Category Archives: Planning

Podcast105: A Huge Tax Saving On Investments – A Tale Of 2 Cities

Podcast105: A Huge Tax Saving On Investments – A Tale Of 2 Cities

Charles Dickens' novel about Dr. Manette, his 18 year incarceration in Paris and subsequent relocation to London to spend time with his daughter Lucie, and all the messing that apparently ensued is meant to be quite a read. I haven't managed it myself but am reliably informed that I should. Some day I will, as...

Investing, Podcast, Taxation

September 17, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast104: An American Perspective….With Eric Brotman

Podcast104: An American Perspective….With Eric Brotman

Welcome to Ireland's only dedicated and straight-talking Personal Finance & Financial Planning Blog. We are on a mission to make a positive difference and to help people take control of their finances in a meaningful way. If you have a suggestion, question or feedback for us please do drop me a mail here, love...

Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

September 10, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast103: Real Returns: Invest in Low Cost Funds Or A Pension

Podcast103: Real Returns: Invest in Low Cost Funds Or A Pension

This week we are hoping to answer several questions we have had from listeners in the past 6 weeks or so. It has been put to me that it would be valuable to share our thoughts and to explore whether it would be more beneficial to invest in a low-cost investment plan, achieve a decent...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement, Taxation

September 3, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog84: Real Returns: Low-Cost Savings, Or A Pension??

Blog84: Real Returns: Low-Cost Savings, Or A Pension??

This week we are hoping to answer several questions we have had from listeners in the past 6 weeks or so. It has been put to me that it would be valuable to share our thoughts and to explore whether it would be more beneficial to invest in a low-cost investment plan, achieve a decent...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement, Taxation

September 3, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast102: The 4% Rule In Ireland….

Podcast102: The 4% Rule In Ireland….

This week we are taking a closer look at the fabled '4% Rule' relating to drawing-down on investment or retirement pots. This particular 'rule' gets plenty of airtime in the US, UK and many other countries but from my own experience very few investors, pension holders here in Ireland seem to have heard of (and...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

August 27, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog 83: The 4% Rule

Blog 83: The 4% Rule

This week we are taking a closer look at the fabled '4% Rule' relating to drawing-down on investment or retirement pots. This particular 'rule' gets plenty of airtime in the US, UK and many other countries but from my own experience very few people here in Ireland seem to have heard of (even many advisors!)....

Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement

August 27, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast101: Using Trusts In Your Estate/Financial Planning

Podcast101: Using Trusts In Your Estate/Financial Planning

We have recently been asked to share ideas on how an individual (or couple) can ensure their investments/estate/assets are properly distributed and managed once they die. It is an area that is of real value and interest to both the people who may be 'receiving' and indeed obviously to the people that are 'giving' it! While...

Planning, Podcast, Protection, Retirement, Taxation

August 20, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast99: When Simplicity Rewards Investors

Podcast99: When Simplicity Rewards Investors

In a meeting last week I was asked why my philosophy toward successful long term investing was so simplistic and boring. I was delighted! For context the people I was working with had understood me to have been in the financial planning profession for 13 years (correct) and that I was a 'finance expert' (marginally...

Behavioural, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

August 6, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast98: Can A Couple Retire In Ireland With €1million?

Podcast98: Can A Couple Retire In Ireland With €1million?

As a young boy growing up many years ago a million euros (or pounds as it was!) always sounded like an inexorably large amount of money. If you had ?1m you were officially a millionaire and were in our eyes elevated to a stratospheric status.......The same can't be said anymore though! While it no doubt...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

July 30, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog79: Pension Planning For Company Directors…..Its Party Time!

Blog79: Pension Planning For Company Directors…..Its Party Time!

Welcome back to Ireland's award winning Finance Blog & Podcast. Delighted you have joined us! Our mission is to help people avoid mistakes and help themselves to live successful financial lives. Our big aim is to ultimately change how financial advice is done here in Ireland, to put the focus back on what you want...

Investing, Planning, Retirement, Taxation

July 16, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast96: Planning for company directors in Ireland….Party-Time!

Podcast96: Planning for company directors in Ireland….Party-Time!

Welcome back to Ireland's award winning Finance Blog & Podcast. Delighted you have joined us! Our mission is to help people avoid mistakes and help themselves to live successful financial lives. Our big aim is to ultimately change how financial advice is done here in Ireland, to put the focus back on what you want...

Planning, Podcast, Retirement

July 16, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog78: The 3 Characteristics Which Suggest You Should Not Invest In Equities….

Blog78: The 3 Characteristics Which Suggest You Should Not Invest In Equities….

There was a large scale research study done by Gallup Consulting Group (a hugely credible global research company) this year which shows that the majority of people under 35 years of age do not own any form of shares/equities through investments, pensions or savings. This is in comparison to 2007 when the majority of people...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

July 9, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast93: The Bid That Could Change Your Life….!

Podcast93: The Bid That Could Change Your Life….!

Nobody likes to be suffering from something that they aren't aware of, particularly if it is a nasty and invasive something that has a long term impact on their well-being, & that could do so in a pretty significant way.......so this week we are going to explore and try to diagnose if anyone here is...

