Over a decade since the financial crisis, the world is still a very uncertain place. Despite that, investors have enjoyed the benefits of a strong run by stock markets around the world, coupled with record-low volatility.

However, it would be wrong to believe that market shocks are a thing of the past. From uncertainty over Brexit to the threat of rising tensions with North Korea, there are many risks that pose a challenge to investors now; and any number of unforeseen factors in the years to come.

Whilst these are beyond our control, they cannot be allowed to prevent individuals and families planning their financial future.

You will give yourself the best chance of achieving your financial goals if you focus on what you can control: how much tax you pay on your investments, the size of your retirement fund and how much of your estate passes to your family free of Inheritance Tax.

What’s vital is that you put together a plan and take the necessary steps to make those financial goals a reality.

The run-up to the end of the tax year provides individuals and couples with a final opportunity to take advantage of reliefs and allowances that would otherwise be lost; tax breaks that can help create long-term financial security for you and your family.

The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested. An investment in equities will not provide the security of capital associated with a deposit account with a bank or building society.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.