In recent years, ESG investing (also called sustainable, ethical or responsible investing) has taken a more prominent role in management and investment decisions. But what exactly does ESG mean, and how does it affect your investment portfolio? ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance and is a way of measuring and assessing a firm’s sustainability […]
Currency Hedging
If your portfolio contains assets held in a foreign currency, there is a risk that returns might be impacted by fluctuations in exchange rates. As a result, it can be worthwhile knowing how currency fluctuations impact returns. But what exactly is currency hedging, and is it worth the extra costs? How do currency fluctuations affect […]
Are Gifts Taxable?
Are gifts taxable? I am frequently asked the questions, what are the tax implications of giving money away? If I receive money as a gift, do I need to pay tax on it? The answers are varied. The most recent that I heard was in a meeting with someone who mentioned their tennis partner told […]
Every Little Bit Helps Charity
Align Financial supports a number of charities, one of them being Every Little Bit Helps, a registered charity that collects toiletries, airline amenity kits and cosmetic samples and distributes these items to those in need. They pack these items into individual kits and deliver to homeless shelters, asylum seekers, victims of Domestic Violence and troubled youth […]