Investing, Planning, Podcast, Protection

June 25, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog76: A Bid That Could Change Your Life…..!

Blog76: A Bid That Could Change Your Life…..!

Nobody likes to be suffering from something that they aren't aware of, particularly if it is a nasty and invasive something that has a long term impact on their well-being, & that could do so in a pretty significant way.......so this week we are going to explore and try to diagnose if anyone here is...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

June 25, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast92: Develping A Career in Financial Services….with Hugh Murray

Podcast92: Develping A Career in Financial Services….with Hugh Murray

Thanks for joining us here on Ireland's only dedicated Financial Planning Podcast & Blog. We are on a mission to help you get what you want, and to help you make decisions which will help you lead a successful financial life, and to avoid costly mistakes. This week we are joined by Hugh Murray, founder of...

Behavioural, Later Life, Planning, Podcast

June 18, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog74: Beginning With The End In Mind……

Blog74: Beginning With The End In Mind……

If we were to take a close and honest look at it very many of us, I'm guessing, would admit that we have not given much if any consideration to where our journey in life might take us, or indeed where we WANT it to take us. For some reason we don't accept the fact...

Behavioural, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement

May 28, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast89: Financial Planning With The End In Mind

Podcast89: Financial Planning With The End In Mind

If we were to take a close and honest look at it very many of us, I'm guessing, would admit that we have not given much if any consideration to where our journey in life might take us, or indeed where we WANT it to take us. For some reason we don't accept the fact...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

May 28, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog71: Just Start…..Please!

Blog71: Just Start…..Please!

This week we are trying to share a simple message, an appeal to you, one which we hope will help move things forward for you in a positive direction. When we procrastinate about or delay committing to positive action we will always manage to rationalise it in our own heads, always! We are masters at...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

May 20, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast87: Just Start……

Podcast87: Just Start……

This week we are trying to share a simple message, an appeal to you, one which we hope will help move things forward for you in a positive direction. When we procrastinate about or delay committing to positive action we will always manage to rationalise it in our own heads, always! We are masters at...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Investing, Planning, Podcast, Protection, Retirement

May 14, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast86: Small Cap Investing…When Small Is Big

Podcast86: Small Cap Investing…When Small Is Big

Welcome back to Informed Decisions, Ireland's only dedicated Financial Planning Blog & Podcast. Hope you are winning! When it comes to investing in Ireland there are many folks that have no interest in what they are investing in, provided it makes them a decent return and it doesn't disappear over-night! Others like to take a closer...

Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

May 7, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast85: The 4 Big Pitfalls When Buying A Home

Podcast85: The 4 Big Pitfalls When Buying A Home

We don't ever go out of our way to be pessimistic on this blog, in fact we tend to be quite the opposite, having a firm belief that optimism is the only valid way when it comes to investing. However, when it comes to borrowing, which as we all know is essentially the...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Planning, Podcast

April 30, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Buying Your First Home……The Pitfalls

Buying Your First Home……The Pitfalls

We don't ever go out of our way to be pessimistic on this blog, in fact we tend to be quite the opposite, having a firm belief that optimism is the only valid way when it comes to investing. However, when it comes to borrowing, which as we all know is essentially the reverse...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Planning

April 30, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog68- A Last Resort……Section 72 Plans

Blog68- A Last Resort……Section 72 Plans

In Blog 61 we mentioned Section 72 plans and said the following....These are creations of the Financial Services industry endorsed by the Revenue and are sold to people as a means to reduce or indeed eliminate a potential Inheritance or Gift Tax Bill down the road. They cost money and I am told are not...

Behavioural, Later Life, Planning, Protection, Retirement, Taxation

April 9, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast 82: A Last Resort……Section 72

Podcast 82: A Last Resort……Section 72

In Blog 61 we mentioned Section 72 plans and said the following....These are creations of the Financial Services industry endorsed by the Revenue and are sold to people as a means to reduce or indeed eliminate a potential Inheritance or Gift Tax Bill down the road. They cost money and I am told are not...

Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Protection, Taxation

April 9, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog67- Optimism Is The Way When Investing……..(Sunday Times Article)

Blog67- Optimism Is The Way When Investing……..(Sunday Times Article)

Hi, and welcome back to the latest edition of Informed Decisions Financial Planning Blog & Podcast! This week we are sharing with you an article we wrote for The Sunday Times, which ironcially appeared in the paper on April Fool's Day 2018! Here is the article below. We hope it conveys what is our philosophy in...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

April 2, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast80: Humans Under Management…..with Andy Hart

Podcast80: Humans Under Management…..with Andy Hart

Andy Hart is one of the UK's highest profile Financial Planners. He hosts his own Podcast, runs a successful Financial Planning firm, and is the organiser of the what is rapidly becoming UK's premier Financial Advisor & Planner Conference (Humans Under Management). And to top it all off he has invited me to share some...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

March 26, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast76: Evidence Based Investing…..with Robin Powell

Podcast76: Evidence Based Investing…..with Robin Powell

This week we get to chat with a guy who is making quite a name for himself. He is advocating for greater investor education, in particular with regards to the long-running debate on the value of Active Fund Management versus Passive or Index investing. This is the latest episode in Ireland's only dedicated Financial Planning &...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

February 26, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast75: Business Success Series #1 – Paddy O’Connell

Podcast75: Business Success Series #1 – Paddy O’Connell

Welcome to Informed Decisions' very first 'Business Success Series'. Our main focus over the past 18 months has been Financial Planning and all aspects of Personal Finance. By all means have a look at our back-catalogue here. We have a huge interest here too in the success of others, and in business successes. For that...

