance. Read our main takeaways here.
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The essential guide to the company secretary role for charities
The company secretary role is key to ensuring good governance in any sized charity. The fundamental governance responsibilities are often shared between the company secretary, governance officer, CEO or finance director…
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Remote working in the not-for-profit sector
What are the benefits and challenges of remote working in the charity and not-for-profit sector? We know that many charities have moved to remote or hybrid working in recent years. Remote working can be really beneficial…
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Getting in shape for 2023 - a webinar for charities
The start of a year is a good time to take stock, at a time of real uncertainty for many charities. In this webinar a panel from our charity and social business team will give an update on recent legal and regulatory…
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Incorporating a sports club
Amateur sports clubs come in all shapes and sizes. Your club might be a community amateur sports club (CASC), a charity, or have no special status. It also might be an unincorporated association, a company or charitable…
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Charity law bulletin - March 2023
Our charity law bulletin, edited by Chris Rowse and Alison Sadler , provides a round-up of recent developments in charity law.
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Russell-Cooke sponsors Getting On Board’s new Trustee Learning Programme
Russell-Cooke’s charity and social business team has entered into a sponsorship agreement with Getting On Board, a trustee recruitment and diversity charity seeking to widen access to trusteeships, focusing primarily on…
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Data protection changes on the horizon – positive news for charities
News of further planned changes to UK data protection laws might not sound like welcome news for charities. Most charities spent a significant amount of time and effort getting ready for the introduction of the GDPR in…
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Charities Act 2022: what you need to know about the new provisions
The Charities Act 2022 is coming into force in stages. The latest set of provisions came into force on 14 June 2023. The changes are most relevant for charities that wish to dispose of land or spend a permanent…
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Crypto philanthropy: are charities missing a crypto trick?
Many thought cryptocurrencies would be a flash in the pan. However, over 10 years on, crypto is still dominating our headlines and increasingly, our financial markets. With the value of the crypto market estimated to be…
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Charity law bulletin - July 2023
Our latest charity law bulletin, edited by Chris Rowse and Alison Sadler , provides a round-up of recent developments in charity law. We also examine the recent changes introduced by the Charities Act 2022 and upcoming…
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Charity Perspective Summer 2023
With summer upon us, our thoughts and aspirations have turned to positive developments for charities, third-sector organisations and institutions across the country. Our eight regional hubs have been reporting a…
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Foregoing the fundraising: How can charities harness the power of marketing to increase their unrestricted revenue? (1)
As funding is squeezed ever tighter and charitable giving is under increasing pressure, Marketing Consultant, Ned Wells, examines how and why trading charities should build a solid marketing strategy to increase their…
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Positive Change Impact Report
If you wanted to change the world for the better, how would you do it? And then, how would you know if you were succeeding in your aim? Because you would have to measure your impact to be sure of the difference you were…
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Practical steps for keeping your capital appeal spirits high
This week I’ve spoken with two church pastors who are struggling to raise the funds they need for their church building projects. Both are relatively small projects (sub-£500k). Both have planning permission and are keen…
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Charity partner – how to make the most of other people’s events
By Tim Glynne-Jones If you watched Glastonbury, the thought may have crossed your mind, “Wouldn’t it be great to be Greenpeace, or WaterAid, or Oxfam?” – one of the festival’s three charity partners. All those people!…
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Leadership and the dangers of hubris
By Kate Nicholas What do Achilles, Odysseus and Icarus (plus some contemporary political leaders) have in common? I am sure it’s possible to come up with a whole list of possibilities, but their most dangerous common…
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Analysing digital performance – tips for small charities
By Laura Treneer Small charities tend to have a healthy respect for digital communications. If you’re small, you know you need to punch above your weight, and you know that the right digital tools can enable you to do…
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The lonely HR - Who’s looking after the person who looks after everyone else?
By Shelley Poole Workplace isolation is a hot topic in HR circles. As I write, it is Loneliness Awareness Week (12th-18th June 2023), so the questions will be high on everybody’s agenda. How is remote working affecting…
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Kingdom KPIs – What the Bible tells us about measuring success
By Kate Nicholas One of the most important parts of strategy development is the identification of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), against which we can measure our success. As management consultant Peter Drucker…
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New personas for UK evangelical Christians
By Laura Treneer Anyone who works in communications will know that before you can really connect with your audience, you need to understand who they are. Enter the world of personas – personality profiles that inform the…
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The art of attracting a Royal patron: tips and strategies for success
By Andrew Middleton Gaining royal patronage can be a game-changer for a charity, bringing attention to its cause and providing a sense of credibility that can open doors and attract support. Having worked with two…
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The ultimate guide to working with Royal Patrons – Top tips for maximising the benefits, navigating the protocols and avoiding common pitfalls
By Jean Collingwood I’ve had the honour and pleasure of working with Royal Patrons throughout my career as a charity leader for different causes. I still remember my first meeting with each of them: the time of day and…
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5 common philanthropy myths
If you have the resources and motivation to do so, supporting the causes you care about can be one of the greatest privileges of wealth. But despite its ample rewards, modern philanthropy is surrounded by myths and…
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Market Perspectives March 2023
Welcome to our March edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF at the bottom of this page. In our regular chapters…
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Market Perspectives April 2023
Welcome to the April edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF at the bottom of this page. In our regular chapters…
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Market Perspectives May 2023
Welcome to our May edition of “Market Perspectives”, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In our regular chapters below, we look into the longer-term impact on financial markets of the…
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Charities legal and regulatory preview
Charity legal and regulatory preview: Skating to where the puck is going to be Before people packed up their buckets and spades and headed to the beaches on 12 July we ran a bite-size lunchtime webinar looking forward to…
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Upfront: Episode Two
Financial journalist Cherry Reynard, intermediary client manager David Rolland, investment specialist Claire Shaw and investment manager Gary Robinson discuss the current investment landscape, EV battery maker Northvolt…
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Latitude Charities Flyer
Download Latitude for Charities - May 2024.pdf
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Global Equity Webinar
Freddie Lait outlines how our investment approach operates throughout market cycles and explains why our strategy is particularly attractive in the current environment Password: Webinar2024
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Managing reputational risks
As a charity leader, you know how important your organisation's reputation is. Unfortunately, reputational risks threaten charities just as much as any other organisation. They can occur as a result of: Financial errors…
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Charity Times Roundtable in partnership with Swiss Life Asset Managers UK, Future-proofing property
Charity Times, in partnership with Swiss Life Asset Managers UK (formerly Mayfair Capital), hosted a roundtable to discuss the challenging environment of real estate investments for charities and endowments and how to…
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How Can Charities Implement A Better Finance Function?
Are you fed up with jumbled-up bookkeeping for your finance? Chasing outstanding and missing pieces of paperwork? Managing endless spreadsheets with a lot of missing parts? We get it. That’s why we work with small and…
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Mission aligning?
There are thousands of charities across the UK helping to promote worthy causes or solve social injustices, and for many, investing is a fundamental way to ensure they can achieve their key objectives. However, it can be…
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Using benchmarks for charity investment portfolios
Understanding the main types of charity investment benchmarks and how charities can effectively use them. The uses of benchmarks are frequently misunderstood and terms are often mixed up leading to widespread confusion…
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Mid-Year Outlook 2023
Welcome to our “Mid-Year Outlook”, the investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank. In this edition, we explore the possibility of the world’s leading economies entering into recession later this year. And…
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Swiss Life Asset Managers UK is proud to announce the launch of the ‘Empowering Places’ UK social value strategy and community fund
Swiss Life Asset Managers UK is proud to announce the launch of the ‘Empowering Places ’ UK social value strategy and community fund, in partnership with our charity fund, the Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH)…
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Charities Act 2022 - New provisions June 2023
Following implementation of the first tranche of provisions of the Charities Act 2022 on 31 October 2022, the eagerly awaited second tranche of provisions came into force on 14 June 2023. Charities will welcome in…
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Investment consultants or Investment Managers
The Charity Commission’s guidance says that “Trustees must take advice from someone experienced in investment matters where they consider they need it”. But that is easier said than done. How often do Trustees ‘consider’…
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Upfront: episode one
Financial journalist Cherry Reynard, Intermediary Client Manager Megan Rooney, and Investment Managers Julia Angeles and Steven Hay discuss AI, Moderna’s mRNA technology and the Baillie Gifford Managed Fund.
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Actual investing: why thinking differently matters
Key Points The Actual investing message remains sound, Despite recent market upheaval according to Baillie Gifford partner Stuart Dunbar. Reflecting on higher interest rates and inflation, Dunbar looks at prospects for…
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ESG investing can drive resilience longevity and growth
Writing in Civil Society Media, James Dow discusses the top three things charitable organisations should consider when it comes to sustainable investing.
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Why choose Bondsmith Treasury?
At Bondsmith Treasury, we specialise in cash deposits, serving as the leading Independent Deposit Specialist in the UK. With over a decade of experience and a vast network, we have facilitated over £18 billion in cash…
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Top ten tips when dealing with property
For charities, owning or occupying property can be a key asset. However, making a bad decision with property, or failing to fully understand your property portfolio, can have a negative impact on your operations and…
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Charities: don’t forget the ‘G’ for ‘Governance’
Good governance counts because without it a charity’s impact can be much diminished, but it is also important not to be overwhelmed by all the detail and to focus on what matters. There is a lot of guidance on governance…
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The Charity Commission must close the investment guidance gap
There has been a groundswell of public opinion in recent years for sustainable change, driven by passionate calls from high-profile activists such as Greta Thunberg and Sir David Attenborough, while the pandemic arguably…
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6 steps to developing a business continuity plan for your charity
To protect your not-for-profit from unavoidable interruptions, it’s important to have an effective business continuity plan (BCP) in place. At a glance, this should serve the following purposes: To protect employees…
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Charities Law Brief June23
Update on the Implementation of the Charities Act 2022 The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has announced that the second tranche of provisions of the Charities Act 2022 , which were due to be implemented in…
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Life Planning in a Modern Digital World: A Necessity for the 21st Century
In the digital age, individuals manage multiple dimensions of their lives online, from social media accounts and email services to financial investments and online shopping. As our lives become increasingly digitized…
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The problem with numbers
Numbers are not too difficult and having financial confidence is the hallmark of a successful charity.
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LF Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund - Q1 2023 Update (on demand webinar)
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Writing & Reviewing your Charity's Investment Policy
Whether you are considering investing for the first time or due to undertake a review of your existing investment policy, this article sets out some key things to take into consideration when writing and reviewing your…
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Investing your Charity's Money for the Frist Time
We know that investing for a financial return in not a simple or quick decision for many charities. This guide will take you through the following key considerations: 1. RULES & REGULATION 2. UNDERSTANDING RISK 3…
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Writing an Ethical Investment Policy (1)
A charity’s ethical investment policy should sit within, and form a part of, the wider investment policy. With new generations of trustees joining the ranks and an increased spotlight on ethical investing, continued…
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Swiss Life Asset Managers signals UK expansion plans with Mayfair Capital rebrand
Mayfair Capital Investment Management Limited, the specialist UK real estate investment arm of Swiss Life Asset Managers, has rebranded as Swiss Life Asset Managers UK. The rebranding follows the acquisition of Mayfair…
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Barts Charity appoints Mayfair Capital as Property Adviser, March 2023
Mayfair Capital have been formally appointed by Barts Charity as strategic property adviser to its c.£75m directly held property portfolio. The appointment will see Mayfair Capital provide a fully integrated strategic…
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PITCH receives Living Wage accreditation
Following the work undertaken last year to review our PITCH suppliers, I am very pleased to share that we have received our Living Wage accreditation. PITCH can now also be found on the website under the Living Wage…
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PITCH Announces Net Zero Carbon Commitment and Interim Target
We are pleased to announce our latest Net Zero Carbon commitment for Mayfair Capital’s, Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH). The Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH) is committed to the goal of limiting…
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Charity land disposals: new law is coming into force
The Charities Act 2022 is being introduced in phases. From June 2023 trustees will have greater flexibility over how they procure advice to ensure the terms on which they dispose of a charity’s interests in land are the…
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How to communicate organisational change
Clear communication is vital when letting staff know about changes happening in your charity. From a new leadership team to merging with another charity, it’s important to communicate organisational change well. This is…
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Why does ESG matter to charities?
Why is ESG of importance to charities when they already make such a positive difference to society? Because there is still much to be done about how charities undertake their valuable work, and many do not yet…
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Rising Interest Rates - What happens next?
Download Insight_Interest_Rates.pdf
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Appreciative Inquiry: a positive approach to problem solving
By Simon Claridge Problem solving is an important attribute for any charity leader, or indeed consultant. Historically, however, and with the best intentions, the tendency has been to tackle problems in a formulaic…
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Leading for the long haul – valuable lessons learned in life
By Joy Gascoigne Leadership expert John C Maxwell defines leadership as “influence, nothing more, nothing less”, but influencers are also influenced. For leaders of small charities in the post-pandemic world, there are…
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How can small charities create bigger impact?
By Kathryn Slack Impact can be a little Marmite: some embrace it as the core of everything they do; others push it away as a vague concept they find difficult to define. If you’re the latter, it may be time to think…
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Fundraising review - is it time well spent?
By Emma Goulds If you’re in the throws of leading a charity or social enterprise, it can feel hard to justify carving out the space to pause and review your fundraising strategy or toolkit. After all, it would mean…
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The AI debate – Could ChatGPT be the extra resource your charity needs?
By Laura Treneer Unless your head has been buried far too far into your inbox for the last few months, you won’t have escaped the race going on among AI companies and commentators talking about how their tech will change…
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Why Charities should take Cyber Risk seriously in 2023 and beyond
In short, Cyber Risk is the risk all organizations face today from cyber criminals, opportunists or ‘bad actors’ when they are connected to the internet. Virtually every single organization today is connected to the…
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Positive Conversations 2022
Key Points Responsible business practices help deliver sustainable long-term growth and address global challenges This report details the type of discussions we have with companies about their business practices From our…
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Renewables: why the energy transition may be faster than you expect
Key Points The cost of renewable technologies could fall faster than many influential models suggest, according to new research Lower prices should accelerate adoption, leading to a steep drop in carbon emissions The…
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Climeworks: leading the way on permanent carbon removal
Key Points Often Baillie Gifford’s investments are so compelling we use their products ourselves One of which is Climeworks. It is pioneering a technology to remove carbon from the atmosphere To meet the global climate…
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From Covid to cancer: Moderna’s new challenge
Key Points Moderna's mRNA technology allows scientists to write and deliver instructions to cells to produce disease-reducing properties Having proved itself against Covid, the company is developing multiple mRNA…
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Stone King’s Julian Blake joins influential advisory panel
Julian, a Partner in Stone King’s Charity team, is delighted to have been invited to join the VCSE Crown Representative’s Advisory Panel. Convened by Claire Dove CBE, the VCSE Crown Representative, the Panel brings…
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To spend or not to spend - a charity's question
When we’re talking about adaptability in the charity sector, our first thought is naturally of the COVID-19 pandemic, an era-defining event, and the cause of unprecedented change for almost every organization. While…
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How can charities face 2023’s financial hurdles?
How can charities face 2023’s financial hurdles? The job of finance professionals in the charity sector can be a complex one involving accounting for multiple income streams and reporting back to multiple stakeholders…
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Ramadan - What Are Some of the Key Considerations for Charities and Employers?
This year Ramadan started on the 23 March 2023 and is observed by over 1 billion Muslims across the world as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. During the month of Ramadan, many Muslims fast for 30…
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The Emperor's New Clothes
Helping charities with investments is more than choosing the correct assets or manager. It is understanding how a charity works, how it uses its assets, and its dynamics and stresses.
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Q1 Market Insight
At the end of the first quarter of the year, Guy Foster, our Chief Strategist, looks back at the events that have shaped the markets over the past three months. Download Insight_Q1_2023_Quarterly_Review.pdf
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Whistleblowing in charities: legislative change may be on the horizon - but get the basics right now
Facilitating whistleblowing and supporting those who do raise concerns is a very important health check for charities, who are judged not just on the basis of what they do, but also how they do it, and who need to remain…
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Market Update April 2023
Recent banking sector stress has clouded the outlook for monetary policy. Read more
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Market Update March 2023
MARKET UPDATE MARCH 2023 The key headlines from this month’s update • Major economies’ resilience continues – but recession risk remains • Markets steady as monetary tightening slows • Investors reassured by containment…
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Where legal meets moral - considering the status of ex gratia payments
We consider the current charity law position in relation to ex gratia payments and proposed changes under the Charities Act 2022. What is an ex gratia payment? An ex gratia payment occurs where:- Charity trustees believe…
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How does the banking crisis impact the market outlook in 2023?
Although markets appear to have regained some composure, it has been an unsettling period for investors. The spectre of a systemic banking crisis has created significant volatility in equity and bond markets in the wake…
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How to Align Your Personal and Organisation Goals
Knowing how to set organisation goals and align them with personal goals can increase productivity, impact, and employee motivation. Organisation goals don’t always have to reflect the personal goals of the employees…
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Why safeguarding could ensure your charity's future
Safeguarding was a relatively unknown topic a few years ago, barely mentioned outside of children’s and elderly charities. Now it is a topic that raises concern and attention within not-for-profit board rooms not only…
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Brevity is the soul of wit
How clever people can express intelligent things using very few words.
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Understanding cyber insurance
One of the most significant emerging threats to your organisation is cyber attacks. 30% of charities said they identified a cyber attack in the last 12 months (Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2022). Cyber attacks can…
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Inside the mind of an investment manager
By Mark Hinds Branch Manager & Investment Manager, Charles Stanley Norwich It already feels like we are overwhelmed with change. A pandemic, Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, The Queen’s passing, two new Prime Ministers…
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Climate change: how charities can transition to net zero
Charities have a big part to play in helping the UK reach Net Zero by 2050. In this article, we share tips and advice on how charities can lower their carbon footprint. The UK Government’s Net Zero Strategy: Build Back…
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7 Tips to Make Managing Expenses Easier
Managing your expenses is tremendously important for ensuring that your small business stays profitable and flush with cash. It’s important to keep a very close eye on your expenses to ensure that you stay within budget…
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Protecting your trustees and senior leaders
Did you know that senior management, directors and trustees can all be held personally liable? In fact, claims can be brought against your organisation and individuals for a range of reasons including: Actual instances…
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Investing for Global Impact
We’re delighted to unveil the ninth edition of the ‘Investing for Global Impact: A Power for Good’ report. Developed by Campden Wealth, in partnership with Barclays Private Bank and Global Impact Solutions Today (GIST)…
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Market Perspectives February 2023
Welcome to our first edition of “Market Perspectives” for 2023, the monthly investment strategy update from Barclays Private Bank, which is also available to download as a PDF at the bottom of this page. Equity markets…
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What are the steps for closing down a charity?
