Joanne Hobson

When is the right time to invest?

There’s always a degree of uncertainty when it comes to investing, so it’s natural for some people to feel nervous about it.

When the news is reporting stock market volatility, it’s understandable that some people might feel more cautious about investing. But including investments in your long-term financial plan is a smart way to give your money the best chance to grow.

Keeping money in cash might feel like a safe option, and having some money easily available is a sensible decision. But too much cash could end up costing you more because of inflation’s ability to eat away at the value of your savings. For example, when £10,000 is invested it can grow by 78% over 30 years, but if it was kept in a current account its value could actually reduce by 59%*.

There are lots of options when it comes to investing, and I’m here to guide you through them. I can help you decide things like which risk level is right for you, what types of investments to use to maximise your tax efficiency, and how to create an investment plan tailored to your circumstances and goals. I can also show you how different investment approaches could impact your finances over the long term.

If you’re thinking about how investing today can help create the life you want in the future, let’s talk about how I can support and guide you through the process.

The value of investments and the income they produce can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.

Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change

*Based on an annual average investment return of 5% and inflation at 3%.

Since graduating from university in 2003, I’ve built a fulfilling career in financial services. I began as a mortgage and protection adviser, then progressed to becoming a Financial Planning Consultant in 2009. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients - including families, business owners, company directors, and individuals approaching or enjoying retirement.

I believe financial planning should feel empowering, not overwhelming. That’s why my approach is friendly, honest, and down-to-earth. I explain everything clearly, avoiding jargon, and work closely with you to develop a straightforward, personalised plan that evolves with your life. I support clients in a variety of life stages and financial scenarios, such as:

• Families building wealth for the future
• Newly promoted professionals wanting to grow their finances wisely
• Business owners and directors looking for efficient profit extraction
• Individuals managing inheritances or planning for care fees
• Employers dealing with auto-enrolment and workplace pension duties

Every client is different, so I tailor my advice to reflect your values, circumstances, and goals. Whether you're focused on securing your family’s future, planning a business exit, or preparing for later-life care, I use tools like cashflow forecasting to help you make clear, confident decisions. More than just technical expertise, I aim to offer long-term support and peace of mind - helping you stay on track, whatever life brings.

I offer expert advice across the full spectrum of financial planning. My areas of focus include:

• Pensions and investments
• Tax-efficient strategies
• Business financial planning including auto-enrolment guidance
• Mortgages and protection