Planning, Podcast

February 19, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog63- How To Inherit A House & Pay No Tax…….!

Blog63- How To Inherit A House & Pay No Tax…….!

A couple of weeks ago we saw how our fictitious characters Johnny & Sheena were landed with an inheritance bill of over €250,000 when they inherited their parents assets on death. This time round we are going to explore one of the most effective avenues available to legally avoid such huge tax bills, where circumstances...

Later Life, Planning, Taxation

February 12, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog62- What Should I Do With A Salary Raise?!

Blog62- What Should I Do With A Salary Raise?!

According to Central Statistics Office the average salary in Ireland (2016) of a full-time employee was a 'grocery-shop' more than €45,000. Knowing that figure might make you feel that you're doing well or it might make you feel like making progress on the income you are bringing in. In reality this is the main thing...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Investing, Planning

February 5, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast73: What Should I Do With A Raise?

Podcast73: What Should I Do With A Raise?

According to Central Statistics Office the average salary in Ireland (2016) of a full-time employee was a 'grocery-shop' more than €45,000. Knowing that figure might make you feel that you're doing well or it might make you feel like making progress on the income you are bringing in. In reality this is the main thing...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast, Protection

February 5, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog61- They Died With Too Much Money………..So They Did

Blog61- They Died With Too Much Money………..So They Did

Welcome back to another edition of the Informed Decisions Blog, Ireland's #1 Financial Planning Blog & Podcast! This week we will take on an obscure topic, a topic which is often left till the bitter end before we give it consideration! When it comes to focusing on your Financial Planning, Financial Independence or 'building wealth'...

Behavioural, Later Life, Planning, Taxation

January 29, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog59 – Should I Be Investing In Commodities………Mooooo!

Blog59 – Should I Be Investing In Commodities………Mooooo!

Oxford dictionary define a commodity as 'A useful or valuable thing'. Another definition they put out there is 'A raw material or primary agricultural product that can be bought and sold, such as copper or coffee'. Whichever way you look at it, be that a useful and valuable thing, or indeed a basic product, Commodities...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

January 15, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast70: Should I Invest in Commodities…..Moooooo!

Podcast70: Should I Invest in Commodities…..Moooooo!

Oxford dictionary define a commodity as 'A useful or valuable thing'. Another definition they put out there is 'A raw material or primary agricultural product that can be bought and sold, such as copper or coffee'. Whichever way you look at it, be that a useful and valuable thing, or indeed a basic product, Commodities...

Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

January 15, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog58: Is Euro-Cost-Averaging A Good Thing!?…..(Chicken & Egg Version!)

Blog58: Is Euro-Cost-Averaging A Good Thing!?…..(Chicken & Egg Version!)

Hey, We've spoken about volatility here before, and we have put it on a bit of a pedestal on account of it's hugely positive influence on the long term saver/investor who embraces it and recognises it as the huge ally it is. Euro Cost Averaging (Or Egg-Cost-Averaging as you'll see in a moment) is an...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Investing, Planning

January 8, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Podcast67: Why Resolutions Don’t Work (& What To Do Instead!)

Podcast67: Why Resolutions Don’t Work (& What To Do Instead!)

We kick of 2018 full of optimism, gratitude and excitement for the year ahead. After what was hopefully a nice Christmas break we all are raring to go, and apparently as many as 50% of us (myself included!) feel that customary urge to set some resolutions for the year ahead. The top resolutions that we make...

Behavioural, Planning, Podcast

January 2, 2018

Patrick Delaney

Blog56- How Much Could I Save By Switching Mortgage? The Big Switcheroo!

Blog56- How Much Could I Save By Switching Mortgage? The Big Switcheroo!

What do most of us have......really really desperately wanted it initially..........but now we really really want to get rid of (a clue, it's not your partner!).................the answer is of course our mortgage! We have covered mortgages a few times on here, including the ever popular 'should I clear my mortgage or save for the future' episode....

Borrowing, Planning, Protection

December 18, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #67: How Much Could I Save By Switching Mortgage? The Big Switcheroo!

Podcast #67: How Much Could I Save By Switching Mortgage? The Big Switcheroo!

What do most of us have......really really desperately wanted it initially..........but now we really really want to get rid of (a clue, it's not your partner!).................the answer is of course our mortgage! We have covered mortgages a few times on here, including the ever popular 'should I clear my mortgage or save for the future' episode....

Borrowing, Planning, Podcast, Protection

December 18, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #66: Financial Well-Being with Jason Butler…

Podcast #66: Financial Well-Being with Jason Butler…

Welcome to another episode of Ireland's #1 Financial Planning Blog & Podcast. This week we have a cracking interview with UK's Jason Butler, where we discover some tips and guidance on achieving financial well-being, getting our lives the way we want them to be. Jason has super insight on this aspect of life, and is now living...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast

December 11, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #65- The War On Commissions……..(Green-Grocer Version!)