When making the decision to close down a charity, trustees should understand the formal process involved, including potential costs, and be aware of any liability risks along the way. The closing down process will vary…
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Whistleblowing in charities: why it is so important – right now
Blowing a whistle remains the most effective means of being heard above the crowd and drawing attention to an issue. Speaking up can help charities to do their work even better. The relevance of whistleblowing to…
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Actual ESG
Partner Stuart Dunbar visits a vertical farm to explore how our thinking about environmental, social and governance factors helps us back great growth companies to tackle big problems
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Our Investment Stewardship Activities
This report, based on the 12 UK Stewardship Code Principles, sets out Baillie Gifford’s stewardship approach, highlighting some of the key activities and improvements made over the course of the year. As at 31 December…
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Positive Change Impact Report. 5th Year. 2021/2022
This report marks five years of the Positive Change investment strategy. Once again, 2021 has been another tumultuous year. The global pandemic has dragged on, with its disruptive effects compounded by geopolitical…
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Baillie Gifford: our NZAMi commitments
Key Points Baillie Gifford announces its first set of Net Zero Asset Managers initiative targets and portfolio commitments They focus on the increasing alignment of companies with net zero goals over time These targets…
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What is the true state of the UK economy?
Guy Foster, our Chief Strategist, looks beyond the headlines to understand what is happening in the UK at the moment, and what it means for investment portfolios. Download Insight_UK_economy.pdf
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Improving air quality and health through community action
By Amy Coyne Communications Manager, Sustainable Merton Sustainability and wellbeing go hand-in-hand, so our initiatives pair environmental and social goals, such as reducing social isolation, improving mental and…
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Social Media: Guidance for Charities
If we needed any demonstration of the difficulties inherent in regulating or managing online content, then we need to look no further than the troubled passage of the Online Safety Bill through Parliament. In its quest…
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A bit about Castlefield (video)
In this video Founder John Eckersley introduces Castlefield and explains about our purpose and how we help clients (and our team) to achieve their personal goals. He also explains the core values, present throughout…
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Visible sustainability – IBA – innovation plus impact can help our failing health system.
In this stock feature, Castlefield Fund Manager Rory Hammerson examines Belgian listed Ion Beam Applications (IBA). Held in our Sustainable European Fund, IBA is involved in treating cancer in sensitive areas such as the…
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Charity law in Scotland – a 2023 update
Charity law in Scotland is due for an update Turning the clock back two decades or so, in the early years of the new Scottish Parliament one of the areas of law to receive comprehensive attention was Scots charity law…
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Tax issues hit cross-border charity legacies post Brexit
While the UK was in the EU, charities enjoyed the same tax concessions as charities in the jurisdiction in which the foreign tax was levied. Post Brexit, the position is now much less clear. Click to read more.
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Charities and Fundraising: An Update
Charity law experts Stone King LLP were delighted to host a webinar on 26 January 2023, bringing together experts from the Fundraising Regulator, Buzzacott and Stone King to review recent fundraising themes and…
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Market Update February 2023
Markets are increasingly anticipating that inflation can be tamed with only a mild slowdown. That may be over-optimistic. Read more THIS MONTHS HIGHLIGHTS As inflation starts to cool, where next for markets? Our Chief…
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Climate change: take our climate change survey
Our new survey aims to help us understand the current state of environmental sustainability in the charity sector and help us find new solutions to climate change
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Find it, Fix It, Prevent It
Despite the fact that slavery is illegal, it is estimated that today 50 million people find themselves in some form of modern slavery or human trafficking. Hear from Martin Buttle, Better Work Lead at CCLA, on how CCLA…
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LF Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund - Q4 2022 Update (on demand webinar)
Watch our latest webinar on the LF Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund.
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Market Perspectives January 2023
Read our latest outlook on interest rates/bonds and equities.
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Charity Matters January 2023
Welcome to Charity Matters RSM'S UPDATE FOR THE CHARITY SECTOR Some boards (both corporate and charity) are prone to operating in a repetitive fashion - meeting at regular intervals and dealing with similar routine…
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What is ESG?
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors are non-financial considerations that inform investment decisions based on an assessment of the risks these factors pose to investments. ESG is not only about what a…
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What Bill Gates needs to know about preventing the next pandemic
By Ellie Parravani External Affairs team, Brooke One Health is a concept that recognises that the health of people, animals and the wider environment are deeply connected. But I was left disappointed. The book misses…
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Next generation philanthropy
With trillions of dollars of family wealth expected to transfer across generations in the coming decades, next generation philanthropy is a hot topic, and one that is already challenging traditional ways of giving. In…
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Four ways inflation will affect your charity
Below we cover some of the most important things your charity needs to know in an era of high inflation. Inflation can play havoc with your charity’s finances in many different ways. Some – like rising energy bills and…
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FJ Philanthropy expands to London and doubles in size with two new strategic appointments
Download Dee (L) Kim (R).jpg The award-winning specialist management consultancy, FJ Philanthropy is delighted to announce the appointment of Dee Brecker and Kim Shann, and its expansion to London. Dee and Kim bring a…
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Barclays' commitment to tackling climate change together
Our climate strategy is informed by our purpose: we deploy finance responsibly to support people and businesses, acting with empathy and integrity, championing innovation and sustainability, for the common good and the…
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2022 Sustainable Portfolio Management Report
Welcome to our Sustainable Portfolio Management Annual Report 2022. Sustainability challenges are increasingly capturing the world’s attention, as the COVID-19 pandemic, deepening climate crisis, and more recently…
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Barclays Private Bank - Global Outlook 2023
Welcome to our annual Outlook publication, entitled ‘A rebalancing act’ in recognition of the multi-faceted global transition currently underway. Amid much uncertainty, bond yields are zooming up, as central banks hike…
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An investment fund for charities with sustainability at its heart
Investment landscape
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Investing in the energy transition
Renewable energy
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Investing to feed the world
Food security
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The year ahead – economic recession, market recovery
Amid one of the most widely anticipated recessions ever, Ben Funnell, Head of Investment Solutions at CCLA, finds some rays of hope in the year ahead.
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Castlefield receives Good Business Charter accreditation
Castlefield is proud to be accredited by the Good Business Charter (GBC) following our application to join in 2022. The GBC is an initiative of the Good Business Foundation, a non-profit making charity organisation…
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Common grounds - The story behind our sustainable coffee producer
In this blog, Castlefield Investment team member Eleanor Walley explores the ethical credentials of Castlefield's chosen coffee blend from Daterra - a coffee farm leading the way with its sustainable ethos. Like many…
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Enhancing Reputation Through a Charity's Investment Portfolio
The Charity Finance Group published the following article in November 2022. You can view this on their website here . Charities once led the way in ethical investment. So, where are they now? PMCL's Ed Jewson shares his…
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How Alternative are Alternative Investments?
Charity Finance convened a panel of experts (including PMCL's Tatyana Mursalimov) to discuss the role of alternative investments in the current economic climate. Ian Allsop reports on the conversation. It has long been…
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The Fifth Anniversary of PMCL - Reflections of Edward Jewson
This is the third article in the series Reflections on the past three decades of charity investing by Edward Jewson, founder and CEO of PMCL Consulting. September 2022 is the fifth anniversary of the launching of PMCL…
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Industry consultation
CCLA is undertaking a survey of the not-for-profit sector. We want your views on the issues that are most critical to your investment goals, your expectations of your investment manager for supporting your goals and the…
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3 ways to align your charitable culture with selling services
Action Planning Associate Ned Wells works with charities to help them raise funds through selling their services and expertise. In this talk he addresses the cultural challenges that charities face when talking about ‘…
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Charity reviews – how to spot a good one
By Felicia Willow, Action Planning Associate Consultant I spend quite a bit of my time doing reviews. I do organisational strength reviews, governance reviews, crisis reviews and structure reviews, to mention a few. As…
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A 2022 Christmas Message
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Not Sure Which Not-For-Profit Legal Structure to Choose?
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The Importance of Managing Conflict of Interests in Charities
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Valuable Resources for Small Charities
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Charity Investment Forum: watch the replay
With the threat of recession and social inequality on the rise, the challenge of growth for charities has never been a more important topic. At this year’s Charity Investment Forum, experts shared their views on how this…
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Flexible working update
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EAT rules on redundancy consultation
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Immigration update changes to a workers start date
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Tips to help employers minimise GDPR breach
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What happens when an employee doesn't want to be reinstated after an appeal?
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The office Christmas party advice for employers
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ACAS publishes new guidance on employee suspensions
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Sponsor licences for skilled workers
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Holiday pay for part year workers - what does it mean for employers?
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What can happen if you lie on a cv
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Update on covid-related disability
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Changes to right to work checks post October 2022
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What is the scale up visa
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A little gift from me to you
I’m gifting you some time! Since August, time seems to have taken on a life of its own, everyone I have spoken to recently says they have no time. With this in mind I have a little Christmas gift for you, the gift of…
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THE CHARITY FRAUD REPORT 2022: IS THE RISK OF FRAUD INCREASING IN THE CHARITY SECTOR?
Today, alongside the Fraud Advisory Panel, we launch the Charity Fraud Report 2022 – the findings from our annual survey into fraud within the charity sector. In this year’s report, we offer a snapshot view of how some…
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Newsletter December 2022
Read our latest newsletter HERE
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Social capital - reporting and measuring
For trustees, social investment offers an opportunity to align a charity’s investment strategy with its charitable goals. Bringing about social change, from alleviating poverty to tackling discrimination to preventing…
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Castlefield Insights Winter 2022
Welcome to the final Castlefield Insights quarterly newsletter of 2022. Within this last issue of 2022 we cover a number of ‘big events’ – from the UN’s recent climate conference COP27 and the women’s success at the…
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Charities Law Brief December 2022
Charities, Trade Marks and the Metaverse Paula Williams discusses what opportunities and potential threats the Metaverse could offer charities ... read more > Charity Commission Probes Charity Accounts and Record in…
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The meaning of charity at Christmas
We explore what compels people to donate during the festive season and how charities can replicate that good will in future fundraising. The Oxford English Dictionary defines charity as: ‘the voluntary giving of money or…
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What could 2023 have in store for investors?
After a challenging year for financial markets, we look ahead at what the next 12 months could have in store for investors. Download Insight_Investment Outlook 2023.pdf
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Directors’ duties prior to insolvency: the creditor duty
The general rule of thumb is that directors owe their duties to act in the interests of the company and its members as a whole or, where the company has a purpose other than the benefit of its members, the duty is to act…
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What will happen to charities that had Queen Elizabeth II as their patron
The Queen inherited and took on hundreds of patronages of charitable organisations during her long reign. There is no guarantee that all of these will pass to King Charles III, leaving a large number of charities in…
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Stone King 2022 Advent Series
National law firm Stone King is delighted to offer a 2022 Advent Series of webinars aimed specifically at faith-based charities. Each Wednesday during Advent experts from the leading charity law firm will review some of…
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ESG strategy for Social Purpose and Non Profit organisations
Social purpose and non profit organisations hold themselves to high ethical standards and are often held to a higher standard than other sectors by the general public. As expectations and regulations change worldwide and…
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Autumn Statement 2022 | Our partners respond
Autumn Statement 2022 The Chancellor kept the Conservative Party Manifesto commitment not to increase rates of Income Tax, National Insurance Contributions or VAT but the following changes were announced Headline changes…
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Legacy Income - 10 Top Tips
Maximising your charity’s legacy income: 10 top tips Does your charity receive legacy income from gifts in wills? If so, ensuring it receives its full entitlement in an appropriate and timely manner is paramount. Legacy…
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Are your line managers confident in dealing with employment issues?
Managers are often expected to deal with HR and employment issues without any training. Support and up-skill them using our HR & EMPLOYMENT LAW FOR MANAGERS eLEARNING which they can easily refer back to when issues…
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Charity Sector Cost Of Living Crisis - Latest Monthly Update And Forecast Of The Impact On Charities
Key Factors - The Cost of Living Crisis Is Very Different To Covid Our predictive model is based on our Covid data, but is forecasting a much deeper and longer impact, and that which charities will be most impacted will…
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What's driving up insurance costs in 2022?
Organisations will face a higher insurance premium increase this year if they insure buildings or contents. The reason for this is claims inflation, caused by the rise in rebuilding and replacement costs, which have…
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Hours of training for charity trustees
Since March 2020 Stone King has delivered online training for thousands of charity trustees. The firm’s Charity Essentials programme provides free, regular online training to equip trustees and senior management teams…
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What do charities need to know about conservation covenants?
The Environment Act 2021 set out to provide a governance framework to support the delivery of national environmental targets and received Royal Assent in November 2021. Part of its implementation includes the…
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Better information for all charity trustees in order to drive better decision-making
With great power comes great responsibility. " This advice given to a young Peter Parker by his uncle is a pithy summary of a charity trustee’s lot: like Spider-Man, charity boards are there to make a positive…
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Jargon Buster
Jargon busters Accountants are known for using jargon that many people need to look up in a dictionary before they can reply. Here is some that are used often and you will come across in charity accounts that have been…
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Common Questions Asked By Charities
Common questions Here are answers to some most common questions that I have been asked by charities. Like, does our charity need an audit? What should we include in our annual report? And also, when are our accounts due?…
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12 Days of Giving
12 Days of Giving is our festive final phase of Movement for Good 2022 . In December, we’ll be giving 120 charities £1,000 each over 12 days. The first draw takes place on December 1st and the last on December 16th with…
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Newsletter November 2022
t’s time for Trustees Week 2022 and so we caught up with three members of our team to ask them what they get out of being a charity trustee. We also look back at Charity Accountants’ Conference 2022 and have all your…
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Charity Essentials - November 2022
Read Stone King's latest Charity Essentials Newsletter HERE . Stone King is a leading law firm in the Charity sector. Our work with charities is at the heart of our practice and we’re proud to be national leaders in the…
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Royal patronage – how and why should charities apply?
The Queen was patron of 433 charitable organisations at her passing a reflection of the duty and commitment that she embodied throughout her reign. There's no doubt that having her as a patron had a significant and…
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Charity insight and investment outlook November 2022
Why the S in ESG? The case for managing the environmental impact of the companies in which we invest is clear. We are in the middle of a climate emergency that requires immediate and drastic action. Increasingly…
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Workplace wellbeing
Everyone has a responsibility to protect the mental health of our society, including ourselves, and of our local communities. During the pandemic, 9 in 10 charity workers said they felt stressed, overwhelmed or burnt out…
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Does what matters get measured?
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Mayfair Capital buys £40m Bristol office in larger asset push
We are pleased to announce the recent purchase of The Paragon office building in Bristol on behalf of Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH). This £40m off-market deal is the fund's largest to date and reflects a…
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Charity Times Awards 2022
Charity Times Awards 2022 We are delighted to announce that our charity fund, The Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH), won the Boutique Investment Management Award at the Charity Times Awards in September. Well…
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Mayfair Capital Investment Management 2022 GRESB results
We are pleased to announce that The PITCH Fund received its 2022 GRESB results in October, where PITCH maintained its 3 “Green Star” status, achieving a score of 75 out of 100. This year the Fund was placed in a larger…
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Monthly Factsheets
Please click Read More button below for a link to the factsheets on our website.
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Charities Act 2022 – the first set of changes comes into force
The first of three tranches of refinements to the Charities Act 2011 has come into force today, 31 October 2022. All the changes – with the rest hopefully to come into force in Spring and then in Autumn 2023 – are…
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Five steps for boards to optimise social impact
Delivering positive social impact is what all social ventures are focused on achieving – but it won't happen unless you are clear on the basics of what you are aiming to change, who you want to support, how much impact…
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Our Market Perspectives - October 2022
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LF Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund - Q3 2022 Update (on demand webinar)
Q3 2022 Waverton Charity Growth and Income Fund Update - Waverton
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Charities and ESG
ESG is about doing good. So surely all charities are on top of ESG matters? By definition charities are institutions that advance exclusively charitable purposes – all good stuff like advancing education, relieving…
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Meeting an MP? The one question you must be ready for
By Claire Mathys Any change of Government or Prime Minister brings with it new faces for campaigning organisations to meet and win over. It’s vital that you grasp the opportunity and make a strong first impression…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 20, The changing face of global mobility
Andy Graham chats to special guests Emma Morgan (partner in the Shoosmiths employment team) and Davyd Fisher (Tax Director at Grant Thornton UK LLP) about global mobility, in episode 20 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast. The…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 19, Trade union communication strategies
In a week in which industrial relations are once again in the headlines, with University staff intending to take strike action across the UK, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Leech are joined by special guest…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 18, Supporting employees experiencing domestic violence
Episode 18 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast sees Andy Graham chats to special guests Peter Morris (Partner in the Shoosmiths family team) and Mahdiya Malik (HR and CSR Manager at Vaultex) about Vaultex's recent introduction…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 17, Menopause in the workplace
In episode 17 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss menopause in the workplace and how employers can support. This episode covers: Why it is important for…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 16, Conduct outside of work
In episode 16 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech consider when conduct outside the workplace becomes an employer’s issue. This episode covers: When conduct outside…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 15, How to make hybrid working work
In episode 15 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss what hybrid working is and why this option will be of interest to employers going forward. This episode…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 14, Artificial intelligence and HR – the revolution?
In episode 14 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss the revolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in HR. This episode covers: How can AI support HR? How can…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 13, The importance of using occupational health
In episode 13 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech talk about why occupational health is an important tool for employers. This episode covers: Why employers should…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 10 - Data security
Episode 10 of our Journey Through a Contract sees Anushree Som and William Moore look at Data Security and data protection laws. Anushree and William discuss Data Security, contracts, GDPR, how organisations collect and…
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Investing in tomorrow: Shoosmiths' ESG reports
In this series of reports, we share some of our own thinking, as well as that of our clients and other experts, on how consideration of Environmental, Social and Governance factors will increasingly impact the way we all…
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Charities and ESG: What does it mean for the charity sector? Why are not all charities naturally good at it?
