2025 has been a busy year in politics and global events. January saw the inauguration of Donald Trump as US President, while conflict continued in Ukraine and Gaza. At home, the Labour Party faced continued fallout from their fiscal policies in 2024 as well as scrutiny ahead of a much-anticipated 2025 Autumn Budget.
At Jane Smith, we’ve been by your side all year. We’ve kept you up to date with the latest news from the world of finance, from navigating the end of the tax year to managing your money during grief.
Our team has also been busy reaffirming our commitment to the highest standards of advice and service, and, outside of the office, battling physical challenges in aid of incredible charities.
Keep reading for your look back at 2025.
January
In January, although she’s been with us since June 2024, we officially welcomed Lauren to the Jane Smith team, introducing you to her in our newsletter and giving you the opportunity to meet a crocheted menagerie of animals and beloved fictional characters.
We retained our Accredited status at the start of 2025, too. Accredited planners and advisers represent the most trusted financial planning firms in the UK, reflecting our commitment to the highest ethical and professional standards, and to providing you with exemplary service.
January also saw Nicola begin her latest epic charity challenge, to complete 12 marathons in 12 months for local charity Harry’s Rainbow and the MND Association.
Nicola took part in the Action Challenge Winter Walk through London, completing a massive 43km (27 miles) over eight hours of walking.
February
February saw Nicola complete three and a half laps of Pitsford Reservoir, ticking off 55,000 steps and her second marathon.
We also regained our Cyber Essentials certification, reaffirming our commitment to data security and giving you peace of mind that your personal information is in safe hands.
March
In March, you might’ve read about what Trump’s time in the White House could mean for the global economy over the next four years.
Outside of world politics and the economy, Nicola completed her third marathon, covering more than 27 miles around Grafham Water.
April
As the 2025/26 tax year began, we helped you to start the financial year as you meant to go on, with three simple mistakes to avoid.
On 12 April, Nicola was in Windsor for the Action Challenge Easter Challenge, completing more than 30 miles and her fourth marathon!
May
Jane Smith covered all the bases in May when we helped you at home and in the garden. You might’ve read 10 useful lessons from the world’s most successful investors or celebrated the arrival of spring with 10 important jobs to do in your garden and allotment now.
June
In June, Lauren and Nicola were delighted to be recognised by Professional Adviser in their Women in Financial Advice Awards. The pair were nominated in the Paraplanner and Financial Adviser of the Year awards, respectively.
The whole Jane Smith team is incredibly proud of them both, and the recognition was thoroughly deserved!
You might also have read about the value of client reviews, as Jane Smith Financial Planning was named a VouchedFor top-rated firm for 2025, as distributed by the Times.
This status is based on client reviews, so we really couldn’t have done it without you!
July
July saw us reach a milestone in our client referral scheme, as we reached £500 donated to Harry’s Rainbow through your referrals to friends and family.
Thank you for your continued support and for putting your trust in us.
August
In August, we proudly renewed our Chartered status, reaffirming our commitment to excellence and the highest professional standards.
You can read our blog from 2023 to find out what our Accredited and Chartered status means for you and your money.
We also celebrated the release of The Thursday Murder Club, the film based on Richard Osman’s best-selling and record-breaking crime novels. Find out what the Coopers Chase crimefighters can teach you about a happy retirement and the benefits of an active social life.
September
In September, Nicola celebrated her sixth year as a VouchedFor top-rated adviser. Again, this wouldn’t have happened without your reviews and continued support and trust in us. A huge thank you from the whole team.
October
Nicola reached the two-thirds mark in her charity challenge in October, completing her eighth marathon.
November
After pre-Budget speculation and reassurance, November brought your on-the-day Autumn Budget update, providing you with all the important announcements from the despatch box.
Nicola’s marathon this month involved 8.5 hours on the treadmill staring at the garage wall!
December
In December, as a busy year draws to a close and the dust settles on another significant Budget, read about the tax changes that could affect you next year, and the stealth taxes that will also see your bill rise, but which you might’ve heard slightly less about.
Nicola has her final two marathons to complete before the end of the year and would be very grateful for any donations you can make to help support Harry’s Rainbow.
It just remains to wish you all a very merry festive season and a happy New Year. And we look forward to your continued support in 2026!
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