Podcast #65- The War On Commissions……..(Green-Grocer Version!)

This week we are aiming to share some slightly different insights, and reveal some major news in the world of Financial Services in Ireland! Last week the Central Bank released a proposal which is due to come into force next year (subject to Dept. of Finance), which is aimed at maximising the protection consumers get...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast

December 4, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #54- The 5 Simple Things…..(I Promise!)

Blog #54- The 5 Simple Things…..(I Promise!)

Welcome to Ireland's #1 Finance Blog & Podcast. Our purpose is to help you make informed decisions with your money, and importantly to avoid some costly mistakes that they rest of us have made! We are aiming to make this THE home of Financial Planning information and insight for normal people here in Ireland! This...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement

November 27, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #64: The 5 Simple Things….(I Promise!)

Podcast #64: The 5 Simple Things….(I Promise!)

Welcome to Ireland's #1 Financial Planning Blog & Podcast. Our purpose is to help you make informed decisions with your money, and importantly to avoid some costly mistakes that they rest of us have made! We are aiming to make this THE home of Financial Planning ideas and insight for normal people in Ireland! This...

Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

November 27, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #62: When Jimmy Met Aggie……Life-Styling

Podcast #62: When Jimmy Met Aggie……Life-Styling

Welcome to Ireland's #1 Finance Blog & Podcast. We are here to help you make informed decisions with your money...and ultimately to bring true Financial Planning to Ireland's normal people! This week we are taking a little peep into the magical world of Jimmy & Aggie.....how they have different views on life and money, and...

Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

November 13, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #53- Should I Have Life-Styling On My Pension Plans!?!

Blog #53- Should I Have Life-Styling On My Pension Plans!?!

Welcome to Ireland's #1 Finance Blog & Podcast. We are here to help you make informed decisions with your money...and ultimately to bring true Financial Planning to Ireland's normal people! This week we are taking a little peep into the magical world of Jimmy & Aggie.....how they have different views on life and money, and...

Investing, Planning, Retirement

November 13, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #60: Have You Made ‘The Empty Promise’??

Podcast #60: Have You Made ‘The Empty Promise’??

This week we will take a look at the empty promise that we hear so many people make to themselves and to their loved-ones! This empty promise is akin to playing Russian Roulette with your loved-ones' financial well-being.....if you are a selfish gambler then perhaps its OK, for the rest of us it simply isn't,...

Planning, Podcast, Protection

October 30, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #52- Have You Made ‘The Empty Promise’…….Havvvve Youuu?!

Blog #52- Have You Made ‘The Empty Promise’…….Havvvve Youuu?!

This week we will take a look at the empty promise that we hear so many people make to themselves and to their loved-ones! This empty promise is akin to playing Russian Roulette with your loved-ones' financial well-being.....if you are a selfish gambler then perhaps its OK, for the rest of us it simply isn't,...

Behavioural, Planning, Protection

October 30, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #59: “Tell Her To Shove Her AVCs….” [ AVCs – The Facts!]

Podcast #59: “Tell Her To Shove Her AVCs….” [ AVCs – The Facts!]

Two lads were standing at the bar of a Friday night in October....their kids put to bed, they gather for their monthly 'Fischers Friday' in their local pub! Lad #1: "Hey, they're telling me I should do this AVC pension in work" Lad #2: "Whats an AVC?? Sure do you not have a pension already in work?" Lad...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

October 23, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #51- Anyone For AVCs??…….”Tell Her To Shove Her ABC’s!”

Blog #51- Anyone For AVCs??…….”Tell Her To Shove Her ABC’s!”

Two lads were standing at the bar of a Friday night in October....their kids put to bed, they gather for their monthly 'Fischers Friday' in their local pub! Lad #1: "Hey, they're telling me I should do this AVC pension in work" Lad #2: "Whats an AVC?? Sure do you not have a pension already in work?" Lad...

Behavioural, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement

October 23, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #58: ‘Owning’ A Baby….The Costs! (Plus Our First ‘Hidden Track’!!!)

Podcast #58: ‘Owning’ A Baby….The Costs! (Plus Our First ‘Hidden Track’!!!)

OK, we were being a bit mischievous in calling it 'owning'.....but if you have one you'll know that the responsibility lies squarely on your shoulders.....so you may as well 'own' the little darling!! We are not just gonna list off the usual baby stuff, as we like to do here we are going to invite...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast, Protection, Taxation

October 16, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #50 – ‘Owning’ A Baby….The Costs! Goo-Goo-Ga-Ga

Blog #50 – ‘Owning’ A Baby….The Costs! Goo-Goo-Ga-Ga

OK, we were being a bit mischievous in titling it as 'owning'.....but if you have one you'll know that the responsibility lies squarely on your shoulders.....so you may as well 'own' the little darling!! We are not just gonna list off the usual baby stuff, as we like to do here we are going to...

Investing, Planning, Protection, Taxation

October 16, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #49- What Is Rebalancing & Does It Help My Investments!?

Blog #49- What Is Rebalancing & Does It Help My Investments!?

