Wealthy households braced for Autumn Budget tax hikes - here is how high earners are preparing

Wealth manager Evelyn Partners has pinpointed the top funds across various regions, providing a valuable resource for investors looking to safeguard their wealth ahead of the Autumn Budget. This guidance is particularly timely as it helps individuals navigate potential financial challenges posed by upcoming government policies, making it a crucial tool for informed investment decisions.

Rachel Reeves is being encouraged to adjust the national insurance rate by reducing it by 2p and reallocating that to income tax in her upcoming autumn budget. This proposal from the Resolution Foundation could potentially raise an additional £6 billion annually, which is significant for the economy. The move aims to create a fairer tax system and protect workers' earnings, making it a crucial discussion point for the government as it seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of the workforce.

In a significant legal development, Google and Flo Health have agreed to pay $56 million to settle a lawsuit concerning privacy violations related to their period-tracking app. This case highlights the ongoing concerns about data privacy and the handling of sensitive health information by tech companies. The settlement not only compensates affected users but also serves as a reminder for all app developers to prioritize user privacy and transparency in their data practices.

Meta is facing charges from the European Union for allegedly failing to adequately monitor and remove illegal posts on its platform. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges social media companies face in balancing user freedom with regulatory compliance. The outcome of this case could set significant precedents for how tech giants operate in Europe and may lead to stricter regulations in the future.

Former Federal Reserve leaders from various political backgrounds are urging the Supreme Court to reject Donald Trump's attempt to remove Fed official Cook. They argue that this move could threaten the independence of the central bank, which is crucial for maintaining economic stability. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between political influence and the autonomy of financial institutions, raising concerns about the future of monetary policy.

In a recent announcement, Trump stated that the U.S. government will provide aid to farmers until the benefits of tariffs take effect. This move is significant as it aims to support farmers facing challenges due to trade policies, ensuring they remain financially stable during a transitional period. By offering this assistance, the administration hopes to alleviate some of the economic pressures on the agricultural sector, which is vital for the country's economy.

Schlage has announced the expansion of its commercial portfolio with the introduction of new performance series locks. This move is significant as it enhances security options for businesses, providing them with advanced locking solutions that meet modern demands. The new locks are designed to offer improved durability and reliability, making them a valuable addition for companies looking to upgrade their security measures.

The US economy has shown a robust performance as the second-quarter GDP growth rate has been revised up to 3.8%, reflecting stronger consumer spending than initially reported. This revision is significant as it indicates a more resilient economic landscape, suggesting that consumers are confident and willing to spend, which is crucial for sustained economic growth.