ESG is about doing good. So surely all charities are on top of ESG matters? By definition charities are institutions that advance exclusively charitable purposes – all good stuff like advancing education, relieving…
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CV fraud: Supreme Court rules you must pay back some wages
In the recent case of R v Andrewes [2022] UKSC 24, the Supreme Court considered whether stripping the Defendant of their earnings would be disproportionate when considering the financial benefit obtained by CV Fraud…
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The future of work: managing absence in a hybrid working world
It is generally accepted that hybrid working is here to stay, along with all the challenges that managing a remote workforce presents. Here we focus on how an employer can effectively manage absence when employees are…
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Charities managing the risk of cybercrime
Last week was Charity Fraud Awareness Week 2022, an annual event seeking to tackle fraud and cybercrime by raising awareness and sharing good practice among charities. It was heralded by the release of the Charity…
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Charity Matters Autumn 2022
Tackling the cost-of-living crisis: insights on managing through challenging times. Welcome to our autumn edition of Charity Matters. Although we’re hopefully now through the worst of the pandemic, charities continue to…
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Why should charities be more alert to fraud now?
Kaley Crossthwaite , Head of Fraud, BDO LLP In recent years charities have had to react to ever-increasing financial pressures. From the far-reaching impacts of the Covid-19 crisis to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis…
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Fundraising in a recession: our top five tips
Sarah Coop, our new Fundraising Consultant, reflects on COVID-19, the current cost-of-living crisis and how she’s bringing her expertise to Buzzacott to support fundraisers and charities assess their strategy, objectives…
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The Charities Act 2022 Explained
You can view our recent event HERE
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Supreme Court confirms creditor duty in BTI v Sequana
The Supreme Court has handed down an important ruling (BTI -v- Sequana) on whether company directors owe a duty to consider or act in accordance with the interests of the company’s creditors when the company becomes…
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Charity Collaboration: some legal issues
The passing of Her Late Majesty marks the end of an era, the sudden absence of a reassuring figure who has been with most of us for all of our lives, but it is only the latest in a series of seismic events to remind us…
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Why you need to recycle your old technology
Time to get new technology? In this article, we show you what you can do with your old technology, from donating it to recycling it with a retailer. Getting the most out of your laptops and hardware is vital for…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 12, Do clever people need protecting at work?
In episode 12 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech debate whether ‘high IQ’ should be protected from discrimination. This episode covers: The problems with defining…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 11, Kiss and tell - relationships at work
In episode 11 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast, Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss relationships at work in light of recent events. This episode covers: Why it is important to have a…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 10, Returning to work and employee mental health
Episode 10 of the Shoospeak HR Podcast discusses how and why employers need to be mindful of the effect of the pandemic on employee mental health. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 9, Covid-19 twelve months on in the workplace...
Our Shoospeak HR podcast reflects on and discusses some of the measures currently being considered by employers to keep their workplaces safe twelve months on from the start of the pandemic. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 8, The increasing importance of LGBT+ and staff networks
In this episode we talk about all things LGBT networks. Everything from how to start one to why they are so important. In this episode Amy is joined by special guests Michael Briggs (a partner in the Nottingham…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 7, The future of video hearings
Our Shoospeak HR podcast talks you through what to expect from a video hearing, as well as our thoughts on whether or not video hearings are here to stay. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham and Amy Anderson discuss their…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 6, The Christmas Crackers of 2020
Our Shoospeak HR podcast sums up the employment law developments and HR highlights and lowlights from this year. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss the significant employment law…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 5, In #HRShoos with Sam Westwood of The White Company
Our Shoospeak HR podcast welcomes special guest Sam Westwood (Head of People at The White Company). Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech chat to special guest Sam Westwood (Head of People at The…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Episode 4, The new immigration rules - are you prepared?
Our Shoospeak HR podcast welcomes special guest Rachel Harvey who explains what you can be doing now to prepare for the changes to the Immigration Rules from 1 January 2021. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Innocent isolator or regulation rulebreaker?
Our Shoospeak HR podcast considers to what extent employers can take action against employees who break the COVID-19 regulations and rules in respect of self-isolating. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: The rise of the cyberbully in the workplace
Our Shoospeak HR podcast considers the recent increase in cyberbullying within the workplace and some of the issues employers are facing as a result. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss…
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Shoospeak HR Podcast: Farewell Furlough
Our inaugural Shoospeak HR podcast focuses on the end of the furlough scheme and some of the issues employers are facing as a result. Shoosmiths colleagues Andy Graham, Amy Anderson and Amy Leech discuss the ending of…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 9 - Modern Slavery
Modern Slavery Episode 9 of our Journey Through a Contract sees Priti Bansel-Branch and Rida Sheikh look at Modern Slavery. Priti and Rida discuss Modern Slavery, the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and why it was introduced…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 8 - Anti bribery
Anti Bribery Episode 8 of our Journey Through a Contract features Maeve Honey and Emma Lusty from our commercial team, with the duo discussing Anti Bribery. Maeve and Emma touch on the Bribery Act 2010, whether a…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 7 - Force majeure
Force Majeure Episode 7 of our Journey Through a Contract is a Special Edition which sees Michelle Craven-Faulkner joined by fellow partners Fiona Teague and Jonathan Smart to discuss, amongst other things, force…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 6 - Data protection
Data Protection Episode 6 of our Journey Through a Contract sees Becky Gray (Associate) and Shruti Goel (Senior Associate) discuss data protection. The duo focus on the key things to consider before looking at any data…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 5 - Payment terms
Payment terms (including late payment) Episode 5 of our Journey Through a Contract sees Emma Lusty (Principal Associate) and Maeve Honey (Associate) discuss payment terms. The duo explain what is meant by payment terms…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 4 - 'Subject to contract'
Subject to Contract Episode 4 of our Journey Through a Contract sees Priti Bansel-Branch (Principal Associate) and Joel Murphie (Associate) discuss the phrase 'Subject to Contract', which is a phrase that's not always…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 3 - 'Time is of the essence'
Time is of the Essence Episode 3 of our Journey Through a Contract sees Associates Dan Greatorex and Dan Goddard explain the importance of the phrase ‘Time is of the Essence’ in a commercial contract. Listen to the…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 2 - Best endeavours and reasonable endeavours
Best Endeavours and Reasonable Endeavours Episode 2 of Journey Through a Contract sees Rida Sheikh (Paralegal) and Priti Bansel-Branch (Principal Associate) talk about the benefits and pitfalls of using Best Endeavours…
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Podcast series: Journey through a contract, Episode 1 - Commencement dates and effeceive dates
Episode 1 of Journey Through a Contract sees Joel Murphie (Associate) and Priti Bansel-Branch (Principal Associate) take you through the basic commercial principles of Commencement Dates and Effective Dates. Listen to…
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Drafting your Charity’s Responsible Investment Policy
From our experience of working with numerous charities, we have seen the task of drafting a responsible investment policy being carried out in a number of different ways. Some charities have a separate policy, covering…
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How to manage a sexual incident at a charity
Sexual incidents occur in charities, as they do in any other organisations. Knowing how to manage these is often far from clear cut. This article highlights ways to minimise the risk of an incident occurring and how to…
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Collaborative working made simple – the benefits of a joint approach for charities
Given the challenging economic environment, it is good practice for charities to regularly question the status quo and discuss alternative structures. One option increasingly on the boardroom agenda is collaborative…
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Majestic charity
The word 'charity' derives from the Latin word 'caritas' which originally meant 'Christian love of your fellow human being', but our two Elizabethan eras have provided the legal definition of charity in the United…
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Restricted & Unrestricted Funding
Hi, my name is Moragh and I run North West Numbers CIC which provides bookkeeping and accountancy services for small charities, not-for-profits, and Social Enterprises Today I want to Simplify and demystify accounting…
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Non Profits: Improving efficiency and productivity
Recent surveys carried out on the state of the charity sector show a fall in income, reserves and cashflows, with a concern reflected by some that many charities will not survive the current challenges the sector is…
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Charity Record Keeping & Accounting
In this and subsequent articles, I will simplify and demystify accounting terms and processes. Today I want to talk about charity, record-keeping, and accounting. The basic principles of bookkeeping, etc. for charities…
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Accountancy Versus Bookkeeping
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How charities can engage younger generations
We examine how charities can involve and engage Millennials and Gen Z, with reference to onboarding trustees, creating content, mastering social media, and so much more. Younger generations have been exposed to huge…
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Greenwash Controversy
In this thematic piece, Castlefield's Head of Research David Gorman explores how a lack of agreed terminology and standards around 'green' funds could lead to a potential mis-selling scandal somewhere down the line. The…
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Women in the investment management industry: a look at current trends, theories and legislation.
Research suggests that the asset management and institutional investment industries are more inclusive for women today, but there is still a lot more progress to be made. This blog post explores the current trends of…
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The Case of the Benin Bronzes: charities and ex gratia applications
On 14 July the Horniman Museum and Gardens, a registered charity, was announced as Art Fund Museum of the Year 2022, with the chair of judges commending the museum for having “blossomed into a truly holistic museum…
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Pensions dashboards – are they on your agenda?
Pensions dashboards have been a long time in the making, but we can be certain now that they are coming, and soon. Trustees of schemes with more than 100 members (excluding pensioner members) will need to ensure that…
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Is a requirement to be vaccinated still an option for the care sector?
With regulations imposing mandatory vaccination for certain workers in the care sector being implemented to those same regulations being revoked some four months later, employers in this sector may well be confused as to…
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Charities dealing with the new normal
William Hague has written in The Times to argue that once in a lifetime events are the new normal and that it’s comforting but wrong to treat pandemics, soaring energy prices and droughts as rare and so we must plan…
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How to conduct a financial audit
Don’t shy away from an honest look at your finances – take the opportunity to be more transparent. Conducting a financial audit doesn’t lay squarely in the hands of an auditor. Charity finance managers have a big role to…
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Rathbones - Investment Update video: 'When the facts change'
Investment Update video: When the facts change Rathbones’ co-chief investment officer Ed Smith explains that worsening economic data suggests that an American recession is now more likely than not. Share 18 August 2022…
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The Rule of 72
A simple formula for charities to understand inflation.
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‘No ifs, no buts’ – our assessment of the latest Bank of England rate decision
Following the 0.5% increase in the Official Bank Rate, we discuss the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee’s ongoing commitment to the 2% inflation target despite forecasts that the Consumer Prices Index could…
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Rathbones Investment Update: When the facts change
An American recession is now more likely than not. A broad decline in leading indicators steers us to be yet more defensive, but there are both bullish and bearish arguments to be made. Share 12 August 2022 In our last…
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The employer’s guide to the four-day working week
Employers can use innovative ways of working that differentiate their organisation to engage their current workforce and retain and attract talent. Flexible ways of working can also foster a positive company culture…
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VAT & Property – Welcome to the Minefield!
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Effective Leadership in the Charity Sector
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What You Need to Know About Good Charity Governance
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Charity Management vs. Charity Governance
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Supporting Small Charities This Festive Season
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A 2021 Christmas Message from Emma Willder
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What Funders Look For in an Annual Report
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Does My Charity Need an Independent Examination?
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Hiring Your First Employee
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Machines or Designers? Why Designing for Social Impact Matters
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Challenges Faced by Small Arts Organisations
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Beyond Profit is Celebrating 5 Years in Business!
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Bookkeeping vs. Management Accounts – is there a difference?
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Stewardship Update - how we use our voting power to make a positive change
Our stewardship activity has been steadily picking up over the quarter as meeting season begins. We have seen success with some of our collaborative engagements and noted a growing number of ESG related shareholder…
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CHARITY TRUSTEES’ POWERS OF INVESTMENT: DOES THE BUTLER-SLOSS DECISION CHANGE THE LAW?
Does the recent High Court decision in Butler-Sloss and Others -v- The Charity Commission and the Attorney General change the law on how charity trustees should approach investing their funds? The short answer is “ no ”…
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Five principles of digital ethics
Key points to consider before you formulate a charity code of ethics. Five principles of digital ethics Key points to consider before you formulate a charity code of ethics Digital transformation provides charities of…
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How can charities retain their best staff?
Retention of talented staff is important at any time but this year even more so. According to the Office for National Statistics, for the first time since records began there are more job vacancies in the UK than there…
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Why climate leaders could offer investors lower risks
Companies who are already reducing their emissions should prove lower risk investments as the pace of regulation picks up.
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Responsible investment for Charities: High Court Judgement, Trends and Best Practice
We look at the r ecent High Court Judgement which backed two Charitable Trusts who wish to put planet ahead of profit, we then looked at current trends including active ownership and impact investing before providing an…
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Sustainable Investment Report - Q2 2022
Read about our latest engagement and voting activity, updates to our proprietary sustainability tool - SustainEx - on how we apply ESG considerations to sovereigns, and more.
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Butler-Sloss, what are the implications for trustees?
A landmark judgement from the High Court has brought more clarity on trustees' rights and responsibilities when considering a responsible approach to investment. Here we explore the implcations of the case, with insights…
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If a recession is loooming, should your charity invest?
The slowdown in the UK Economy may have trustees wondering whether this is a good time to be investing in the stock market. Warnings of a recession are always unsettling, but our analysis shows it is far better to…
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LF Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund - Q2 2022 Update (On-demand webinar)
Watch our latest update with Ian Enslin and Isobel Fraser.
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Charities facing an uncertain financial future: what do closing charities need to know?
No charity wants to make the decision to close and there are usually options to explore before it comes to closure, such as a merger . However, it is prudent for trustees to be aware of the warning signs and what the…
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Trade Marks and Brand Protection for Charities: A Guide
This guide covers key aspects of Trade Marks and Brand Protection, such as what a trade mark is, why you need one, applying to register a trade mark and enforcing trade mark rights. Download from our website HERE
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UK Featured Stock Story - The Gym Group
In this UK stock story, Head of Research David Gorman introduces The Gym Group. A Castlefield positive investment theme just now is Health & Wellbeing, two causes that investee company The Gym Group is committed to…
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Amelia Overd named as co-manager on two sustainable investment funds
We're pleased to announce that Amelia Overd will be formally named as co-manager of two of the firm's sustainable funds. From the beginning of July, Amelia Overd will be formally joining Simon Holman as co-manager of the…
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Sayer Vincent July Newsletter
The latest Newsletter is HERE
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The old and the new of investing in the time of crisis
In his second article, Edward Jewson focused on investing in the times of crisis and potential challenges for the Trustees. He addressed issues such as tactical vs. strategic decisions and asset allocation, potential…
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Reflections on the past three decades of charity investing
Edward Jewson, CEO and Founder of PMCL Consulting, has launched a series of articles reflecting on his experiences of advising charities over the past three decades and why he believes why external professional impartial…
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Q2 2022 Review - a look back at the events that have shaped the markets over the last 3 months
2022 has so far proven to be a particularly challenging year for investors, and the impact is being felt in charitable long term reserves. There is considerable uncertainty in the interest rate trajectory, but the…
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Recession? What kind of recession? Investment Insights Q3 2022
No two downturns are the same – each is unhappy in its own way Echoes of 1952: comparing the Jubilee and Accession years Is bad news making corporate bonds more attractive? Changing the world by proxy – what is proxy…
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BlackRock Charity Insights: Spotlight on UK Equities
Hear from Magda Kielek, Product Strategist, for our UK Fundamental Equity team in conversation with Robert Hayes, Investment Director for our UK Charities and Endowments business. In this webcast they discuss the outlook…
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Charities, trade marks and the Metaverse
Paula Williams of VWV discusses what opportunities and potential threats the Metaverse could offer charities: I am not an expert in technology, and certainly not the Metaverse. My understanding of the Metaverse and its…
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Values in recruitment – How can charities find the ‘right’ employees?
Recruiting the ‘right’ people is an important part of managing a successful charity, but is not always as easy as we might hope. We may feel like we’ve hired the perfect candidate in terms of experience but find that…
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Are We There Yet
Investors are asking: Have we seen the bottom of the bear market and when might be the right time to invest? The first word of caution is that bear markets tend to be punctuated by very sharp rallies sometimes dubbed a…
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When should charities reject donations?
We look at when and how charities can choose to reject donations for legal or moral reasons. Charities in the UK are created with constitutions – the section of their governing documents that sets out the charity’s…
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Stewardship Update - how we use our voting power to make a postive change
Our stewardship activity has been steadily picking up over the quarter as meeting season begins. We have seen sucess with some of our collaborative engagements and noted a growing number of ESG related shareholder…
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Becoming an effective board webinar
An effective Board is essential for any sized charity. This webinar is beneficial to anyone who is a trustee, senior staff member or governance manager of a charity. James Sinclair Taylor and Sukanya Ransford explore…
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Giving your property to charity on your death – what you need to know
Are you considering leaving a property to a charity in your will either as a specific gift or as part of the residue of your estate? Are you the executor of an estate that has left property to charity? Are you a charity…
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Planet v profit - rethinking ethical investment policies
Rethinking ethical investment policies – impact of Butler-Sloss v Charity Commission. A recent ruling sets out the legal principles for charity trustees exercising their investment powers – potentially empowering many…
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ESG reporting – is your charity missing out?
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It’s a wide-ranging term, which covers the targets your organisation sets, and the actions it takes, to demonstrate your concern for wider societal impact. ESG…
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Charity Matters June 22
RSM's latest charity matter can be viewed HERE
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All Medicine, No Sugar
At some point, the pain in financial markets and the increasing weakness in real economies will force central bank policies to pause. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about this unique perspective…
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The Benefits of Transparency in Charity Governance
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How to form the most effective board for your charity
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The Private Parking Code of Practice
The new Private Parking Code of Practice will be of interest to any landowning charities that own property with a car park, particularly if they use a parking operator to manage the car park. Stone King’s Chris Sharpe…
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Castlefield celebrates 20 years of sustainable and ethical investing
Castlefield, the employee-owned financial and investment management business based in Manchester, is aiming to continue its growth as it celebrates 20 years of sustainable and ethical investing. John Eckersley, senior…
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The top three immigration issues affecting charities (1)
Many charities are now registered sponsors for immigration purposes. This means that a charity is able to employ overseas nationals where they are unable to recruit in the UK. A number of charities will also choose to…
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Commercial Rent (Coronavirus) Act 2022: restrictions that charities should be aware of
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, in 2020 the Government passed legislation to protect commercial tenants from eviction in the event that they were unable to pay their rent. This legislation also prevented landlords from…
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Clarity provided for charitable trustees’ duties and powers when making investment decisions
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What is monkeypox?
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Harassment update
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Should you ‘fire and rehire’ in order to change the terms of the employment contract?
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Successful claim for whistleblowing doctor
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Religious Discrimination – Jewish worker awarded over £26,000 following dismissal for Passover absence
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Remote Hearings: Access to Justice - improvement or a constraint?