Kindly indulge us for one sec.......WE WON!!!! Best Finance Blog 2017 (among solid company). We're chuffed! Thanks to you all for your support & encouragement over the last 16 months or so.....this blog/podcast would not be in existence without you, and that's a fact! So that's that bit done and dusted.....moving on........! This week we take on...

Investing, Planning, Retirement

October 9, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #57: Rebalancing Your Investments…..What is It & Is It Worth Doing??

Podcast #57: Rebalancing Your Investments…..What is It & Is It Worth Doing??

This week we take on a subject which, while not that earth-movingly exciting, has gained in popularity over recent years in the investment industry, and that subject is rebalancing. Rebalancing, in the simplest and most honest terms can be described as taking money out of your 'winners' and putting it into your 'losers'! Please bear with...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

October 9, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #48- Building a Core-Satellite Investment Portfolio

Blog #48- Building a Core-Satellite Investment Portfolio

While it might sound a little like a project to build the next NASA space-rocket this is a fairly simple investment approach that Irish investors have access to, so strap yourself in! Before we begin may I outline that the word 'satellite' is one of those words that I really struggle how to spell.....for some...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement

October 2, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #56: Core Satellite Investment Portfolios……Eh!?

Podcast #56: Core Satellite Investment Portfolios……Eh!?

While it might sound a little like a project to build the next NASA space-rocket this is a fairly simple investment approach that Irish investors have access to, so strap yourself in! Before we begin may I outline that the word 'satellite' is one of those words that I really struggle how to spell.....for some...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

October 2, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #47- The Impact Of Time On Your Investment……Tick Tock!

Blog #47- The Impact Of Time On Your Investment……Tick Tock!

It is the first thing people ask when they hear you work in the space of helping people manage money.....'What should I invest in?'. The only appropriate answer to that question, I believe is along the lines of 'it depends on what your objective is'. This answer usually isn't what they expect, they expect a...

Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Retirement

September 25, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #55: The Impact Of Time On Investments…Tick Tock

Podcast #55: The Impact Of Time On Investments…Tick Tock

It is the first thing people ask when they hear you work in the space of helping people manage money.....'What should I invest in?'. The only appropriate answer to that question, I believe is along the lines of 'it depends on what your objective is'. This answer usually isn't what they expect, they expect a...

Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

September 25, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #54: Wait For Armageddon Or Buy A House Now!?

Podcast #54: Wait For Armageddon Or Buy A House Now!?

There are many many people today in Ireland pining for their own home, looking to get onto the property ladder, sick of paying rent or perhaps living with parents or family. There are usually a one or more of the following barriers to them doing so; cannot get a mortgage large enough, cannot find a...

Borrowing, Planning, Podcast

September 18, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #53: Lifting The Lid On Fees….& How To Avoid The Sharks!

Podcast #53: Lifting The Lid On Fees….& How To Avoid The Sharks!

It's Showtime! If you swim too close to a shark it'll bite ya! If you have decent savings, investments and pensions you could be in danger of getting bitten too! We're here to help you understand if you are in danger of getting bitten, it's up to you as to whether to stay in that water...

Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

September 11, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #45- Shark Warning – Lifting The Lid On Fees!!

Blog #45- Shark Warning – Lifting The Lid On Fees!!

If you swim too close to a shark it'll bite ya! If you have decent savings, investments and pensions you could be in danger of getting bitten too! We're here to help you understand if you are in danger of getting bitten, it's up to you as to whether to stay in that water or...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

September 10, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #52: The Investment Management Interview…with Will Sparks!

Podcast #52: The Investment Management Interview…with Will Sparks!

Thanks for tuning in to this weeks' Episode, our 52nd, and Informed Decisions' 1 year anniversary!! We bring you something pretty special, interviewing one of Ireland's brightest talents in regards Investment Management, Will Sparks. Will tells it like it is, so it was a pleasure to have him on the show, and in addition to that he...

Behavioural, Investing, Podcast, Taxation

September 4, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #44- Making Sure You Get To New York (Managing Investment Risk!)

Blog #44- Making Sure You Get To New York (Managing Investment Risk!)

Hey! In a recent blog we took a look at the big 6 risks which exist when it comes to managing ourselves and our money. We had everything from ostrich risk (sticking our head in the sand!) to longevity risk (living too long!). This time around we are going to focus on practical tools we...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning

August 28, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #51: Making Sure You Get To New York (Managing Investment Risk!)

Podcast #51: Making Sure You Get To New York (Managing Investment Risk!)

Hey! In a recent blog we took a look at the big 6 risks which exist when it comes to managing ourselves and our money. We had everything from ostrich risk (sticking our head in the sand!) to longevity risk (living too long!). This time around we are going to focus on practical tools we...

Investing, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

August 28, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #50: Is This The Best Mortgage Ever….!?

Podcast #50: Is This The Best Mortgage Ever….!?

Hey all, in this 50th episode of the Informed Decisions Financial Planning Podcast we will aim to share insights on the very best mortgage that you can get here in Ireland; whether you are aiming for your first mortgage or have a collection of them we hope to share ideas which will save you a...

