Ashtree host Breakfast Seminar

Newry based Ashtree Financial Services has warned Northern Ireland investors about the need to make tax planning a key part of their investment strategies.

The importance of Business Property Relief, and how it can be used to secure a wide range of investment and tax planning opportunities for all clients, not just those in business, was the message delivered at a breakfast seminar hosted by Ashtree Financial Services on Thursday morning.

Guest speaker Tony Sime, Business Development Manager for Downing LLP, outlined to guests the availability of Business Property Relief (BPR) tax planning schemes that are based on current legislation and have a long-term track record of success.

Mr Sime said: “We are delighted to be working with Ashtree Financial Services, highlighting these tax planning opportunities.  Using these products which benefit from primary legislation, can make a significant difference to the financial affairs of particular clients.”

Today’s seminar is part of a series of events Ashtree is planning which will highlight key financial planning issues and advice on how to address them.

Kevin Curran, Client Services Director of Ashtree Financial Services, commented “Clients are increasingly demanding solutions to help reduce Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax liabilities, and want to limit their exposure to Inheritance Tax.  However, they are concerned by the complex issues involved in choosing the right strategy, and often deterred by negative headlines around tax avoidance schemes that have been investigated by HMRC.

“That is why we have decided to highlight the availability of tax planning schemes that are based on current legislation, are not controversial in the eyes of HMRC and have a long-term track record of success. We also wanted to bring together Downing LLP, a leading provider of tax planning investments with over £650 million under management, and the accountancy and tax advice professionals that clients depend on. 

“We work closely with accountants to encourage our clients to think more seriously about financial planning and hope that events such as the breakfast seminar can help reinforce the message.”

Headquartered in Newry with branches in Downpatrick, Ballymena, Coleraine and Enniskillen, Ashtree Financial Services is the financial planning division of the Autoline Insurance Group. Established eight years ago, Ashtree integrates financial planning with tax planning to provide a complete wealth management service.