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The Employment Bill: A significant change to hybrid working
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Ban on exclusivity clauses in employment contracts to be extended
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Court of Appeal provides Guidance on GP notes for capacity
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Developing a culture of monitoring, evaluation and learning
Developing a culture of monitoring, evaluation and learning Is your organisation struggling to get everyone on the same page with the need for monitoring and evaluation? Perhaps you have reams of data and are not sure…
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Hi Ho Silver Lining
Investors are asking what could go right. So what events could calm concerns in the market? Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about this unique perspective and more on Investec's Weekly Digest. Click…
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Case study: Helping a well founded charity step up to the next level
Background Since its foundation as a charity in March 2019, CEASE, the Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation, has achieved much to be proud of, especially as a young charity in a tough economic environment. CEO Vanessa…
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Decarbonising the real estate sector: tackling the challenges
Blog 2 of 3 The latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report (AR6) finds that unless there are immediate, rapid and large-scale reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, limiting warming close to 1.5°C or…
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Selectivity key to capitalising on post-pandemic property uplift
While UK markets are set to grapple with heightened geo-political risk and rising inflation through 2022, the economic environment should provide plenty of opportunities for property investors. The decline of the…
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PITCH completes Supermassive letting in Guildford
Supermassive Games, an independent video game developer, has signed a lease for 17,382 sq ft of office space across the ground and second floors at 65 Woodbridge Rd in Guildford town centre. This deal, completed on…
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Mayfair Capital’s PITCH acquires first residential properties in partnership with Hearthstone Investments
The Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH), managed by Mayfair Capital Investment Management Ltd (MCIM), has acquired the first properties in a move to invest in private residential, advised by the specialist…
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Mayfair Capital doubles down on UK offices with fourth Solihull acquisition
The Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH), managed by Mayfair Capital Investment Management, has acquired T1, a well-connected and thematically aligned office asset in Solihull. The property is a modern…
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The top three immigration issues affecting charities
Many charities are now registered sponsors for immigration purposes. This means that a charity is able to employ overseas nationals where they are unable to recruit in the UK. A number of charities will also choose to…
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Yoke celebrates its 5th anniversary!
Five of our common threads with charities and their finances.
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Sayer Vincent June Newsletter
Please find our latest newsletter HERE
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The Just Transition
The crucial context for the Just Transition is a need to decarbonise the global economy at an unprecedented rate. In this RI Expert Brief, we explore what the Just Transition means in practice, why it is so important…
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EdenTree are proud to have sponsored The Charity CEO podcast Season 3
EdenTree are proud to have sponsored Season 3 of the popular Charity CEO Podcast, hosted by Dhivya O'Connor. To listen to some of the inspiring charity CEO's click below.
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Charities and ethical investing
The recent High Court judgement in the case of Butler-Sloss & Others v Charity Commission has provided much needed clarity on the extent to which charity trustees can permit their objects and wider moral considerations…
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Investment markets and our positioning
As with other long-term investors, CCLA’s multi-asset portfolios have seen significant falls in capital value over the calendar year to date. ‘Alternative’ assets such as commercial property and infrastructure have on…
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Cautionary Tale of Averages
While we pay heed to averages compiled over many cycles, we also acknowledge that they are just averages, and that every cycle will have its own nuances. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about this…
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Responsible investment for schools
Download Responsible Investment for schools.pdf
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A guide to investment risk for schools
Download A guide to investment risk for schools.pdf
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Bursary and Scholarship Funds - what has happened to income?
Download Bursary and Scholarship Funds.pdf
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Top tips when considering a charities merger
By Catherine Rustomji, Partner and Head of Charities, Shakespeare Martineau There has been an increase in charity mergers in recent years, and whilst the pandemic is perhaps the obvious reason, it is unlikely to be the…
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Turning Trust’s work to bridge the ‘digital divide’ is also helping to tackle climate change
The charity inspired by the father of modern computing has shown that giving old computers new life has environmental as well as social benefits. Share 12 May 2022 James Turing admits the carbon-cutting contributions of…
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Will the green transition help or hinder economic expansion? (1)
The fortunes of all investors – charities included – are bound up to some extent with global economic growth. We look at how the transition to net zero could play out on the global economic stage over the longer term –…
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Will the green transition help or hinder economic expansion?
The fortunes of all investors – charities included – are bound up to some extent with global economic growth. We look at how the transition to net zero could play out on the global economic stage over the longer term –…
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The recipe for good financial governance
An effective charity is a well governed charity. In this blog we look at some of the challenges around good financial governance, the ingredients of effective financial governance and tips on better engaging trustees…
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Menopause in the workplace
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Gender Critical Belief
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Employment Newsletter April 2022
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Climate-related screening of investments gets continued ‘green light’ in new court ruling
The High Court in England and Wales has confirmed that climate-related screening of investments can be a valid approach for charity trustees, in a case brought by trustees of two large grant-making trusts. In a decision…
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Responsible Investment update - 'Don’t forget Paris'.
‘Don’t forget Paris: We’re involved in the global Say on Climate movement to introduce an annual vote at companies on whether their plans for moving to a net zero world are credible or just talk. See more details in our…
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Supporting the development of innovative solutions
This week, Cambridge Innovation Capital closed its second venture capital fund, CIC Fund II for £225 million. Cambridge Innovation Capital is focused on building world-leading deep technology [1] and life sciences…
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Momentous ruling by the UK High Court
UK High Court clarifies steps charities can take to align their investments with their values A new High Court judgement has ruled on trustees’ ability to align their investments with their charities’ values. The…
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Are you prepared for a challenging insurance renewal?
The insurance market, essential guidance ahead of your organisations insurance renewal… The next time you renew your organisations insurances, you are likely to experience higher than expected insurance quotes and…
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The Compendium of Investment
You can now request a copy of our Compendium of Investment HERE The Sarasin Compendium of Investment is designed to help you plan and implement your investment plan alongside your investment manager. Our Compendium will…
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Legal Clarity for Charities as Responsible Investors
A landmark High Court ruling allowing trustees to prioritise climate change mitigation over financial returns in investments.
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Collaborative working made simple
The pandemic has made many charities reconsider their ways of working. Are existing models the best ways of delivering for beneficiaries who are there better more impactful models? One strategy being explored by many is…
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LF Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund Q1 2022 Update - (On-demand webinar)
Watch our latest webinar on the Waverton Charity Growth & Income Fund via the link below.
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Why we think profit and purpose need not be distinct
Portfolio Manager, Tom Saville, writes about why profit and purpose need not be distinct. Click on the link below to read the full article.
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Liberté, Fraternité, Égalité… Normalité?
We don’t expect the first quarter earnings, in aggregate, to have been too bad, although rates of growth will have decelerated from the heady levels of the post-pandemic recovery, especially if one looks at…
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Where are charities on their own net zero journeys?
A recent survey into charities’ action to tackle climate change suggests many organisations need to do more to prioritise environmental awareness and care for the planet. Share 14 April 2022 "a recent survey carried out…
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How Rathbones is playing its part in the journey to net zero
Helen Wilson, responsible business lead for Rathbones Group, outlines our strategy for delivering on our commitment to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050 and minimising climate-related risk in our investment…
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Rathbones’ engagement with companies on ESG issues wins recognition
Our approach to responsible investing, in particular our use of proxy voting to encourage sustainable practices among the companies we invest in, has recently been recognised with two major industry awards. Share 20…
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France Decides
With an election on the horizon, will we see a bigger ideological divide between Europe’s two largest and most influential economies? Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about this unique perspective…
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Responsible investment – thinking about environmental, social and governance issues as an investor and shareholder – is a priority at Rathbones.
Our responsible investment report 2022 Responsible investment – thinking about environmental, social and governance issues as an investor and shareholder – is a priority at Rathbones. This year’s report on our…
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Five ways to 50
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Tipping point
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To merge, or not to merge?
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Could your cash reserves be doing more?
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Ruffer Review 2022
Read the latest version of our Ruffer Review. We explore how turbulence lies ahead for investors as inflation volatility sets up to be the biggest challenge for investors in a generation. We also discuss risk and its…
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Ruffer Review 2021
Read our 2021 edition of the Ruffer Review. In it we explore the fate of traditional balanced portfolios, our latest big picture thinking on regime change and inflation, as well as fresh perspectives on trust, belief and…
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Changes in Right to Work Checks
Brexit and the pandemic have had an impact on Right to Work checks over the past few years, and there have been recent changes. In this webinar, Julie Moktadir, Partner and Head of Immigration at national law firm Stone…
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Charity Commission ends flexibility around meetings
The Charity Commission is ending its more flexible approach to holding virtual meetings from 21 April 2022. The flexibility has allowed charities to hold electronic and hybrid meetings during the pandemic even if this…
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Mayfair Capital’s PITCH acquires top trading hotel from Town Centre Securities
Mayfair Capital’s Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH), the top performing specialist property Fund for charities over 10 years (as at 31 December 2021, source MSCI/AREF [1] ), has purchased a Premier Inn hotel in…
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Mayfair Capital furthers commitment to warehousing with new acquisition
1 March 2022 Click here to view the full PDF version, Mayfair Capital furthers commitment to warehousing with new acquisition. The Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH), managed by Mayfair Capital Investment…
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Decarbonising the real estate sector: entering the decade of implementation
The impacts of climate change are evident, with the real estate industry one of the largest contributors, accounting for 39% of global carbon emissions 1 and 40% of the UK’s total carbon footprint 2 . The latest…
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Real estate decarbonisation hinges on data and detail
This article was first published in Wealth Magazine on 3rd December 2021. View their web based version here . With building and construction activities accounting for approximately 39% of global carbon emissions and 40%…
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What is it like to be a Castlefield client
At Castlefield we find that our clients are as diverse as we are. One common interest that most clients share is using their money to do good. We adopt a unique approach to looking after money, helping clients to define…
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Launch of the latest Annual Stewardship Report
We’re delighted to launch our latest Annual Stewardship Report where you’ll find even more information about Castlefield's stewardship and engagement activities from the last year. We hope this report demonstrates the…
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This is not an economic rerun of the 70s
Classic hits are on the radio, platform boots are back in fashion, oil prices are soaring and inflation is alarmingly high. But stagflation doesn’t look like it will make a comeback. Investment Insights This isn’t an…
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Stone King secures major hire of leading charity lawyer
National law firm Stone King is delighted to welcome top-ranked charity lawyer Rosamund McCarthy Etherington to its Charity team as an Equity Partner. She joins the firm, which is a national leader in charity law, after…
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From 6 April 2022 employees can produce digital fit notes
New regulations mean that from 6 April 2022 a new form of fit note is permitted for social security or statutory sick pay (which will be used in parallel with the existing fit note version). The change removes the…
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Can charities reject unwanted gifts left to them in Wills?
Many charities rely on legacies left to them in the Wills of their supporters. It represents a crucial form of income, now more than ever. But every year, alongside cash legacies, many charities are also left items that…
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'Platforms are back, but not stagflation'.
Why we don’t see an economic rerun of the 70s: a preview of the lead article in this quarter's Investment Insights, which is coming soon. Share 29 March 2022 Some of our older readers may be experiencing some…
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Financial safeguarding for small charities
Not just for charity trustees, safeguarding starts at the front lines. Financial safeguarding isn’t just for those in charge of the purse strings. For smaller charities, large training programmes may not be possible. We…
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Protecting your charity's Intellectual Property
Charities are at risk of intellectual property (IP) infringement just as much as commercial brands. There are sadly many examples of infringement of charities’ intellectual property and it is therefore important that…
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How to review your finance function
Mark Salway (Managing Director) and Marcus Lees-Millais (Manager, Financial Sustainability) from our Nonprofit Advisory team talk through how to review your finance function focusing on people, process and procedure…
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Peering Through the Fog of War
What the market is still trying to evaluate is whether the combination of input cost squeezes and monetary tightening will result in an “official” economic contraction. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans…
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Is the Bank of England losing control of inflation and the yield curve?
2022 is an important anniversary for the Bank of England (BoE). It represents 25 years since the Blair government gave it operational independence over monetary policy and the ability to set interest rates. One of the…
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War in Ukraine: update on investment markets
The distressing news from Ukraine shows no signs of abating. In response to unpredictable and worrying geo-political developments, investment markets have continued to be volatile with widespread declines in portfolio…
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How can charities navigate another crisis?
Have you recently sat in a charity strategy or finance meeting and discussed the horrific situation developing in Ukraine and the humanitarian disaster? If you have, you are not alone. Here are a few steps to consider.
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Video: Five steps to effective cash management
Cash is vital for operations. It helps charities pay for salaries, facilities, tech, and so on. There are two key underlying principles for effective cash management: visibility of current cash and an understanding of…
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Rocks and Hard Places
Wars tend not to fall into the realms of normal risk analysis because they are fraught with uncertainty. This is turning out to be the case not only with Russia’s actions in Ukraine, but also with the rest of the world’s…
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UK Featured Stock Story - Blancco Technology Group
Our mission at Castlefield is to gather assets to do good. We believe that responsible business practices and sustainable products and services will allow companies to produce better investment returns over the…
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Whistleblowing - a practical guide at a time of increasing disclosures
Any incident of whistleblowing can have a significant reputational impact on a charity, whatever the outcome of investigations, and it is important for charities to take any disclosure seriously. Harriet Broughton…
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Walking in Partnership: reflecting on key issues affecting charities operated by Religious Orders
National law firm Stone King has joined forces with accountancy firm Buzzacott for a three-part video series exploring numerous pertinent topics affecting charities operated by Religious Orders. Tim Rutherford , head of…
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Fear of catching COVID-19 not a protected belief rules Employment Tribunal
An Employment Tribunal recently ruled that a fear of COVID-19 is not a reason to not return to the office, but charities need to be mindful how they approach managing employees’ return to office working and take…
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How can charities deal with hostile social media?
At present, social media is not sufficiently regulated. Much of the regulation is left to the social media platform owners, the global tech companies, to regulate. Whilst the social media platforms have their own rules…
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The Charities Act 2022
The Charities Act 2022 received Royal Assent on 24 February 2022. The Act implements the majority of recommendations made by the Law Commission in its 2017 report ‘Technical issues in charity law’ and aims to reduce the…
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Thinking the Unthinkable
We are now well into day five of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the outcome remains unclear. Markets are experiencing increased volatility, with moves dependent upon the latest news and we expect that this will remain…
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Investing for charities: building a more resilient future
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Top Tips for Protecting Your Charity's Reputation During A Crisis
A charity's reputation is one of its key assets and something that trustees must protect. Recent years have seen significant scrutiny of charities such as in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse and the…
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The Less You Know...
Geopolitical crises are in the spotlight but investors must stay calm in the face of potential war in Ukraine which may disrupt economies and supply chains. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about…
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The oxymoron of getting paid in advance
You are a charity and y ou’ve been paid in advance so what do you do?
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5 Ways to Make Stress a Superpower
Recently, we were delighted to be joined by Olympic hockey gold medallist Maddie Hinch MBE and leading businesswoman Cheryl Potter – former Partner at Private Equity firm Permira and Chair of Level 20 – to explore how to…
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Business, Planning Reality Checklist
For your business plan to work, you need to be able to confidently answer 'yes' to each of the questions below. That's about making an objective assessment of each. Our plan includes everything that's important to us…
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Margin Matters
Looking back through some of the references to margins made by companies reporting over the last few weeks, recorded in our internal morning meeting minutes, and, so far, the overall mood is relatively relaxed, although…
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What is the difference between donations, grants and fundraising?
As a charity, it’s important to know exactly where your sources of income come from. In fact, having this level of in-depth accounting analysis is vital for you to build and grow your charity. Also, to plan for the…
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Snakes and Ladders
Companies whose current valuations depend heavily on profits that will be generated well into the future remain highly vulnerable on the stock market. Market commentators are always looking for metaphors or analogies to…
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The Art of Adaption - Investment Lessons from the Pandemic
From the financial impacts to the operational challenges, many charities are still facing significant hurdles and are having to adapt to continue supporting their beneficiaries. The importance of adaptability during the…
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Blowing the whistle on Covid-related activities
A sales assistant has been found to have been unfairly dismissed after expressing concerns about her colleagues failing to follow Covid precautions. Leigh Best brought claims of unfair dismissal, sex and age…
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COVID-19 Update for Employers in England and Wales
In the below article, we set out changes for working from home for England and Wales. England As of 19 January 2022, there is no longer a requirement for employees to work from home and the guidance has changed to…
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Company Sick Pay Cuts and Covid-19
Recent weeks have seen a relaxation in the self-isolation rules across England and Wales. People with Covid-19 (regardless of vaccination status) can now end their self-isolation after five full days, provided they test…
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Employment Law Newsletter December 2021
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COP26: what investors need to know
COP26: what investors need to know Watch the first webinar in our ‘what investors need to know’ series, focusing on the human efforts to tackle climate change and why it matters to investors. Share 27 January 2022
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Climate change: what investors need to know
Climate change: what investors need to know In the second of our ‘what investors need to know’ series, we take a look at GDP as a measurement of economic success, delve into the energy crisis and discuss what a…
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Top ten virtual fundraising ideas
In the first article in our series, we look at the best virtual fundraising ideas and give some advice about how to make the most of each idea. COVID-19 drastically altered the landscape of the charity sector, l eading…
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Consumer expert joins Castlefield external advisory committee
Consumer finance expert, Rebecca O’Connor has been announced as the new chairperson of Castlefield’s external advisory committee. Castlefield set up an External Advisory Committee in 2018 to provide impartial governance…
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It’s time to Get Real
As a society, we are all interested in change for the better. Charities are particularly focused on the practicalities of driving fair social and economic progress. The road ahead of us often appears fraught with…
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FOBIA
The vast majority of our clients’ portfolios are balanced, some of which are chosen specifically to move in a different direction to others. Therefore, most portfolios will tend not to display either outsized gains or…
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Don't Look Up
It appears that market composition and company profitability justifies the current performance of equities. However, we must monitor the markets closely as we can't always be so sure. Our Head of Investment Strategy…
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Charity Investments - 2022 Outlook
Looking back at 2021, according to the Charity Commission Covid-19 Survey, nearly all charities (91%) in England and Wales have experienced some negative impact from Covid-19, including a negative impact on their…
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Five Top Tips on Diversifying your Charity Investment Portfolio
A need to diversify investments is a requirement for charity trustees to act within the law, as stated in the Charity Commission's Guide for trustees on investment matters (CC14). Diversification is a risk management…
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A guide to reviewing your Charities investment manager
Reviewing investment performance and managers on a regular basis is a legal responsibility of trustee boards where charities have investment portfolios. While there are no specific requirements for such reviews, most…
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ESG and Direct Lending
David Smart of PMCL Consulting participated in the panel discussion on ESG at the Direct Lending Outlook Europe 2022 event in November. We found the event very informative and it raised a number of issues that are very…
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Being Brave
We live in a world where distribution – through technology, communication and transport – dominates. We must be ready to spot new opportunities in the markets. Our Chief Investment Officer, Stacey Parrinder-Johnson…
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Balancing Acts
There were limited signs of hesitancy last week when several central banks released the results of their latest deliberations. Whether we like it or not, we are currently faced with difficult decisions about how to act…
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Investment Outlook September 2021
The 15 August 2021 marked the 50-year anniversary of President Nixon taking the US off the “Gold Standard” - a monetary system whereby foreign central banks and governments could exchange their US dollar cash holdings…
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Lingering inflation from global supply chain issues
The economic recovery and inflation are increasingly being shaped by supply-chain issues related to labour shortages and production bottlenecks. For example, a scarcity of US construction workers has hindered home…
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Investment Outlook November 2021: No time for stagflation in the UK
Surging energy prices have contributed to inflationary concerns, at a time when economic growth momentum is weakening. This has led to concerns over potential stagflation, where inflation pushes prices up faster than…
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Investment Outlook December 2021: a global market roundup
The global economy has seen a significant recovery in 2021, which has brought inflationary pressures. Central banks are under pressure to respond and many have started to tighten monetary policy. Interest rates are…
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Water, The Key To Life
As humans, we have a critical dependency on water to meet our direct and indirect needs. Our natural environment, biodiversity, animal life and even clouds depend on it. Civilisation as we know it is built on a reliable…
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Charles Stanley InFocus Charities - Be more Future Issue 9
Download InFocus_Charities_Issue9_[pages]-FINAL.pdf
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Event risk management for your not-for-profit
If your local council, charity or not-for-profit is running an event, it is important to ensure you consider the safety of your volunteers, employees and people attending the event. We’ve created a 3-step downloadable…
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How to do a risk assessment for your not-for-profit
Risk assessments are an important part of running a not-for-profit organisation. This 3 minute video provides a guide to completing a risk assessment.
