News & Insights

In the Spring 2026 issue of Family Office Magazine, Partner and Philanthropy Expert, Clare Stirzaker explores why philanthropy should be treated as a core part of succession and financial planning rather than an afterthought. The article highlights the importance of values‑led conversations, building trust with charitable organisations and balancing the growing demand for impact with the practical realities charities face.

Partner and Head of Residential Property, Saskia Arthur writes in The Times Home Help on what homeowners selling property worth £2 million or more need to know about the upcoming mansion tax surcharge, and why valuations and timing still matter well ahead of 2028.

The recent announcement of the National Housing Bank/Richborough facility has attracted considerable attention. Partners, Neil Biswas and Aleem Khan examine how the funding works, how it addresses planning risk, and whether the model could be replicated for other land promoters.

As global competition for AI expertise intensifies, the UK is refining its immigration framework to stay ahead. In The AI Journal, Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob examines how recent policy direction and visa reforms are strengthening the UK’s appeal to international AI talent, founders and fast‑growing tech businesses.

When does a smart tax move start to strain the way a business is run? In the Financial Times, Senior Associate, James Woods‑Davison looks at the practical realities behind using the expanded £2.5m BPR allowance. While reorganising shareholdings might ease future inheritance tax exposure, it can also reshape internal dynamics – from decision‑making to minority shareholder expectations – if governance and control aren’t firmly anchored.

The first wave of reforms is now live. While the immediate impact may feel limited to some employers, responsibility and exposure have shifted in several critical areas. The direction of travel is clear – and further changes are coming throughout 2026 and 2027. Senior Associate, Joanne Leach has set out the key updates taking effect from 6 April 2026 and shared her insights on what employers should be doing now to stay ahead of emerging risk.

With carried interest soon to fall fully under the trading income regime, private equity leaders face a very different strategic planning environment. In FT Adviser, Partners, Emily Brand, Rahul Thakrar and Dom Rothbarth outline how the revised rules interact with continuation vehicles, matrimonial planning, tax structuring and forward looking carry planning.

How could the government’s new earned settlement model reshape the path to indefinite leave to remain? In People Management, Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob explains how proposals to extend ILR timelines and introduce tougher income, language and character rules could significantly affect skilled workers. First consulted on last November (with the consultation closing on 12 February 2026), these proposals are not yet final, and Zoe highlights why HR teams should start preparing now ahead of potential changes from autumn 2026.

In IFA Magazine, Partner and Head of Family, Emily Brand reflects on the shifting role of women within the HNW landscape. She outlines how women are increasingly shaping decisions around wealth transfer and protection, and considers the opportunities this creates for advisers responding to the evolving priorities of female clients.

The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces significant updates to employment rules, prompting family businesses to review how they manage people and processes. With new requirements around unfair dismissal and tribunal claims, the shift towards more structured and documented practices offers an opportunity to strengthen governance and support long‑term resilience. Partner, Clare Stirzaker and Senior Associate, Joanne Leach outline the key changes and practical steps for family‑owned firms to prepare.

What will the Government’s draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill mean for residential property ownership? Partner, Simon Kerrigan and Senior Associate, Kate Symons unpack the proposals and assess how these reforms could reshape costs, rights and responsibilities for homeowners, while also influencing developers, landlords and existing leaseholders.

Real Estate Partner, Sophie Henwood explores how planning reform is creating a new route for discharging environmental obligations and whether this is likely to serve as a time‑saver or instead represent a further charge on development.

Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob provides clear guidance for dual British citizens on the stricter UK entry requirements coming into force on 25 February 2026. She highlights what documents will be needed, how to avoid travel disruption and what to do if urgent travel is required.

In PrimeResi, Residential Property Partner, Saskia Arthur outlines how creative workarounds, alternative information sources and increasing reliance on indemnity insurance are keeping transactions moving despite significant delays to local‑authority searches. Her insights highlight the practical solutions helping buyers, sellers and lenders navigate ongoing disruption in the planning system.

Could restructuring your options for shareholdings help you unlock the new £2.5m BPR allowance, or create new risks? In Business & Accountancy Daily, Private Wealth Senior Associate, James Woods‑Davison explains that while the increased allowance offers inheritance tax opportunities, having multiple minority shareholdings can expose businesses to governance pressures and unfair‑prejudice claims. Strong governance and clear decision‑making are essential to protect long‑term value.

Is your Family Business running on outdated documents? Corporate Partner, Charlie Hewlett explores why long‑forgotten articles of association and shareholders’ agreements can hold back modern family enterprises, and how refreshing them can strengthen control, succession and the clarity families rely on.