Borrowing, Planning, Podcast

August 21, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #49: The Coaching Interview – With Professional Coach Niall English

Podcast #49: The Coaching Interview – With Professional Coach Niall English

We are joined by Professional Coach Niall English, to uncover exactly what coaching is, how it can be of benefit to us in achieving the things we want to achieve. We also take a look at how it might be useful if you find yourself in need of making some changes to your finances. Here at...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Protection, Retirement

August 14, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #42- How ETFs Are Taxed Vs Shares & Retail Products

Blog #42- How ETFs Are Taxed Vs Shares & Retail Products

[Edit Jan 2018 - Please note the below was published prior to PRIIPS Regulation was introduced in EU in Jan 2018 which limited the availability of US Domiciled ETFs for Irish Investors] This week we follow-up on our promise to share with you guys how ETFs are taxed here in Ireland. Like a lot of stuff...

Investing, Planning, Taxation

August 7, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #48: How ETFs Are Taxed Versus Shares & Retail Investments

Podcast #48: How ETFs Are Taxed Versus Shares & Retail Investments

Hey, welcome to the latest Episode......This week we follow-up on our promise to share with you guys how ETFs are taxed here in Ireland. Like a lot of stuff these days there is a lot of info floating around about this topic, and if any of you have gone looking to get definitive answers it...

Investing, Podcast, Taxation

August 7, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #41- The Danger Of Trivial Pensions……

Blog #41- The Danger Of Trivial Pensions……

Central Statistics Office reported recently that 47% of men in Ireland have some form of pension, and 46% of females have one....there's a surprise, the men leading the way!! Our age also seems to have a large impact as to whether we bother or indeed believe we can afford to contribute to a pension; 36% of...

Planning, Retirement

July 31, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #40- Why Most Financial Plans Are Absolute Faff…….

We are not writing or dictionary aficionados here but the noun Faff has been defined by the Oxford Dictionary as 'A great deal of ineffectual activity'.......most financial plans are absolute faff! So there, I said it! I said it, and the fact of the matter is that it is pretty true. Any plan worth it's salt...

Behavioural, Planning

July 26, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #46: Why Most Financial Plans Are Absolute Faff!

Podcast #46: Why Most Financial Plans Are Absolute Faff!

The noun Faff has been defined by the Oxford Dictionary as 'A great deal of ineffectual activity'.......most financial plans are absolute faff! So there, I said it! I said it, and the fact of the matter is that it is pretty true. Any plan worth it's salt with regards to pretty much anything will be mostly...

Behavioural, Planning, Podcast

July 24, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #39- Should I Be Investing in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)??

Blog #39- Should I Be Investing in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)??

Hey, and welcome to another episode of Informed Decisions! This time around we are taking a look under the bonnet of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in Ireland and determining how they may or may not be something you want to get behind the wheel of as part of your 'investment portfolio'. ETFs are well documented at this...

Investing, Retirement, Taxation

July 17, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #44: Noah’s ARF…..A Biblical Retirement Fund!

Podcast #44: Noah’s ARF…..A Biblical Retirement Fund!

Hopefully this is the episode that will give you some insights on the mystery that is ARFs, or do I mean ARKs!?.......... Apparently Noah's Ark was made of 'cypress wood' and was in the region of 500 feet long. It was said to have been quite a boat, large enough to hold 125,000 sheep if those...

Planning, Podcast, Retirement

July 10, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #38- Noah’s ARF…..The Biblical Retirement Fund

Blog #38- Noah’s ARF…..The Biblical Retirement Fund

Welcome to the episode which will hopefully finally banish any confusion about ARFs, or do I mean ARKs!?...... Apparently Noah's Ark was made of 'cypress wood' and was in the region of 500 feet long. It was said to have been quite a boat, large enough to hold 125,000 sheep if those were his orders! Anyone...

Borrowing, Investing, Planning, Taxation

July 10, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #43: Breaking The Banks…The Brett King Interview

Podcast #43: Breaking The Banks…The Brett King Interview

Needless to say it is a bit of a coup to have a Fintech Legend that has 9 million monthly listeners to his hit radio show 'Breaking Banks' in New York come on our show! An Australian based in New York, Brett King has taken a circuitous route to being a Global thought-leader in the FinTech...

Behavioural, Planning, Podcast

July 2, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #41: Interview with Stephen Browne – CashFlow Forecasting Tools

Podcast #41: Interview with Stephen Browne – CashFlow Forecasting Tools

Welcome to Episode #41 of the Informed Decisions Financial Planning Podcast, still the only dedicated Podcast of it's type here in Ireland! In this episode Paddy speaks with Stephen Browne, who is owner and distributor of Voyant here in Ireland. There are several providers of this type of software for Financial Advisors and Planners, such as...

Behavioural, Borrowing, Investing, Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Protection, Retirement, Taxation

June 19, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #36- What is The Difference Between Volatility And Risk in Investing??

Blog #36- What is The Difference Between Volatility And Risk in Investing??

Last week we explored what will happen when the next crash comes......and importantly how we will react. It is the volatility of things which causes us to react, not the risk! Volatility is not risk, risk is not volatility. I'm not trying to be profound (it's not one of my strengths!). In today's world the...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning

June 12, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #40: What is The Difference Between Volatility And Risk in Investing??

Podcast #40: What is The Difference Between Volatility And Risk in Investing??