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Zurich’s insurance for charities explained: Video series
This series of 5 short videos explains some of the different types of insurance that Zurich can offer, to help you make sure your organisation has got the cover it needs.
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Government temporarily changes the rules around Fit Notes
To free up GP capacity to support the Covid-19 booster programme, the Government has temporarily amended the rules around sickness absence which will impact when an employer can request medical evidence of proof of…
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Simon Martindale: Large property portfolios will struggle to meet net zero targets
The following article and video was first published in Portfolio Advisor on 28th October 2021. Read the article below or access their web based version here: Simon Martindale: Large property portfolios will struggle to…
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MSCI Monthly Index: Industrial/ Logistics continue to strongly outperform but for how long?
The recently published MSCI Index for September shows commercial property returning 10% year to date. Capital growth has been a robust 6.4% with industrials/logistics leading the way with 15.1% capital growth and an…
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Mayfair Capital Investment Management 2021 GRESB results
Mayfair Capital Investment Management (Mayfair Capital) is pleased to announce that its flagship fund, Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH) has achieved a 2021 GRESB score of 76/100 and three Green Stars. This is…
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Mayfair Capital Charity Property Investment Seminar - 30th September 2021
Mayfair Capital was delighted to host its annual seminar on Thursday 30th September from 2.15pm, live at The King's Fund and also via livestream. The event focused on charity investments, in particular the property…
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Leaders List Interview: 60 seconds with Simon Martindale, Mayfair Capital Investment Management
The article below was first published in Citywealth on 4th October 2021. Access their on-line version here or read the full article below. Tell us about your role I am a Fund Director at Mayfair Capital, a specialist UK…
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The Omic(h)ronicals
So far during this pandemic, every new COVID wave has been less severe in its economic effects than the last and, for now, we are working on that premise. History also shows that investors are never as shocked by…
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Great Expectations
Bad news can be good news in the markets when investors believe it will have an impact on monetary policy. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about this unique perspective and more on Investec's…
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Charity sector webinar: managing risks in uncertain times
The latest webinar can be viewed by registered HERE
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Charity Matters Update
RSM's latest charity matter can be viewed HERE
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Charities Alert Winter 2021
Our newsletter provides an update on the latest charity news and key announcements that you may need to act on. The key areas covered in this issue are Governance , Compliance , Financial Reporting and Taxation Click…
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Managing in a crisis: a guide for charities
We’ve sought to set out the practical steps charities can take – and points to consider – if a crisis hits. Read full article HERE
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Bates Wells Briefing for Charities & Social Enterprises | 14 December
Our weekly round up of news and updates from across the sector can be found here
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Inflation Issues for Charities
Financial press is constantly talking about inflation. Here are some simple factors for charities to consider.
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Managing a Charity’s Reputational Risk: Employment Considerations
Managing a Charity’s Reputational Risk: Employment Considerations A charity’s reputation is highly valuable. Charities are held to a higher standard and therefore face greater public scrutiny than commercial…
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Screening investments to align with values
When looking to use money to make a positive difference, how do you decide which sectors and stocks to invest in? Does a screening policy simply exclude certain industries? How can you encourage positive investment…
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Rathbones' Paying for care in later life
What changes to state funding of care mean for you Many people who have worked hard all their lives and paid National Insurance Contributions feel resentment that the state has been unwilling to pick up the tab for…
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HR Flexi- our employment law package for your Organisation
Download Employment-HR-Flexi-Flyer.pdf
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Long COVID and the workplace
There is a still lot we don’t know about Long COVID and its prognosis which can make it difficult for employers to properly support staff with the condition and manage the potential impact on their workforce. Here we set…
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Tilney Smith & Williamson Charity Trustee Training Webinar - 18 November 2021
This session covered investment strategy against a background of rising inflation. We were delighted to be joined by renowned strategist, financial markets historian and keeper of The Library of Mistakes Russell Napier…
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Rathbones' Investment Update - COP26: a good COP or a bad COP?
COP26 extended way beyond its intended Friday finish and well into Saturday with a deal agreed, but not without late drama. After being subject to a desperately last-minute change by India and China, important new…
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Earth convention: natural capital, biodiversity and oceans
is thought that one million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction. Rosie Boycott chaired the panel of experts - Professor Sir Partha Dasgupta, Dr Gabrielle Walker and Tony Juniper, who discussed how…
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Earth convention: sustainable cities -
t the moment, 55% of the population live in cities and the UN estimates that 68% will live in cities by 2050. We have to live somewhere and cannot simply build houses all over the countryside so the question is, how can…
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A Conversation with James Anderson: The Future of Capitalism in a Finite World
With the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties in Glasgow (‘COP26’) underway, the world’s lens has never been more acutely focused on the most significant issue facing humanity today, climate change. As…
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Rathbones - Reserves help to keep doors open at home-from-home for families of sick children
Trustee Carol Hart and head of fundraising Janet Pennington explain how, despite the pandemic, Alder Hey Family House Trust is still providing accommodation for the families of seriously ill children. Every year, ‘Mac…
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Rathbone Greenbank - Responsible Investing - Financing a Just Transition report - Putting people and communities at the heart of sustainable investment.
Another year of extreme weather events and a stark warning on the climate emergency from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have shown us that there has never been a more pressing time to adapt the world…
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SIX SECRETS TO SUCCESSFUL CORPORATE FUNDRAISING
1. Join LinkedIn and make your profile the best it can be. You don’t need a Premium account, the free version provides plenty of access to people, companies, blogs etc. Interact with other people, comment on posts…
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Current List of Counterparties
Attached is a current list of the counterparties we assess. However, we are happy to add to this list upon request. Download Available Assessments as at November 2021.pdf
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Smith & Williamson 2021 Charity Survey
This year's Charities Survey results reflect an extraordinary year for many charities. We last carried out the survey in 2018 and the difference in attitudes is stark, with cash reserves higher, investment income less…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Seminar - Income-only versus Total Return investing
Here we provide an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the income-only and total return investment approaches, and what needs to be considered when deciding which approach is best for a charity…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - CC14 and how to develop an investment policy
Here we provide an overview of a charity trustee’s investment management duties and how to develop and draft an investment policy statement…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - The basic rules for long-term investors
Here we provide a set of rules for setting objectives, building an investment strategy, investment selection as well as ongoing portfolio management and reporting.
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - Considerations when selecting an investment manager
Here we distil the main points you’ll need to consider when selecting the right investment manager for your charity. There are a lot of decisions to make before you start your search. Active or passive? Pooled or…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - Equities Selection
Here we provide an overview of how we analyse and select potential equity investments for our charity clients and strive to avoid the permanent loss of capital…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - Ethical and Sustainable Investment
Here we provide an overview of ethical, sustainable and impact investing and the range of approaches that charities can take…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - The relationship between risk and return
Here we provide an overview of the different types of risk associated with investing and how to measure and manage investment risk to help achieve a charity’s financial objectives…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Webinar - Understanding investment tools: An introduction to asset classes. A brief overview of the main asset classes that can typically be used in a charity’s investment portfolio
Here we provide an overview of the different types of risk associated with investing and how to measure and manage investment risk to help achieve a charity’s financial objectives…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - Equities – which markets?
The events of the past year have changed the course of markets and some areas have been worse affected than others. James Codrington and James Pettit will discuss the relative merits of investing in different regions…
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Rathbones Charity Investment Training Webinar - Equities selection – How to identify winners and avoid a permanent loss of capital
A thorough investment process will help you to identify future winners, as Sanjiv Tumkur and Euan MacDonald will explain. Avoiding a permanent loss of capital can never be guaranteed but a robust analysis of fundamentals…
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Rathbones Charity Training Webinar Series - Income vs. total return
Knowing the best available investment options is important for your charity. Andrew Zazzi and Victoria Walke r will explore the advantages and disadvantages of an income-only versus total return investment approach and…
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A Climate for Good Investment
We have long considered climate change to be the largest threat to our environment, our communities and, consequently, to the success of investment markets. For this reason, we are committed to accelerating the…
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Quick Guide to COP26
Since the last COP meeting in 2015, global emissions have risen on an absolute basis. Earlier this year, a UN climate action report said that nations were ‘nowhere close’ to the level of action needed to fight global…
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Rathbones' Charity Matters Summer 2021
Building resilience for challenging times Charity Matters Summer 2021 Building resilience for challenging times Share 27 August 2021 Welcome to our Summer edition of Charity Matters. Given the immensely challenging…
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Inspiring the charity trustees of the future
In conversation: Emma Watson , head of financial planning and advisory services at Rathbones and Penny Wilson, CEO of Getting on Board, discuss the rewards and challenges of being a charity trustee. With a long history…
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Cities to the rescue
How smarter planning of our towns and cities can help meet sustainability goals, drive productivity and ensure more equitable wealth distribution. Urbanisation has been a pivotal driver of the surge in the productive…
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A healthy recovery
How governments, investors and businesses can make better choices to help improve our healthcare systems in the wake of the pandemic. The Coronavirus pandemic has provided a huge setback, and indeed has highlighted the…
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Can investors change the world?
Charities are increasingly, and rightly, questioning how their funds are invested. We look at how we can all make the world a better place through our investments and the best ways to have an impact. When it comes to…
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Rethinking the economic ecosystem
How businesses, societies and investors can work together to address the major environmental and social challenges facing the world through responsible capitalism. Based on returns to shareholders since the onslaught of…
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Good COP, bad COP?
This latest Conference of the Parties (COP) taking place in Glasgow is a vital opportunity to discuss progress on the goals established by the historic Paris Agreement in 2015 and set out a bold vision for the rest of…
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Feeding the world
How consumers, businesses and investors can act together to embrace innovation in managing precious global food resources and take a bite out of climate change. Feeding the world’s roughly 8 billion people has a huge…
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Rathbones' Charity Matters Autumn 2021 COP26 special
Welcome to the Autumn edition of Rathbone's Charity Matters. The eyes of the world are on the representatives of around 190 nations gathered in Glasgow for the COP26 global climate summit. The outcomes could have huge…
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Happy Vacciversary!
The Bank of England did not raise the bank rate as expected and amid the uncertainty investors are looking to balance high-risk and no-risk assets. What this means is that despite a strong quarterly earnings season there…
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Writing an Ethical Investment Policy
A charity’s ethical investment policy should sit within, and form a part of, the wider investment policy. With new generations of trustees joining the ranks and an increased spotlight on ethical investing, continued…
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Employment Law Newsletter - October 2021
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Charles Stanley’s Personal Portfolio Service for Charities
Irrespective of size Our belief is that every charity, foundation and not-for-profit should have access to high quality investment management services. For charity assets from £10,000 to £300,000, Charles Stanley’s…
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COP 26 - Concrete changes
Climate considerations at the start of COP26
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The Charge of the Light Brigade
Investors might be facing their own charge into a battlefield with “cannon to right of them, cannon to left of them, cannon in front of them” in the weeks ahead. The time has come to take more of a protective stance on…
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UK Stewardship Code Signatories Latest Stewardship Report Q3
Castlefield has successfully joined a limited number of responsible asset managers and asset owners to become signatories of the Financial Reporting Council's (FRC) UK Stewardship Code. As UK Stewardship Code…
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Your Treasurer Due-Diligence Service Overview
Download Your Treasurer Due-Diligence Service Overview - September 21.pdf
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Just the Time of Year
It’s fair to say that there is no end of things to worry investors at the moment, and we, along with many other market participants, are watching them carefully. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks…
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How social enterprises pivoted in the face of Covid-19
Social enterprises have shown incredible resilience throughout the Covid-19 crisis, despite the acute challenges posed by the pandemic and successive lockdowns. Leaders from our social enterprise incubation programme…
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Be Careful What You Wish For
Central bankers have spent most of the years since the financial crisis crying out for more inflation. Now they are getting it in spades. The inflation that some central banks desired since the financial crisis now looks…
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Thinking Differently
Groupthink reduces the ability of investment teams to generate ideas that are contrary to market consensus. So it's important to seek out diversity of thought in daily life. Our Fun Selection Specialist, Joseph Rowland…
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When Inflation and Charities Collide
The following article is an opinion piece by Ian Chesham, a Director in our Charities team, ahead of October’s Charity Finance Summit. Please note: The article does not constitute investment advice. The tail-end of the…
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Charities: Emerging Issues Conference
You are able to view our recent webinar here that focuses on the important emerging issues that charities are facing .
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Investec accepted as a signatory of the UK Stewardship Code
We’re delighted to announce the latest milestone in our sustainability journey. At Investec, our primary goal is to help our clients achieve their financial goals. But our purpose is also to create enduring worth, living…
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Castlefield Celebrate EIRIS Foundation Million Pound Question Announcement
The Castlefield team has much to celebrate following the announcement by responsible investment charity, The EIRIS Foundation , regarding the outcome of its recent Million Pound Question. The challenge, incorporating a…
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What is COP26? Guide to the UN Climate Change Conference
This guide provides a brief overview of the 26th United Nations’ climate change conference taking place in Glasgow at the end of 2021, including what it is, what to expect and why are you should be paying attention. WHAT…
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The UK Stewardship Code 2020
Mayfair Capital Investment Management is delighted to have been announced as one of the first real estate investment managers accepted as a signatory to the UK Stewardship Code. Mayfair Capital has recognised the…
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Inflation for Charities
A parable on inflationary factors for charities
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Golf With Einstein
Right now, there remains a huge focus on the gap between what can be earned by savers on low-risk investments and the rate of inflation. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans, talks about this unique…
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Gender equality: In Society, the Workplace, and in Investment
Though there’s been significant progress towards gender equality, we’re still way off the 2030 UN goals. Covid-19 shows we must renew our focus. Our Chief Commercial Officer, Barbara Ann King, discusses this powerful and…
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JH&P joins Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change
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Investment Update August 2021
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Climate Mitigation in Charity Investment Portfolios
How can charities manage and improve their carbon footprint when investing? To meet the UN goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, every individual, company, organisation, or government has a role to play. At…
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Back to School
The syllabus for the foreseeable future has not much changed; the main focus is still on COVID, inflation, and central bank policy, and much more attention will be paid to climate change, carbon reduction, and all…
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Castlefield achieves highest standard becoming UK Stewardship Code Signatories
Castlefield has successfully joined a limited number of responsible asset managers and asset owners to become signatories of the Financial Reporting Council's (FRC) UK Stewardship Code. The UK Stewardship Code 2020 sets…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Hope on the Horizon
Recent data from the UK and Israel confirm that protection against severe disease and death remains largely intact at more than 90% efficacy for the most widely-used vaccines. The combination of the vaccines and…
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Incorporating Social Factors Into Healthcare Investing
The COVID-19 pandemic has put the healthcare sector in the spotlight and raised the profile of the S in ESG: the social factors at play in the world and in health. As the Covid-19 pandemic brings social factors to the…
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When Covid makes it impossible to fulfil contracts
JAYNE ADAMS, partner at law firm McCARTHY DENNING, talks through a whole range of issues when the performance of contracts is impeded by Covid. Please click here to read the full article.
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Investment Outlook - August 2021
A tale of two markets The equity and bond markets appear split on the global growth outlook. The MSCI All Country World equity index has rallied 11% (GBP, total return terms) this year on the back of a global growth…
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EdenTree’s Latest Carbon Footprinting Report
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Investec Weekly Digest: Commodity on Tap
In the UK, it is easy to take water for granted and treat it as worthless. But amid a series of extreme weather events around the world, the value of water is being reassessed. Fund Selection Specialist, Susanne…
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Quilter Cheviot's educational programme for charities
As part of our educational programme for charities, we have created a series of webinars. The webinars are designed to help trustees through this period of uncertainty by covering a range of topics. We will be joined by…
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Investec Weekly Digest: The Energy Transition
Humans attitude to 'changing the world to suit us' needs to be adjusted to comply with our ecosystem. Will humans attitude continue to be or will we change our behaviour? Senior Research Analyst, Zane Bezuidenhout…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Empty Desks
Although conditions might be ripe for a bout of volatility, it doesn’t necessarily mean there will be a trigger. As we enter August there are, as ever, plenty of warnings that markets could be unsettled by any unexpected…
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Behavioural Finance
Peter Ryan, Head of Charities, North West, examines the role of psychology in the decision-making process on assessing risk.
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High Court Victory for Kids Company
The collapse of the well-known charity Kids Company in 2015 raised a number of points for the charity sector.
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Sector Watch
Ruth Murphy looks at some of the sectors offering growth opportunities now and for the future.
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Responsible Investment
With shifting expectations and a change in the public mood, Alice Farrer, one of our charity investment managers discusses how charities can align their investments with their purpose and values.
