The Financial Freedom of Getting Kids Off The Books!
Many Irish parents in their fifties are still financially supporting adult children—and it's quietly delaying their retirement goals. Key takeaways: • Each adult child can cost around €15k–€20k per year in ongoing support—rent, car, health cover, and general expenses. • Those costs directly reduce pension contributions and long-term savings, sometimes delaying retirement by years. • Using tools like the McClements Scale shows how each extra person in the home adds significant cost pressure. • Setting clear timelines, gradually stepping back support, and redirecting funds into pensions can rebuild financial freedom fast. When kids finally stand on their own two feet, your savings—and sanity—get a big lift! I hope it helps!
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The Real Cost & Value of Financial Advice in Ireland
You've probably wondered: what does financial advice actually cost in Ireland, and is it worth it? Indeed, many people are also probably wondering if they are actually paying for advice, who may or may not be getting any!? Many professionals in their 50s ask that question when they start thinking about retiring, reducing hours, or simply getting their finances in order. They may have accumulated assets through their careers, may or may not have had an advisor during that time, but are now considering the need as they plan their next chapter. At Informed Decisions, we believe clarity beats guesswork. So let's break down what you pay, what you get, and how to know if you're getting real value. What you'll learn: • Typical fees Irish advisors and providers charge • What clients (should) get for those fees • Whether advice adds measurable value to clients • How to tell if advice is independent and worth paying for • How to find a professional and transparent advisor
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Annuity vs ARF: What's Best for a €1 Million Pension Pot in Ireland?
If you're retiring in Ireland with around €1 million in pension savings, one of the biggest questions you'll face is whether to take income from an ARF (Approved Retirement Fund) or to buy an annuity. In this episode, I break down both options in plain English — what they mean, how they work under Irish tax rules, and which might suit your lifestyle and risk appetite. Key Points: What's an ARF? What's an Annuity? Typical Income from a €1m Pension Taxation Pros and Cons I hope it helps
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How To Invest Your Pension at 50 (Make €1m extra in 10 years!?)
In this week's podcast, I talk about investing your pension at 50. Turning 50 is a wake-up call for your pension. It's not about panic - it's about planning smart. Here's what matters most: Key Points: • At 50, your goals shift — you're closer to retirement, but growth still counts. • Review your pension funds now: what's in equities, bonds, or cash? • Rebalance gradually. • Diversify — global funds, low costs, and no guesswork. • Check old company pensions. Consolidate only if it saves on fees or boosts control. • Understand your tax position — up to 25% tax-free lump sum (max €200k). • Know your retirement routes: ARF for flexibility, annuity for certainty. • Independent financial planning helps avoid big mistakes — and stress! I hope it helps.
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Unregulated Investments in Ireland: Fees, Lessons & What to Avoid
In this week's podcast, I unpack the growing issue of unregulated investments in Ireland — from headline-grabbing collapses to the hidden risks facing everyday investors. Discover why so many well-intentioned savers were caught out, what to watch for, and how to protect yourself from high-risk "opportunities" that promise too much. Key points: The rise and fall of high-profile unregulated firms like Arena Capital, BlackBee, and Custom House Capital Why ordinary savers — not just speculators — were drawn into risky investments How commissions and incentives can cloud financial advice The lack of Central Bank protection and investor compensation for unregulated products Common fee structures and hidden costs investors often overlook Practical steps to verify if an investment is regulated Simple rules to stay safe and avoid losing hard-earned savings Disclaimer The content of this site including blogs and podcasts is for information purposes only. Everybody's financial situation is different and the content we share on our site and through podcasts may not be applicable to you.
About Informed Decisions Independent Financial Planning & Money Podcast
Take control of your financial future by joining us on Ireland's Independent & award-winning Investment & Retirement Planning Podcast, with Paddy Delaney (QFA RPA APA).
Join Paddy & guests as they cut through the noise, nonsense and smoke-n-mirrors of financial services in Ireland. We want you to avoid costly mistakes and to make informed financial decisions in your investments and retirement planning.
Paddy Delaney QFA RPA APA
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