Last week we explored what will happen when the next crash comes......and importantly how we will react. It is the volatility of things which causes us to react, not the risk! Volatility is not risk, risk is not volatility. I'm not trying to be profound (it's not one of my strengths!). In today's world the...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast

June 12, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #39: The Crash is Coming……..What Will You Do!?

Podcast #39: The Crash is Coming……..What Will You Do!?

Regular readers & listeners will by now know that Informed Decisions isn't in the space of trying to predict the markets, we leave that to the fortune-tellers of this world! We don't see any benefit in dissecting the daily news-feed and trying to interpret what that means for our investments, pensions, property prices etc. Nobody can...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast

June 6, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #35- The Crash is Coming……Run For Your Lives!

Blog #35- The Crash is Coming……Run For Your Lives!

Regular readers & listeners will by now know that Informed Decisions isn't in the space of trying to predict the markets, we leave that to the fortune-tellers of this world! We don't see any benefit in dissecting the daily news-feed and trying to interpret what that means for our investments, pensions, property prices etc. Nobody can...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning

June 6, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #34- The Problem With Bloody Life Cover!

Blog #34- The Problem With Bloody Life Cover!

We were entirely humbled to have been contacted by the Irish Times a few weeks ago and asked for our opinion on life cover for an article by journalist Eithne Dunne, published in the Sunday Times on 21st May. We wholeheartedly gave our 'tuppence-worth' on some of the things we believe are important to consider...

Planning, Protection

May 29, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #38: The Problem With Bloody Life Cover!

Podcast #38: The Problem With Bloody Life Cover!

We were humbled to have been contacted by the Irish Times a few weeks ago and asked for our opinion on life cover for an article by journalist Eithne Dunne, published in the Sunday Times on 21st May. We wholeheartedly gave our 'tuppence-worth' on some of the things we believe are important to consider when...

Planning, Podcast, Protection

May 29, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #36: Is It Profitable Being a Landlord?

Podcast #36: Is It Profitable Being a Landlord?

Apparently 66% of the 70,000 'landlords' in Ireland own 1 investment property. Surely you don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth, you want to be one of these? "Sure property prices are climbing, you'd be mad not to own at least one investment property". You buy the place and rent it out so...

Borrowing, Investing, Planning, Podcast

May 15, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #33- Is It Profitable Being A Landlord??……..The Maths!

Blog #33- Is It Profitable Being A Landlord??……..The Maths!

Apparently 66% of the 70,000 'landlords' in Ireland own 1 investment property. Surely you don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth, you want to be one of these? "Sure property prices are climbing, you'd be mad not to own at least one investment property". You buy the place and rent it out so...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Retirement

May 15, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #31- Help! My Defined Benefit Pension Scheme Is Closing….

Blog #31- Help! My Defined Benefit Pension Scheme Is Closing….

Most 'normal people' out there (with the exception of financial nerds & indeed yours truly until I started working in this area 12 years ago!) have no more interest in Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution schemes than the man on the moon! It's sort of like saying to your mate, 'you know, the price of...

Investing, Planning, Retirement

May 1, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #32: Minimise Tax For Married Couples & Civil Partners in Ireland…..What’s Love Got To Do With It!?

Podcast #32: Minimise Tax For Married Couples & Civil Partners in Ireland…..What’s Love Got To Do With It!?

Planning, Podcast, Taxation

April 21, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #31: All About Income Tax & What We Can Do About It

Podcast #31: All About Income Tax & What We Can Do About It

Welcome to Episode 31 of The Informed Decisions Financial Planning Podcast. I must admit that this Podcast Episode took all of my human efforts, Tax is not a subject I especially enjoy but you are worth it! In this episode we explore how Income Tax works, what other tax is generally taken at source, and how...

Planning, Podcast, Taxation

April 10, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog # 28- All About Income Tax & What We Can Do To Manage It!

Blog # 28- All About Income Tax & What We Can Do To Manage It!

Hey, I'll be brutally honest, my head spins when I need to focus on the tax system, it is a pure unadulterated bore for me, however it is a vital part of managing one's finances and financial planning, that's why I am putting myself through this pain for you! I'll also add that in researching this...

Planning, Taxation

April 10, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #30: Why You Don’t Need Financial Advice…..You Need This!

Podcast #30: Why You Don’t Need Financial Advice…..You Need This!

Welcome to Episode 30 of The Informed Decisions Financial Planning Podcast. In this episode I am going to open the can on Financial Advice full stop! I am going to outline why you don't need any initially, and how you can help yourself. For the past 2 weeks...

Planning, Podcast

April 3, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #27- You Don’t Actually Need Financial Advice, You Just Need To Do This….

Blog #27- You Don’t Actually Need Financial Advice, You Just Need To Do This….

In this blog I am going to open the can on Financial Advice full stop! I am going to outline why you don't need any initially, and how you can help yourself. Welcome to Ireland's only dedicated resource on Financial Planning for millennials. As always I would encourage you, if you are new here, to have...

Behavioural, Planning

April 3, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #27: Saving For My Kids Education in Ireland…Part 2 (Not Just For Parents!)

Podcast #27: Saving For My Kids Education in Ireland…Part 2 (Not Just For Parents!)