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Charity Trustee Training Webinar - 10 June 2021
The Charity Commission have launched a consultation on their Responsible Investment guidance to charities with the stated aim of exploring how to reduce the barriers that prevent charities from investing responsibly…
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Charity Trustee Training Webinar - 18 June 2020
The topics covered included: Identifying, understanding and managing risk – Richard Piercy, S&W Responsible Investing after Covid 19 – Kate Capocci, S&W
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Charity Trustee Training Webinar - 18 June 2020 (1)
The topics covered included: Identifying, understanding and managing risk – Richard Piercy, S&W Responsible Investing after Covid 19 – Kate Capocci, S&W
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Charity Trustee Training Webinar - 27 June 2020
The topics covered included: Bullying allegations and how to investigate them – Meriel Schindler and Hugh Moore (Withers LLP) What happens next in the post Covid environment – Adrian Wild (S&W)
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Charity Trustee Training Webinar - 3 June 2021
We are delighted to invite you to join us for the first in a series of Lunchtime Charity Trustee Training events, focused on trustee responsibilities, and how to manage the investing challenges faced by charities. The…
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Charity webinar - Is the past a guide to the future?
As part of our educational programme for charities, we are delighted to be hosting a live webinar and question and answer session with Sir Stuart Etherington, former Chief Executive of The National Council for Voluntary…
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Charity Webinar: What lessons can charities learn from the pandemic?
As part of our educational programme for charities, we are delighted to invite you to a live Q&A webinar with Debra Allcock Tyler, Chief Executive of Directory of Social Change (DSC). Debra will explore the lessons…
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Charity Webinars
As part of our educational programme for charities, and in response to the pandemic, we have created a series of webinars. The webinar recordings are designed to help trustees through this period of uncertainty by…
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Charles Stanley Trustee Training Webinar
The past year has brought with it a multitude of challenges and triumphs previously never explored. It caused Charities, amongst other institutions, to rapidly digitalise, innovate and adjust to a new normal in order to…
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Economic Outlook Webinar
2020 has been an extraordinary year for the world economy bringing change and challenge on an unprecedented scale. In this webinar we will review the prospects for 2021 and suggest an investment strategy for those…
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Growing as a Leader - Hallidays Business AM interactive webinar
Join us for an interactive webinar. We'll provide you with the leadership skills you need to drive your organisation forward and engage your colleagues to achieve your vision.
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Mayfair Capital Charity Investment Webinar 18th June 2020
Property investment and asset allocation for charities – facing the challenges of Covid-19. To watch a recording of the webinar, please view the link here…
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Mayfair Capital Charity Investment Webinar 18th June 2020 (1)
Property investment and asset allocation for charities – facing the challenges of Covid-19. To watch a recording of the webinar, please view the link here…
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Mayfair Capital Charity Investment Webinar 18th June 2020 (2)
Property investment and asset allocation for charities – facing the challenges of Covid-19. To watch a recording of the webinar, please view the link here…
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Next Gen Now Webinar Series: De-mystifying charity accounts
Join us on Thursday 22 April from 11:30-12:15, for our next Next Gen Now virtual event, where our Charities Team will be joined by Euan Morrison, Head of Charities at Chiene + Tait. Do you know your designated fund from…
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RSM and Withers Webinars: managing your business post pandemic
Join our webinars on 15 October and 22 October to look at the state of the Not for Profit (NFP) sector. In our presentations we will consider the importance of good governance, the evolving role of trustees and directors…
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Smith and Williamson Market Update - Monthly Webinar
Sign up for our monthly Investment Outlook webinar, presented by our Chief Investment Strategist, Daniel Casali. https://smithandwilliamson.com/en/insights-landing/covid-19-hub/covid-19-hub-investment/#webinars
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London Charity Conference Webinars - 24 September 2020
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Smith & Williamson (S&W) London Charity Conference will be held as a virtual event this year. Our conference will be held as two webinars taking place on 24 September 2020. The first…
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Investec Webinar: Charities Taking Action in a Net Zero World
Sign up to attend our upcoming webinar: ‘Charities taking action in a net zero world’, hosted in partnership with Charity Financials. Taking place Tuesday 23rd March , at 11am. Investec’s Head of Charities, Nicola Toyer…
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Belfast Charity Conference Webinars
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Smith & Williamson Belfast Charity Conference will be held as a virtual event this year. Our conference will be held as two webinars taking place on 27 April 2021. The first webinar will…
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Birmingham Charity Conference Webinars
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Smith & Williamson Birmingham Charity Conference will be held as a virtual event this year. Our conference will be held as two webinars taking place on 11 March 2021. The first webinar…
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Trustee Training Webinar, 4 February
Current restrictions mean that we are unable to meet in person but, instead, we are continuing to offer you an online version of our popular Trustee Training Workshop. The next session will run on 4 February 2021 . The…
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Trustees 2021 Webinar - Planning the year - 23 February 2021
Smith & Williamson business advisers and Lester Aldridge solicitors invite you to join our Zoom webinar. Following a very challenging 2020, we all welcome the New Year, whatever it may bring. Undoubtedly, there will be…
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Webinar: Addressing the repercussions of COVID-19: how social impact investment can help us build back better
COVID-19 has exacerbated the pre-existing inequalities in our society; during the pandemic our poorest communities have suffered the highest rates of death, job losses and levels of food insecurity. As we slowly…
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Webinar: Charity Update Series
We are all aware of the impact COVID-19 has had, and will continue to have, on beneficiaries, employees, volunteers and operations. The worldwide economy is feeling the impact. The pandemic has forced change. But when…
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Webinar: Fiduciary duties and going concern: how responsibilities of charities are changing
In the last six months we have all become accustomed to remote working with many charities having to embrace digital like never before. This new way of working can present its own issues. In the second webinar of our…
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Webinar: Managing investments in unprecedented times
As charities continue to struggle with the widespread financial implications of the Covid-19 crisis, Senior Investment Director Michael Turner addresses the current challenges of navigating Charities and their investment…
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Charity strategy and impact report 2021 - What does a good strategy look like?
Effective strategy-setting makes it clear exactly what a charity is trying to achieve, and whether or not it has achieved it. This helps demonstrate efficacy to an external audience, enabling senior management and…
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Taking time to listen
Alison Lowe, Touchstone’s CEO and Darren De Souza, Community Health Development Manager talk about the Touchstone Loves Food initiative, the charity’s open and trusting culture, and the power of really listening.
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Supporting vulnerable communities around the world
Just a Drop’s Head of Fundraising and Communications Brendan Hanlon reflects on the importance of acting quickly, being open to new opportunities and always personalising appeals.
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Why board diversity boosts resilience
Fiona McAuslan of Getting on Board tells the story of how one charity’s journey to a more diverse board has led to transformational change.
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Building funding for the future
James Banks, Chief Executive of London Funders, talks about the fortitude of civil society, passionately committed funders, and how the pandemic has paved the way for a more collaborative and resilient funding…
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Strategic thinking in the face of adversity
Many charities have shown inspiring levels of innovation and fortitude during the COVID-19 crisis. We reflect on some of the key factors that could help organisations build resilience and adapt for the future.
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Report on Palm Oil
Palm oil is the most widely produced vegetable oil in the world and its extensive use in food manufacturing has transformed modern diets, reducing human consumption of other more harmful trans-fats. It’s featured within…
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Making an Impact as a Small Charity
Who said only the big are mighty? As a boutique investment manager that leads the way in responsible and sustainable investing we know that not to be true. Given our unique charity ownership, and as part of…
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Why a global approach still makes sense for charity investors seeking responsible and sustainable income
At the start of this year we wrote a blog on why charity investors should adopt a global approach in order to achieve responsible income and growth. Six months on the thesis still stands, proven by the ongoing strong…
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The need for volunteers in the charity sector
Volunteering isn’t just great for charities, it’s beneficial to the individual too. Research from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales , shows that the main benefits are: It provides a good balance…
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Are internal financial controls stressing you out?
Fraud is perhaps the biggest fear of most charities. It’s not just the financial impact, it’s the resulting reputational damage, potential loss of staff and volunteers, and inability to deliver certain services to the…
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Why every charity needs to embrace cloud-based accounting
Finance should never be a standalone function. Its primary purpose is to support the whole charity – not just to manage the accounts, but to provide advice, recommendations and reassurance to help the executive team and…
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What you can learn from EmployabilityUK’s digital transformation
There’s no denying that lockdown has hit us hard. According to research from the Institute of Fundraising , 92% of charities reported a fall in trading income during the lockdown period. With research from the Small…
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How to form the most effective board for your charity (1)
“Charities are the eyes, ears and conscience of society. They mobilise, they provide, they inspire, they advocate and they unite.” [1] Charities are essential to our everyday lives because they level the playing field…
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What makes a good annual report for your small UK charity?
We’re coming up to the time of the year that most charities dread – time to prepare the annual accounts and the annual report. Typically, this task falls to the finance team, which means it’s not unusual for it to become…
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Engaging sponsors for your small UK charity
There are two types of sponsors that every charity needs to engage if they are to thrive. The first are sponsors who give money so the charity has the funding it needs to continue providing services to beneficiaries…
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Rising Girl, the story so far…
Guest Post by Emb Hashmi, Award winning Journalist at BBC , Podcast Host and Social Entrepreneur. Rising Girl started its journey as a short four-minute film focusing on one young girls struggle risking life and limb to…
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7 inspirational stories our world needs more of
While I’m passionate about charities and the important work they do, it’s specifically newly established, small and medium-size charities that I’m keen to support. Often started in response to personal circumstances or a…
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The first rule of VAT for charities – assume nothing!
Guest post by Les Howard of vatadvice.org It is often said that the first rule of VAT is to assume nothing! In the charity sector, this is especially true. One assumption that is incorrect is that charities don’t have to…
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Why you shouldn’t set up a charity
Most charities are set up with the best of intentions – often in memorial for a loved one, to support a need in the community, or because there’s a specific cause to champion. But what people don’t realise is just how…
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Happy 4th Birthday! 6(ish) lessons I've learned along the way Happy 4th Birthday! 6(ish) lessons I’ve learned along the way
My dream was to set up a business and help small UK charities. And despite the wraith of Covid-19, which decimated the charitable sector, last year our growth was ridiculous to the point where my team is now 4 strong. In…
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Explaining VAT Exemptions
Guest post by Les Howard of vatadvice.org There are six VAT exempt ‘Groups’ which specifically apply to the charitable sector. Each has its nuances. Advisers must understand that exemption depends on two factors…
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Human capital is indeed capital
One of the side effects of the Covid-19 crisis has been to bring human capital into the spotlight as one of the few variables capable of playing a key role, first in protecting the economy and society and second, in…
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The issues surrounding responsible investment for charities
Many charities have led the way in ethical and responsible investing. They were pioneers of the negative exclusionary screens to avoid exposure to certain companies and sectors as well as the wider Environmental Social…
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A guide to responsible investing
The world of responsible investment is constantly moving, our guide outlines the latest developments in environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing and outlines how these are incorporated into our approach.
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Changes to auditing standards – the impact on your charity
We have all seen the headlines about large corporate collapses and questions about the role of the auditor, so it comes as no surprise that auditing standards have been enhanced. However, it is an unfortunate fact that…
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The income challenge in a higher inflation world
It will not be news for many trustees that finding income is a challenge. Structurally lower interest rates have created a long-term headwind, lowering the returns expected from bonds. Equity income had proved a useful…
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Investec Weekly Digest: One Hump or Two
Despite a wobbly start to last week’s trading, several indices posted new highs by the end of Friday. As with so many other things in the world today, views from commentators about whether we are in a bubble or not are…
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Webcast: An Introduction to Thoughtful Investing
In this webcast we discuss the increasing prominence of ESG factors when investing and how to ensure your assets are aligned to your values so they are actually used to make a positive difference. We call this approach…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Passing the Baton
Financial markets feel as though they are in the process of negotiating a baton-pass as we shift from a world of tight COVID-related restrictions to one that is more normal; and it is proving to be a tricky manoeuvre…
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Charity Times Awards 2021
Charity Times Awards 2021 We are delighted to have been shortlisted to win a 2021 Charity Times Award for the Boutique Investment Management Award. About the 22nd annual Charity Times Awards: Celebrating best practice in…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Devil in the Delta
The rapid spread of the Delta variant is forcing some recalibration of expectations for the pace of the economic recovery. Investors are faced with having to triangulate between infection rates, the percentage of…
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Investec Weekly Digest: A Half of Two Quarters
As we wrap up the first half of the year it's clear that there were some distinct differences between the first three months and the second. The individual components of financial markets pay little heed to the calendar…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Fast Lane, Slow Lane
The vaccination programs of each country are moving at a different speeds. Globally the vaccination rollout is working like a multi-lane highway, in which the faster countries are not limited domestically by the slow…
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When amber is green and not red.
Helping charities understand the difference between guidance and the law. (Click below for more. 2 minute read)
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Investec Weekly Digest: The More We Know... The Less You Know
Successful investing is about balancing the probabilities of a range of possible outcomes. Some market developments in the last couple of weeks are testament to the opinion that while death and taxes may be inevitable…
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The Return of Inflation: A Conundrum?
As with millions of other bank account holders, I have recently received correspondence from my bank warning over the prospect of negative interest rates. In effect, banks wish to charge me for holding cash on deposit…
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Whose money is it anyway?
If you find that your charity is not certain who controls your money, get in touch with us and we can offer you some low cost, independent help to get you back into the driving seat.
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Investec Weekly Digest: Unreliable Narrators
Amongst investors and economists right now, the fight for narrative dominance is between the inflationists and the deflationists. At any one time there are any number of competing narratives for us to choose from…
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The link between rail pricing policy and working from home
The link between rail pricing policy and working from home As the UK vaccination rollout unfolds at pace and the economic recovery gathers momentum, the debate over the impact of working from home on office demand…
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Investec Weekly Digest: All at C
Covid, central banks, containers, chips, cardboard, corporation tax, carbon, commodities, correlations and cryptocurrencies - all things influencing markets currently seem to start with 'c'. Our Head of Investment…
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Demystifying Christian ethical investment
We more than manage As a kid I wore a ridiculously bright-coloured wristband with WWJD? inscribed around it. It served as a reminder of a Sunday-school lesson on the topic of God’s sovereignty and will over my life, and…
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Investec Weekly Digest: The Bullwhip
A year ago consumer demand dramatically dropped, and when supply and demand become desynchronised it's much harder to forecast, which is reflected in rising market-derived inflation expectations. Our Head of Investment…
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Investment Outlook - May 2021
In the May issue: we explain why inflation may run hotter for some time, but should move back later in the year.
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The Cryptocurrency Mirage
Our stance is clear – cryptocurrencies are speculative with no meaningful valuation foundation; what’s more, they are associated with criminal activities and environmental damage. Bitcoin, the posterchild of the crypto…
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Thematic Report: Health & Wellbeing
In the last year, healthcare and wellbeing have been thrown into the spotlight by the global health pandemic, highlighting the strengths and importance of many health-related services. As a key positive investment theme…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Welcome to VUCA
Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity - a description of the current investing world. 'We’ve seen this all before' mentality may be why markets have been able to weather a number of potentially shocking…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Market Commentary May
Equity markets chalked up another positive month in April to build upon the gains made in the first quarter of the year, but for many investors it remains difficult to shake off a sense of impending doom, especially as…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Time Travelling
Despite new technologies and the more widespread availability of information, investors’ interests are not greatly different today than they were 50 years ago. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn Evans talks about…
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Digital connectivity and real estate: Transformational change is coming - Batteries
Batteries can deliver sustainable, resilience and cheaper energy Batteries support the feasibility of intermittent on-site renewable energy. Solar panels, for example, only produce power during daylight hours but…
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Digital connectivity and real estate: Transformational change is coming - Power
Power is becoming a determining locational driver UK businesses and households spend some £55bn on power annually [1] . As more companies integrate technology into the way they work, their power demand rises, and this…
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Retail warehousing returns on the rise…and outperform offices
Over the past 12 months the UK economy has become more resilient to lockdowns and figures just published showed that GDP grew by 0.4% month-on-month in February with the expectation that the rate of growth is…
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Daily traded fund outflows cast a misleading picture for property
On the face of it, the figures from the daily traded property funds paint a negative picture for commercial property with outflows of £128 million in January, £314 million in February and a record £589 million in March…
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Mayfair Capital's James Thornton comments on improved prospects for UK real estate relative to bonds and consensus forecasts against an improving economic outlook
In response to rising expectations of a stronger recovery in economic growth and higher inflation in Q2, bond yields rose in Q1 leading to a 13.5% fall in values. This was the worst quarterly performance since 1980 with…
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Six ways to capitalise on post-Covid property trends
The article below was published in Expert Investor Europe on 16th February 2021. Access their on-line version here or read the full article on the PITCH website here
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Does a charity need a specialist charity investment manager?
Some simple reasons why charities should appoint an investment manager who understands the particular needs of charities.
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Writing and Reviewing Your Charity's Investment Policy
Click on the link below to read our top tips on writing and reviewing your Charity's investment policy.
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Investec Weekly Digest: What's Cooking?
Like cooking, investing has a library worth of books available setting out rules and strategies that 'guarantee' investment success, but which, in reality, will probably only guarantee royalties for the authors. Our Head…
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Investec's Market Update Webinar: The Road to Reopening
Just a reminder that our Market Update webinar, The Road to Reopening, hosted by our Head of Investment Strategy, and Weekly Digest author, John Wyn-Evans, is happening on the 5th May at 15:00. As we gradually exit…
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The Outlook for UK Fixed Interest
Summary and conclusions The Bank of England’s Official Rate, often described as the Base Rate is presently 0.1%. The yield on government securities with two years to maturity was 0.04% at the close of business on…
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Sayer Vincent Newsletter
We’ve a bit to catch up on – so we have a bumper edition of the SV newsletter including court decisions on Kids Company and sleep-ins, Charity Commission updates and the latest tax news. We also have an important…
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Investec Weekly Digest: How Much Can You Afford to Withdraw in Retirement?
You’ve spent your whole life saving for retirement and now it’s time to enjoy the proceeds of your hard work. But it’s difficult to enjoy your wealth to the fullest if you are concerned that it may run out. Spending…
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How to get the most out of your relationship with your investment manager
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Investec Weekly Digest: Risky Business
Risk assessment plays an important part of decision-making, and in today's Covid world, governments and individuals are having to make some serious risk assessments, but what does this mean from an investment…
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Vaccines – guidance for charities as employers
As the vaccine programme has extended to the wider adult population following the government’s priority listing issued late in 2020, organisations will be starting to look at reopening their workplaces in line with the…
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Bates Wells Briefing for Charities & Social Enterprises
Our weekly round up of news and updates from across the sector here
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Charities going digital: top 10 data privacy tips
At the beginning of this year, Charity Finance Group reported on widespread innovation and invention through the charity sector as a result of Covid-19. That trend is expected to continue through 2021 in the charity…
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Annual Stewardship Report
As thoughtful investors, we carry out a range of stewardship activities. For example, we actively vote at company AGMs on issues such as executive pay and director re-appointment. We also use our influence as investors…
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A Guide to Charity Investment
With our Guide to Charity Investment we outline what the role of a trustee entails, along with giving you some pointers as to how you can fulfil your legal obligations and see your organisation prosper and achieve its…
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Charities Reshaped by the Pandemic
Download Reshaped by the Pandemic.pdf
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The Return-to-Work Process: how to effectively prepare for the workplace reopening?
