The emergence of the omicron variant has, unsurprisingly, unsettled markets. A reminder, if any were needed, that the global pandemic is far from over.

As we entered Q4, markets were feeling a little less certain than earlier in the year. The momentum of the vaccine-led pick-up has played out, as anticipated, and is now balanced by the uneven nature of the global recovery.

Some good news at last for income-strapped investors as UK dividends recovered in the second quarter of this year. Excluding special dividends, which skew the picture, the quarter saw an increase of nearly 44% in distributions from the same period last year.

The first half of the year has ended on a largely positive note as the UK continues its tentative steps towards a return to normality. Momentum has slowed from the initial surge as the emergence of vaccinations last November offered a way past the pandemic, but that was to be expected.

Here you will find a copy of our useful 2021/22 tax guide. This guide details rates applicable to those resident in England. Some rates for Scottish residents are different and further guidance and advice should be sought.

Those with long memories, or who have studied the 70s and early 80s, will understand how the spectre of inflation can strike fear into rational people. However, it is worth noting that rampant inflation has not been a serious problem in the UK for over 30 years now.