In this episode Paddy follows up on last week's show and shares the main ways of saving for education. Importantly it will highlight the main pros and cons of each and give you a sense of realistic growth expectations from each. If you would like to see the blog version of this episode you can...

Investing, Planning, Podcast

March 13, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #26: Saving For My Children’s Education? Part 1 of 2 (Not Just For Parents!)

Podcast #26: Saving For My Children’s Education? Part 1 of 2 (Not Just For Parents!)

In this episode Paddy shares the main costs of education so you can begin planning, but importantly will open your eyes as to 'how' to achieve the fund necessary to cover such costs! In Part 1 we share illustrations to show you what is involved in getting to your goal. Part 2 (next week) will...

Behavioural, Investing, Planning, Podcast

March 6, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #24- Saving For My Children’s Education? Part 1 of 2 (Not Just For Parents!)

Blog #24- Saving For My Children’s Education? Part 1 of 2 (Not Just For Parents!)

Hey, Welcome to this, the BIG ONE! Many of us are in the space of considering how best we fund for the education of our kids. Every few months we will see an article in a paper or an advert on TV or online which reminds us of the need to save for this 'big expense'....

Behavioural, Investing, Planning

March 6, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #25- Saving For My Kid’s Education. Part 2 of 2!

Blog #25- Saving For My Kid’s Education. Part 2 of 2!

Welcome to Part 2 of the 'Kids Education' Special. If you haven't read Part 1 you can find it here. In this weeks' episode we will focus on the most popular plans, policies and products by which people save for their kid's education, and share what level of return each would be expected to...

Investing, Planning

March 3, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #22- Have Your Say & I’ll Donate €200 To Irish Cancer Society…..(The Informed Decisions Annual Survey)

Blog #22- Have Your Say & I’ll Donate €200 To Irish Cancer Society…..(The Informed Decisions Annual Survey)

Hi All, This week we are sharing something a little 'off topic'! I have been looking for an opportunity to donate this year, so for every completed Informed Decisions Survey in the next 6 days I will donate €1 to Irish Cancer Society. Given that I am doing all 'this' at no monetary gain I...

Behavioural, Planning

February 20, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #21- I’m In My mid-30’s, You Say I Need A Will??

Blog #21- I’m In My mid-30’s, You Say I Need A Will??

Hi, If you are a new visitor to Informed Decisions, have a quick look over here to find out what we are all about. If not, welcome back! As always, you can check out our Podcast, Ireland's only dedicated Personal Finance & Financial Planning Podcast. If you wish to listen to this instead of read,...

Later Life, Planning, Protection

February 11, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #20- How Much Does My Car Actually Cost Me?

Blog #20- How Much Does My Car Actually Cost Me?

Hi, and thanks for popping in to read this weeks' Blog, which promises to be an interesting one for anyone who owns a car (so that represents the vast majority of us!). If you are new here please do check out this page, which will tell you a little about why this project exists...

Behavioural, Planning

February 1, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #18-What is Specified Illness Cover & Should I Bother With It?

Blog #18-What is Specified Illness Cover & Should I Bother With It?

Hi, Welcome to Informed Decisions Blog #18, nearly at the 20 milestone now! Thanks for continuing to read and learn about critical aspect of Personal Finance & Financial Planning. If you are new here, welcome! This is a great place to begin the journey if you are a new visitor. Any (decent) builder would tell you...

Planning, Protection

January 14, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #17 – Clear My Mortgage or Invest For My Future

Blog #17 – Clear My Mortgage or Invest For My Future

Hi All, Thanks for visiting the Informed Decisions Blog. The last few Blogs have been focused on informing you on how you can access money from your Pensions, both Personal Pensions and Employer Company Pension Schemes, when that time comes. If you are a new visitor you can check these out here and here! For many of...

Borrowing, Investing, Planning, Retirement

January 12, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Blog #16: How Can I Take My Pension?…..Cakified, Part 2!

Blog #16: How Can I Take My Pension?…..Cakified, Part 2!

Happy New Year! It's Officially 2017, and I genuinely wish you every success in whatever you are aiming for in the coming year. How can I take my Pension? The first part of the answer to this question was launched last week (click here), and this week we tackle the second part to this, getting...

Investing, Planning, Retirement

January 4, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #17- How Can I Access My Pension Money, Part 2….Cakified!

Podcast #17- How Can I Access My Pension Money, Part 2….Cakified!

Happy New Year! It's Officially 2017, and I genuinely wish you every success in whatever you are aiming for in the coming year. How can I take my Pension? The first part of the answer to this question was launched last week (click here), and this week we tackle the second part to this, getting...

Later Life, Planning, Podcast, Retirement

January 3, 2017

Patrick Delaney

Podcast #13: The 7 Powerful Tax Reliefs & Allowances You Should Be Claiming!

Podcast #13: The 7 Powerful Tax Reliefs & Allowances You Should Be Claiming!

Hi All, Thanks for tuning in again, this time to Episode 14. Paddy Delaney (QFA, RPA, APA, BBS) outlines the top 7 reliefs, allowances and benefits to claim your full tax benefit, and get the money you are due into your bank account! Below are some links to further useful information.......enjoy!

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Planning, Podcast

December 5, 2016

Patrick Delaney

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