Charities have reason to be optimistic as they prepare to reopen the workplace in accordance with the Government’s four-stage Roadmap. The Roadmap has provided some much-needed certainty as employers finally have some…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Springing Forward
The approaching end of the first quarter seems an appropriate time for reflection on what has been an action-packed year so far. John Wyn-Evans discusses the last year and looks to the future in this edition of Weekly…
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Charities update
Welcome to this month's edition of the Withers Charities team e-alert. A little encouragement is something we could all use after the long winter of lockdown. Some is to be found, perhaps, in the oncoming spring…
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Partnerships, mergers and collaboration: what does the future hold pot-pandemic?
In our latest webinar, Charles Mesquita of Quilter Cheviot chairs a thought-provoking panel and is joined by James Saunders of Moore Kingston Smith, Catherine Rustomji of Browne Jacobson LLP, Sonya Ruparel of Turn2Us and…
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Granting Leave for Employee Holidays
Since the Prime Minister set out his roadmap in February to gently ease the lockdown restrictions in England, many are getting excited about the prospect of potentially having a holiday abroad this year. Based on the…
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Can charities and not for profit organisations require their employees and workers to have a COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccinations are currently a huge talking point and with the NHS and other workers (such as in the care sector) being required to have it, there is a question in the minds of many individuals working in other sectors…
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Is your charity/not for profit organisation prepared for the reforms to the IR35 off-payroll working?
Introduction With the reforms to the IR35 Off-payroll legislation coming into effect from 6 April 2021, many charities and not for profit organisations may be unsure whether the new tax changes will apply to them and…
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The importance of investing for charities
In our latest video, Hugh Draycott, Investment Manager, North West, looks at the key investment considerations for charity trustees.
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The impact of coronavirus on investment income
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Interview with Farms for City Children
Children’s author Michael Morpugo and his wife Clare share their thoughts on their charity work ambitions and the challenges of the pandemic
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BDO Charity reserves review
Jill Halford shares the key findings from BDO’s third charity reserves review and the importance of a charity’s free reserves
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The Search for income
Michael Craven (Head of Charities, Yorkshire) discusses the pandemic’s impact on investment income and what this likely means for the charity sector
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Investec Webinar: Charities Taking Action in a Net Zero World (1)
How can you measure your carbon footprint within your existing operations? What steps can you take to reduce your carbon footprint and what can we learn from existing charities? How can you align your investment…
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Christian Ethics in Practice July 2020
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Investec Weekly Digest: FAITal Attraction
If you were to sum up investors’ current preoccupations in just three words, they would be: Inflation, Duration and Rotation. John Wyn-Evans discusses this and more on Investec's Weekly Digest. Click below to read the…
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Tax justice: The intentionally overlooked part of ESG
2020 has witnessed the acceleration of a number of major societal changes – the shift to e-commerce, remote working, and the transition to a lower carbon economy, to name a few. The acceleration of these trends has, in…
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The Climate Emergency – How Can Charities use their Investments to Respond to the Challenge?
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Introduction to Epworth
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Christian Ethics in Practice January 2021
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Don't miss our latest webinar on Income vs. total return
Knowing the best available investment options is important for your charity. Andrew Zazzi and Victoria Walke r will explore the advantages and disadvantages of an income-only versus total return investment approach and…
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Fast fashion and the legacy of a pandemic
2020 proved devastating for countless communities, industries and nations. The fashion retail sector has been hit hard, facing store closures and a drop in customers as more and more people were plunged into economic…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Happy Anniversary
The prospect of a post-lockdown burst of activity fueled by pent-up demand is real, and remains one of the key drivers of relative performance within financial markets. Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn-Evans…
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The Charity Governance Code: Refresh
As part of our programme of support for charities, and in response to the pandemic, we have co-created a series of webinars. The webinars are designed to help trustees through this period of uncertainty by covering a…
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Market Bubbles
After the dramatic events of last year, 2021 has continued in exuberant fashion for equity markets with the MSCI World Index already up 5% year to date. Headlines have been dominated by the extraordinary tussle between…
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The Mining Carbon Conundrum
Is the sector an enemy or ally in the climate fight? As the economic picture grows stronger, we're seeing a rise in commodity prices and shares in mining companies outperforming the markets in which they are traded. Some…
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EIRIS Foundation Responsible Investment in Charity Pooled
It is hard to overstate the importance of the charity sector in the drive to create a better society, in the UK, and worldwide. In the short-term the work of charities has never been more needed as we face the immediate…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Five Lessons in Gender Equality From Business Leaders
In recognition of International Women’s Day, Barbara-Ann King, Chief Commercial Officer of Investec Wealth & Investment, asked a panel of guests to share what they’ve learned about gender equality – and diversity more…
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Revenge tourism, safety, and the spectre of inflation
https://www.yokeandco.com/articles/152-revenge-tourism-safety-and-the-spectre-of-inflation
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Charity investment training hub
One of the most important roles as a charity trustee is to manage your charity’s funds responsibly. Click the link below to find resources designed to provide you with an understanding of charity investment management as…
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Going head to head: income only versus total return
In light of recent events and current economic circumstances, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of income-only and total return investment approaches for charities. Click here to read more…
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Bonds may be causing an imbalance in charity portfolios
Given the current environment and the high prevalence of negative bond yields, we look at ways in which charities can construct a diversified portfolio that aims to provide more attractive risk/return metrics than the…
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Reserves help to keep doors open at home-from-home for families of sick children
Trustee Carol Hart and head of fundraising Janet Pennington explain how, despite the pandemic, Alder Hey Family House Trust is still providing accommodation for the families of seriously ill children. Click here to read…
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Looking ahead with purpose
While the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination programme offers some light at the end of the tunnel, research published at the end of last year suggests that the short-term outlook for the UK’s charities remains very…
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Developing effective Impact Investing partnerships
There has been a subtle, but insistent shift in the way a growing number of charities are looking to allocate their capital. We are finding an increasing recognition that investment should have purpose as well as…
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Total Return for Permanently Endowed Charities
Charities will be familiar with the problems created by persistent low interest rates: is it possible to create income for today’s beneficiaries while also generating returns for future beneficiaries? The total return…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Now or Never Never
Is a boom similar to late 1999 possible? There are those who think so, and the unrelenting flows into funds focused on innovation, disruptive technologies and carbon reduction, for example, are testament to that…
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How Hallidays can help your charity
With over 175 years’ experience and 50 charity clients we’re the people to help you in this difficult financial climate. Learn more about how we can support you by visiting our website and reading our success stories.
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Property Market and PITCH Fund Webinar
Here is the link to the webinar
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Investec Webinar: Monthly Economic Q&A - Spring Budget Preview
Our next webinar will take place at 10:00 on Wednesday 24 February and will be an hour-long discussion about what we can expect when UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak announces this year's Spring Budget on 3…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Lost in SPACs
Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn-Evans discusses how Tesla deciding to “invest” $1.5 billion of its spare cash in Bitcoin has led to what one commentator described as a “bubble within a bubble” and elevated…
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Investec Webinar: John-Wyn Evans Market Update
Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn-Evans, delves into the challenges that face you and your clients along the road to economic recovery and market normality. Focusing on the composition of market returns for 2021…
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Investec Weekly Digest: Market Commentary
Our Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn-Evans reflects on global trends across different markets from last month. Click below to read the article (5 min read).
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Investec Weekly Digest: Mutations, mutations, mutations
Virus mutations are a fact of life and while we do not know when mutations will occur, we do know that they will. Investec's equity analyst Dr. Jimmy Muchechetere explains exactly why and how mutations happen, and what…
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Investec Weekly Digest: FAQs with John Wyn-Evans
Investec's Head of Investment Strategy, John Wyn-Evans, unpacks frequently asked questions covering inflation, market bubbles, government debt/taxes, negative interest rates, cryptocurrency and more. Click below to read…
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How can you be a socially responsible investor?
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Many emerging markets are at the back of the vaccine queue
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Brexit: The end of the beginning
Winston Churchill once said, “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning”. The future relationship between the UK and the EU is considered by our…
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Maximizing impact
If impact lies in delivering benefit to beneficiaries, there are more impediments than simply not aligning money and mission.
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Selling the family silver
What good are reserves if you never use them when you need them?
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No one has ever become poor by giving
A few observations of charities during the extraordinary year that was 2020
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The hidden costs of charity investment and things you should consider
Some insight to the problems of assessing investment management costs that are often overlooked by charities and their trustees.
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Taking Care of Yourself and Others
Taking care of yourself and others We are all familiar with stress and the impact it can have on our wellbeing. 2020 was an uncertain time for many of us and has shown us that we can’t predict what is around the corner…
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Preparing for Flood Warnings across the UK
Preparing for flood warnings across the UK After what was an extremely different year to any we’ve experienced before, it’s easy to forget that before the first national lockdown, we were subjected to some of the worst…
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Hardening Market
COVID-19 and the impact on insurers losses Have you seen an increase in your insurance costs and the cover that is now available to you from your broker and insurers? Insurance rates have been on the increase for the…
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Cyber Insurance and Cloud based services
Cyber-attacks are on the increase With more people working from home, it is more critical than ever before to ensure you have the correct and adequate IT protection in place. Criminal activity is varied and can have a…
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Towergate Covid Hub
Towergate Insurance are here to support Charity Intelligence members during this difficult time. In March 2020, we launched our dedicated COVID-19 information centre which has been regularly updated throughout the year…
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Digital connectivity and real estate: Transformational change is coming - Data centres
Data centres provide the infrastructure to a digital future As society becomes more digitally connected the need to store, manage, process and transfer information grows exponentially. This fuels demand for the buildings…
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Digital connectivity and real estate: Transformational change is coming - 5G
5G will revolutionise industries and hence Real Estate 5G is the next generation of wireless network technology. It will enable smart cities, buildings, autonomous vehicles and many other technological innovations. It…
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Working in partnership to improve working conditions
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Protecting your charity’s income: is now the time to adopt a total return approach?
A total return approach to taking distributions from a portfolio gives stability and flexibility – and it also allows for wider exposure to attractive asset classes
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Annual Review for Charities
In its Annual Review for Charities, Quilter Cheviot puts last year into perspective, with expert opinion and articles on investment, finance, and legal matters, as well as insight into the wider context within which…
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CCLA's Mental Health Benchmark
As investors, we try to be responsible stewards of our clients’ assets; we also aim to invest in successful companies. Pushing for progress in workplace mental health is a moral and economic necessity. The Covid-19…
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Academies Annual Update | Managing and maintaining regulatory compliance and governance procedures
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Managing charity property in uncertain times
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Addressing the impact of COVID-19 in charity sector reporting
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Adapting financial governance in light of COVID-19
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Academy Accounts Workshop | Part Two
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Academy Accounts Workshop | Part One
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Academy Accounts Workshop | Fund Accounting
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Academies Annual Update | Technical Update: ESFA Academies Accounts Direction and Financial Handbook
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Academy Accounts Workshop | COVID-19 Bulletin
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Trustee Training: Impact Management
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Achieving effective governance in partnerships in International NGOs
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Webinar - Trustee Training: Regulatory and governance update - part two
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Webinar - Trustee Training: Regulatory and governance update - part one
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Recent case law and VAT issues for the charity sector
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Locked down but not out
On 31 October, Halloween, Prime Minister Boris Johnson spooked the nation with the announcement of a 2nd national lockdown in England, starting on the 5 November, to help reduce the spread of the resurgent coronavirus…
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Gold – Is now the time to shine?
At the time of writing, the price of gold is trading at around $1,900 per ounce 1 , having recently breached the $2,000 mark for the first time in history. What is the gold price telling us from an economic perspective…
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COVID-19 may have taken the sting out of a potential no deal Brexit tale
‘No deal’ is not on many people’s Christmas list but, given cheap valuations for both equities and sterling, it may not be quite as disastrous for investors as some have suggested.
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Reaching for the stars: a sustained rally in Hong Kong-listed stocks?
China’s first solo mission to explore Mars is set to begin in February when its Tianwen-1 probe reaches the red planet’s orbit ahead of an eventual landing of a rover on the surface. Hong Kong-listed equities could also…
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CCLA leads the investor response to Compass Group regarding failed food parcels
We are concerned by the disproportionate impact COVID-19 has had on the poorest members of our society. All children have the right to access nutritious diets to support healthy development. Our letter to Compass group…
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Bitcoin: bearer bonds for the 21st century
Read more here: www.rathbones.com/knowledge-and-insight/bitcoin-bearer-bonds-21st-century
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Charity Law and Governance e-alert - Winter 2020
Welcome A lot has happened in the world since our last update so we start this edition with an overview of what we have learned during the pandemic so far. We also look at a couple of recent cases: the first of which…
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AREF Annual Awards 2020
We were delighted to receive the news that PITCH has finished joint runner up in the category of Investor’s Award for Outstanding Achievement. About the AREF Annual Awards 2020: The Association has made a number of…
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Astute investors should be active in office property
Astute investors should be active in office property Until we see the Covid-19 pandemic brought under control – either through a vaccine or a functioning test and trace system – meaningful re-occupation of UK offices is…
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Mayfair Capital’s Property Income Trust for Charities increases its exposure to logistics
Mayfair Capital’s Property Income Trust for Charities increases its exposure to logistics Click here to view the full PDF version, PITCH - Stoke Acquisition November 2020. Mayfair Capital’s Property Income Trust for…
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When is a charitable gift valid and how to spend £500 million? The National Fund decision
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . On 26 January 1928, Winston Churchill, then Chancellor of the Exchequer, issued a statement that: ‘… Within the last few days…
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Charities and COVID-19 – CIGA 2020 update: members’ meetings and relief from wrongful trading liability
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . While the government considered easing pandemic restrictions over Christmas, it seems that BEIS has been reflecting on further…
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Teachers’ Pension Scheme and Independent Schools – phased withdrawal proposals given the go-ahead
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . On 11 November 2020, the government published its response to its 2019 consultation on proposals to allow independent schools…
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Trustees’ week – how to be a secret superhero
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . To coincide with Trustees’ Week this week, the Charity Commission published five new 5-minute guides for charity trustees…
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Equality Act 2010 exceptions and charities – the Supreme Court decision in the Agudas Israel Housing Association case
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . On 16 October 2020, the Supreme Court gave judgment in the case of R (on the application of Z and another) (Appellants) v…
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Investec's Weekly Digest: Covid-19 Vaccines: Back to Normality?
Welcome to this week's edition of Investec's weekly digest; a topical in-house review of world stock markets and global economy.
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Socially Responsible Investing
We explore the main definitions within socially responsible investing, including environmental, social and governance (ESG) integration, sustainable and impact investing.
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A challenging time for charities
We spoke to four charities based in the Midlands about how they have been impacted by Covid-19.
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The quest for income in a post-pandemic world
The pandemic has caused a great deal of uncertainty for investors, especially those that rely on dividend income such as charities and the retired. What should they do to guarantee their income in post-Covid times?
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Rethinking passive in a changing world
Acting in a charity’s best interests: taking a closer look at the active vs passive debate
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Risk in an uncertain world
This article was written before the COVID-19 pandemic, and while this has totally overwhelmed all other risk considerations in the period, the risk process described below is more valid than ever. Charities with a…
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Biden win brings hope for some bipartisan agreement
Stimulus should be forthcoming and trade uncertainty relieved, even if Congress remains split Read more here: https://www.rathbones.com/knowledge-and-insight/biden-win-brings-hope-some-bipartisan-agreement
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Charities – Serious Incident Reporting During the Pandemic
In the midst of the immense strategic and financial challenges charities are currently tackling, it might be easy to overlook the requirement to report serious incidents to the Charity Commission. It can also be a…
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Should Charities Use Zoom?
There has been a lot of media coverage of the use of Zoom for online meetings during the Covid-19 lockdown. Charities are asking whether it is safe for them to use Zoom and other alternatives for vital communications…
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COVID-19 – Advice for Charities
Charities are at the forefront of the nation’s response to the current crisis, being vital to the delivery of much-needed services, many of which are now in even greater demand. Yet charities face particular…
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Investec's Weekly Digest: Election results and vaccines, and the impacts of both
Welcome to this week's edition of Investec's weekly digest; a topical in-house review of world stock markets and global economy
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Barclays Podcast: In conversation with Alexandre Mars
In this 30 minute interview Emma Turner, Head of our Philanthropy Service, is joined by Alexandre Mars who has been called the Bill Gates of Europe. Over the past 20 years, Alexandre has successfully launched and sold…
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Responsible Property Investing and Social Engagement - Good Money Week 2020
The social sustainability of our investments is important and we believe that we have an obligation to undertake business activities that will have a positive impact on those people who live, work and invest in those…
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Responsible Property Investing and Property Sustainability - Good Money Week 2020
We seek to embed Responsible Property Investment considerations into our processes even before an asset is acquired and many of the considerations that we have will echo the requirements of current or potential…
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Responsible Property Investing and PITCH's Ethical Approach - Good Money Week 2020
The Property Income Trust for Charities (PITCH) has always adhered to a responsible investment policy in the management and investment of the Fund, with a particular focus on the underlying charitable purpose of its…
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Investec's Weekly Digest
Welcome to this week's edition of Investec's weekly digest; a topical in-house review of world stock markets and global economy
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Link to Recording of Mayfair Capital Charity Investment Webinar - 24th September 2020
To watch a recording of the webinar, please follow this link. We were delighted to host the Mayfair Capital Charity Investment Webinar on Thursday 24th September 2020 from 14.00 to 15.00. This webinar replaced our…
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Responsible Property Investing at Industry Standard - Good Money Week 2020
Responsible Property Investing at Industry Standards - Good Money Week 2020 Mayfair Capital as the manager of the Property Income trust for Charities (PITCH) is committed to managing the Fund in a responsible way by…
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PITCH's Approach to Responsible Property Investing - Good Money Week 2020
Responsible investing is becoming increasingly important, but what does it mean and how does it impact investments? We will be sharing our approach to the subject this week, in support of #GoodMoneyWeek. Further details…
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Corporate transparency and register reform – impact of proposed companies house reforms on charities
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . On 18 September 2020, the government published its response to a 2019 consultation on proposals which, as the consultation…
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Charities and COVID-19 – an update on members’ meetings and the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . We reported in our blog of 1 July 2020 on the changes implemented by the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 (CIGA…
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Fundraising through commercial partnerships – some practical tips
This was authored by Sarah Williams , Legal Director, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . Fundraisers have, for a number of organisations, returned to the streets, and charities have found innovative ways to engage…
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Charities and judicial review
This was authored by Helen Fry , Senior Associate, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . The case of the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators attracted attention over the summer, when it was reported that the…
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The Law Commission’s charity law project – time for that Charities Bill?
