Recent UK and Scottish Budget announcements highlight an important reality of long-term financial planning: even the best-laid plans can be affected by changes beyond our control. Revisions to Inheritance Tax rules for family businesses, followed by a later policy reversal, created uncertainty for many owners – prompting difficult decisions that were often as emotional as they were financial. Proposed changes in the Scottish Budget, including “mansion tax” on more valuable homes, may also place pressure on families with long-held properties and fixed incomes, encouraging a reassessment of future plans.
History shows that tax and legislative change is inevitable. The key lesson is the importance of flexible financial planning that can adapt as circumstances evolve. Knee-jerk reactions based on incomplete information can prove costly, while thoughtful, informed decision-making helps avoid unnecessary pitfalls. Professional financial advice can provide clarity, perspective and confidence when navigating complex change.
Read the full feature here.
Editor’s Notes
Published in The Herald Business HQ 5th February 2026
Interview held by The Herald and Associate Financial Planner, Neil Burns.
The content of this article should not be regarded as advice. When considering Investments, independent financial advice should be sought.
Acumen Financial Planning Ltd is authorised and regulated by the FCA, FRN 218745.