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . Today (Monday 14 September 2020) marks the third anniversary of the Law Commission’s report, Technical Issues in Charity Law…
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Have your say on £2 billion charity rates relief – the Government’s business rates review
This was authored by Nicola Evans , Charities Counsel, for the BDB Pitmans Charity Law blog . On 21 July 2020, HM Treasury announced a call for evidence on its ‘fundamental review’ of the business rates system in…
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Investing in line with purpose and values
CCLA’s response to the Charity Commission’s consultation. There is no regulation to say that charities should have a responsible investment policy; and there is a widely held view that the law needs to be updated. We…
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The role of an investment policy
A concise investment policy provides a framework for investment decisions, capturing a charity’s overarching goals and long-term objectives. It is important to agree a strategy that focuses on the charity’s goals and is…
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Planet Papers: A responsible recovery
Can the world make positive social and environmental choices when rebuilding our economy from the coronavirus pandemic?
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Charity Matters: How sustainable business drives long-term value at Unilever
We spoke to Richard Williams, head of investor relations at Unilever, about the company’s approach to sustainability, how large corporates need to adapt to changing investor priorities, and the lessons others can learn…
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Charity Matters: Making environmental, social and governance concerns everybody’s business
What does a greater focus on environmental, social and governance goals mean for the companies we invest in on behalf of our charity clients, and how does Rathbones encourage them to uphold ESG standards? Read more
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Charity Matters: Do we need a more benign capitalism?
Embracing responsible capitalism and moving away from a ‘profit is everything’ philosophy can address issues of inequality in society and improve financial returns for investors. Read more
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We believe investment markets will be only as healthy as the people, communities and environments that support them.
CCLA has been leading engagement initiatives on mental wellbeing since 2019. Our aim is to encourage best practice in protecting employee mental health and to bridge the gap between companies and investors. The Covid-19…
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August Market Reflection
Although Covid case numbers continue to rise in Continental Europe as lockdowns ease and holiday travel increases, hospitalisations and mortality rates are far below the levels experienced at the peak of the outbreak…
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Smith and Williamson's Charity Insight Articles
A full list of our Charity Insight Articles can be found at this link under Related Content: https://smithandwilliamson.com/en/services/investment-management-charities/
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Responding to fraud in charities
Charities are not immune to fraud. In some instances charities are specifically targeted by criminals due to their perceived lack of controls and heavy reliance on trust based governance
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What do the Finance (No3) Bill 2018 and the 2018 Budget mean for charities?
A number of changes for the charity sector have been put forward by the UK government: - The simplification of the Gift Aid restriction on associated benefits; - An increase in the upper limit of non-primary purpose…
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A Crisis of Confidence
The Charity Commission has been tracking public confidence in the charitable sector for over a decade. It is currently at its lowest level since monitoring began. Scandals involving the sector have taken their toll…
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Jargon busting: what you really need to know
The investment industry is fond of jargon. Deciphering this alphabet soup of acronyms can give the impression that investing is complex and impenetrable. It may even deter people from making the best long-term decisions…
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Five ways your investment process can go wrong
Even the best-laid portfolio plans can be derailed by financial market caprices, but charity investors can give themselves a better chance of achieving stable, long-term returns by avoiding a number of common mistakes…
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The climate for investing
Climate change has become a global emergency, with individuals, corporations, charities and policymakers increasingly recognising the urgency of tackling carbon emissions. More and more investors believe that they have…
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How comparable are investment manager returns?
In spite of the best efforts of the regulator, and warnings that ‘past performance is no guide to the future’, trustees continue to put recent strong performance front and centre when picking an investment manager. In…
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Getting your investment policy right
A well thought-out investment policy is essential to achieving your charity’s goals and demonstrating that Trustees have fulfilled their duty of care. Click here to read the full article…
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Environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations are changing the investment landscape. Charities are consequently under increasing pressure from stakeholders to draw these considerations into their investment…
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Dividends Update
As companies have sought to protect their cashflow in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, dividend pay-outs to shareholders have been widely cut. We bring our dividend forecasts up to date and explore what this means for…
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My terrible mistake!
In honour of Trustees’ Week , here’s a cautionary tale. So there I was, sitting in front of the Investment Committee of an established foundation, when I simply said “with such a long time horizon as yours, you can take…
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The links between lunch and risk
There is a famous study in which judges are found to hand out harsher sentences before lunch rather than after lunch . In the study, decisions that are taken by a group of Parole Board judges are tracked according to how…
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Where’s the ‘F’ in ESG?
We too easily forget the progress that has been made on ESG over the last decade, to the extent that I suspect that we have forgotten what the ‘G’ in ESG originally stood for. It was ‘G’, for Governance, and it was…
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How do charities approach investing in line with their purpose and values?
The Charity Commission recently published a blog post that discusses how charities may approach investment in line with their purpose and values. They discuss the historic focus on gaining the best financial return…
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Short of investment income? Some suggestions
Investors who rely on dividends and property income to fund their spending will be looking at the next twelve months with some trepidation as company after company cuts or abandons its dividend to preserve cash. Property…
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Comparing statistics in a Covid-19 world
Many charities will have received investment reports recently, outlining the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on their endowment portfolio. Despite the shocking impact the virus has inflicted globally, thanks to the…
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Live after Lockdown
The initial shock of the lockdown in March to combat Covid-19 was a big blow to society and we abruptly got used to staying at home, adapting to living and working in a different way. After two months, we are now…
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Is Total Return still too terrifying?
Many charities that rely on investment income are having to make hard choices about their finances for this year and next. According to Newton Investment Management, the vast majority of charity investors anticipate a…
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Nagitating the bumps
Ganesh, the ever-popular Hindu deity, is famous for his ability to dismantle obstacles, doubtless because he is gifted with the head of an elephant. We rarely write about markets, even at a time as strange as this…
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What We Did During The Global Pandemic
We are content that the majority of our fund investments have outperformed their benchmarks in the first half of the year, a pleasing continuation from 2019. But aside from the actual relative performance delivered from…
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July Market Reflection
The equity market recovery stalled in July in the face of deteriorating news on the number of new Covid-19 cases, notably in the sunbelt states of the United States. This was exacerbated by renewed, but localised…
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Sustainability. Are we all on the same page?
When it comes to sustainability are we using the same word to describe activities that are inherently at odds with each other, or not? Sustainability has become a popular word of late, however, the meaning of…
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Coronavirus: Updates for the UK Charity Sector
New guidance to support the return of public fundraising With the recent easing of restrictions, the Fundraising Regulator has published guidance to support charities who are now considering resuming some of those…
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The UK’s biggest charities’ free reserves were falling even before the COVID-19 pandemic
This is the key finding of our third Charity reserves review. On average, charities were found to hold just two months of operating expenditure in reserves, down from three months in 2017. Our review has also found that…
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Too Low For Zero
Setbacks from the latest market wobble which have been caused by worries about the speed of economic recovery, the potential for a further acceleration in Covid cases and some political risks, so far look to be…
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Learning To Live With The Worry
In financial markets, in any normal year we would now be turning our full attention to the second quarter results season. This year we remain more than a little distracted by other events, but the earnings are still…
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The coronavirus crisis has affected all charities
As part of our programme of support for charities, and in response to the pandemic, we have co-created a series of webinars. The webinars are designed to help trustees through this period of uncertainty by covering a…
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The Next Wave
Short-term activity data is going to look very healthy in terms of month-to-month growth thanks to continued easing and shops beginning to reopen. If ever there were something to illustrate that the gradual easing of…
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Mental health during Covid-19
CCLA initiated its mental health engagement programme in early 2019. Since then, the Covid-19 crisis has swept across the globe, lending a greater level of urgency to the campaign. A combination of obligatory remote…
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Cazenove Launch Charities Online Trustee Training
Launching our Online Trustee Training course "Trustees have overall responsibility for the investment of a charity’s funds. This means that they have a crucial role to play in making strategic decisions about how to use…
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Market Commentary June
As the UK enters its third full calendar month of lockdown, many could be forgiven for thinking that things really aren’t too bad. Government income support schemes combined with forbearance on certain loan payments…
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Conducting an Investment Manager Review
With a number of different investment managers out there, where should you start with your selection process? Selecting an investment manager can be time consuming for all those involved, so you will want to ensure that…
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May Market Reflection
John Wyn-Evans, Investec Wealth & Investment’s Head of Investment Strategy reflects on May’s market performance with his latest monthly observations. The confidence that investors rediscovered during April’s equity…
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COVID-19 BlackRock Investment Update
Market uncertainty around the potential for contagion of the coronavirus (COVID-19) is dominating global markets. The spread of the virus globally has reached pandemic proportions that will likely result in large…
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Interview with Catriona Williams of Children in Wales
David Myrddin-Evans talks to the recently retired Chief Executive about her distinguished career. Click on the link to read the full article…
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Charity collaboration with others
Robert Nieri explores a hypothetical scenario where a charity looks to engage with the business world in response to the climate emergency. Click on the link to read the full article…
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Value vs. Growth and what it means when investing for income
Alex Hulkhory discusses the different investment styles and what these can mean for charities seeking income. Click on the link to read the full article…
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How can your reserves policy help your resilience?
Gillian Benjamin highlights the importance of having a reserves policy, particularly in times of economic uncertainty. Click on the link to read the full article…
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The challenge of climate change - profit vs. planet?
Paul Mathias examines the current thinking on climate change and the implications for charity investors. Click on the link to read the full article…
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Remembering bear markets past
Guy Foster, our Head of Research, reflects on the last two bear markets and the lessons they provide for investors today. Click on the link to read the full article…
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A reflection of a crisis on charity investment
Much has been said of the extreme shock the Covid-19 pandemic crisis has inflicted on the charitable sector in the UK. No doubt estimates for the initial 12 weeks of lockdown of a £1bn shortfall, even after the £750m…
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How the coronavirus is impacting small charities
All organisation across the UK are currently being impacted by covid-19, including small charities which provide crucial support during this difficult time. According to the Small Charities Coalition, small charities…
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Webinar: Managing investments in unprecedented times (1)
As charities continue to struggle with the widespread financial implications of the Covid-19 crisis, Senior Investment Director Michael Turner addresses the current challenges of navigating Charities and their investment…
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Ruffer Review 2019
Read the first edition of the Ruffer Review, a selection of thought pieces from across the business. It covers a range of topics from natural capital to behavioural finance and inflation.
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Ruffer Review 2020
The latest copy of the Ruffer Review is now available to download from our website. It covers everything from a new Cold war to the likely impact of the post-crisis surge in government spending.
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Ruffer Radio - episode 1
This week we have launched Ruffer Radio , a series of podcasts in which we’ll be exploring the investment universe and sharing our interpretation of what’s going on. In Episode 1, Investment Director Duncan MacInnes…
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Ask a Charity Fund Manager
To help charities understand the impact Covid-19 is having on their investments, the EdenTree Charity Team published an open invite for questions about our funds or the wider investment market. The anonymised questions…
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What Coronavirus means to Charities
There’s no denying that the coronavirus pandemic will have thrown many charity’s operational and financial plans into disarray, and possibly on a number of fronts simultaneously. This comes at a time when there is…
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What to expect when you're having your audit remotely
Due to current social distancing restrictions, everyone is required to work from home wherever possible. This means that audit work undertaken for the foreseeable future is being done remotely. How will this be…
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How to be a good trustee during a period of rapid change
Fleur Holden, Partner By the time you are reading my article, events in the external social and economic environment will have moved on considerably. The current pace of change means that as fast as we are thinking about…
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Weekly Digest
Welcome to this weeks edition of weekly digest; a topical in-house review of world stock markets and global economy.
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Coronavirus: Philanthropy and charities
With the Coronavirus crisis now officially a pandemic by World Health Organization standards, there is nowhere that will remain unaffected by it. The role of charities and philanthropy is likely to be key, but not…
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Charities and Coronavirus: Reflections on the sector following the 2008 financial crisis
It is impossible to predict the extent of the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on our societies, but the role of charities and philanthropy in responding will be key. Whilst the circumstances of the economic crash in…
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Charities, Coronavirus and Regulatory Compliance
(1) Charity Commission Filings The Charity Commission has issued a welcome statement that its approach to regulation will be as flexible and pragmatic as possible in the public interests during the coronavirus outbreak…
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Coronavirus: key government measures to assist organisations
Although at the time of writing a charity sector specific support package has not yet been announced, operational charities can benefit from a range of government measures that have been introduced to help organisations…
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trustEnews
Read the latest trustEnews trustEnews is an online news and information service aimed at trustees. We will be highlighting the key issues and news affecting the charity sector, with the aim of helping trustees to make…
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We all need LUV
After the ongoing pandemic crisis impacts on the economy, the question is what shape will the recovery be; L, U or V shaped? No one knows, but it’s a pretty hopeful wish if you expect it to return to the 2019 year-end…
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Investing through the Pandemic
Some things will stay the same, but a lot will change. There is no doubt that we are living (and investing) in extraordinary times. A global pandemic grips the world and dystopian projections of an apocalyptic afterlife…
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The Just Transition (1)
The Just Transition is an idea that emerged out of trade union movements, has been advocated by environmental justice groups, and has resonated across the political spectrum. So much so that COP 24 in Katowice, Poland…
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How Endowments and Foundations can approach the world of repsonsible and sustainable investing
David Osfield shares his responses from a recent interview with a climate change consultant. - See more at: https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/finance/david-osfield-how-endowments-and-foundations-can-approach-the-world-of-re…
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Active or Passive: Which strategy is suited to ESG investing?
With more than half of the net £1.3bn invested in sustainable strategies in January being allocated to a single tracker fund, the debate surrounding whether active or passive strategies are better suited to ESG investing…
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The Future of Road Transport
Transport is key to providing people with the access that they need to lead full and involved lives and therefore plays an important societal role. However, in order to be sustainable, transport needs to do more than…
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An update on EdenTree’s charity funds
Following last week’s update from our CEO Sue Round, we thought it helpful to provide additional commentary from our Charity Fund Managers on how we have responded to the recent market turbulence. We hope that you find…
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An update on markets and recent volatility for charity investors
With the continued proliferation of the coronavirus, the world is clearly facing a health emergency which is unprecedented in most of our lifetimes. As of yet, it is too early to tell the full extent of the economic…
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Covid 19 Statement
Sue Round CEO In these very uncertain times, we wanted to write to you to reassure you that we are making every effort to continue to operate on a business as usual basis. We have taken the Government’s advice and the…
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Mind The Gap
I met a lovely fundraiser at an event last week who told me that one of the board of Trustees for her charity is retiring and they are struggling to get a replacement. This got me thinking…. Who would take on the role of…
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Can charities benefit from investment in UK real estate in 2020? James Lloyd
The Conservative Party’s election success in December 2019 removed one of the key risk factors holding back the UK economy and investor confidence. Boris Johnson’s new government can now move forward with the Brexit…
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Writing a responsible investment policy statement for charities
Writing a responsible investment policy can be daunting and offering advice in this area is not always straightforward, given the subjective nature of the task. From our experience of working with numerous charities, we…
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How can charities approach responsible investing for the first time?
Whilst it is not yet a regulatory requirement for charities to invest responsibly and sustainably, it is becoming a topic of increased interest for charity investors, their supporters and their beneficiaries. However…
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6 key considerations for Charity Trustees when reviewing Charity Investments
Whether you are new to being a Charity Trustee, an experienced Trustee or simply someone interested in becoming one in future getting to grips with some of the responsibilities you have can be difficult such as reviewing…
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Engaging on Modern Slavery in the UK’s Construction Sector
Modern Slavery – a term which covers forced labour, child labour and child slavery, forced/early marriage, debt bondage/bonded labour, and human trafficking – is thought to affect over 40 million people worldwide…
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ESG Investing for Endowments and Foundations
David Osfield, Fund manager at EdenTree with responsibility for managing investments globally for charities, was recently interviewed by a climate change consultant on the topic of embedding environmental, social and…
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Good Governance in Minutes
Trustees must act in the best interest of the charity. One of the most effective ways to demonstrate this is through minute taking. The " Charities and Meetings " guidance published by the Charity Commission contains a…
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HOW TO PROTECT YOUR TRUSTEES AND YOUR ORGANISATION
Reputable and committed Trustees are incredibly important to charities and community groups. However, it is important to recognise that Trustees of even very small charities bear considerable responsibility for both…
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The Charity Chair – Some Practical Considerations
The role of a charity’s Chair of Trustees is often crucial in setting the tone, standard and good practice within the charity. But there are many myths about what powers Chairs have; often assuming that Chairs have…
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The Importance of Reserves to the Charity Sector
Recent research indicates that the majority of charities only have reserves policies based on 3 – 6 months of operating costs. The problem with this is that this type of calculation does not take into account the…
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Is cash still king?
It is a topic that is increasingly pressing for charities; is sitting on cash still a ‘safe’ option? As interest rates fail to keep pace with inflation, charities sitting on their cash reserves are actually seeing…
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Property is an important diversifier for charity funds
In the past, most charities' investment portfolios have consisted mainly of equities and bonds, but in today's volatile economic environment it has never been more important for charities to hold a diversified portfolio…
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Divestment and engagement: different shades of green
Climate change is not a new phenomenon, but having been passionately debated for a number of decades there has, more recently, been widespread acceptance that it is happening. Arguably one of the most important steps in…
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Income at any price?
In a world of distorted interest rates and high asset prices, protecting capital and producing strong be mutually compatible. For much of the last half century a sustainable income target has been the most definitive…
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2018 Newton Charity Investment Survey
Over the last few years charities have been on a rollercoaster ride with the investment returns from their portfolios. Meanwhile, more charities appear to be making withdrawals at a higher rate than they believe to be…
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Investing Your Charity's Money For The First Time
Waverton has been managing charity assets since its inception and we have learned a lot along the way about the barriers that trustees have to deal with before they are comfortable investing their money. Many charities…