When conversations turn to investing, the numbers usually dominate. How much is being contributed, whether it is enough, and how returns are tracking against expectations tend to frame the discussion.
Yet one of the most consequential investment decisions often receives far less attention - not how much you invest, but where you invest it.
Structure Matters
In financial planning, structure plays a remarkably powerful role. Two individuals can commit identical amounts, pursue similar investment strategies, but experience meaningfully different outcomes over time. The difference frequently lies not in investment selection, but in how those investments are organised.
Accessibility of Funds
The wrapper, the tax treatment, the accessibility, and the long-term flexibility attached to an investment can quietly shape results for decades. Tax efficiency, future income options, estate considerations, and behavioural factors all intersect at this structural level. It is here (often behind the scenes) that planning decisions can either enhance or erode financial outcomes.
Utilise Your Allowances
Each tax year provides a framework of allowances designed to support efficient saving and investing. ISAs, pensions, and other vehicles each offer distinct advantages, yet prioritising between them is rarely a one-size-fits-all exercise. What proves valuable for one investor may be less appropriate for another, depending on objectives, time horizons, and personal circumstances.
This is where thoughtful and, most importantly, bespoke financial planning becomes essential. Good investing is not solely about pursuing returns; it is about ensuring the surrounding structure supports flexibility, resilience, and efficiency over the long term. Even strong portfolio performance can be undermined by assets held in sub-optimal arrangements, while well-structured investments can help deliver benefits that compound quietly alongside growth.
The Upcoming Tax Year
With the approach of a new tax year, many investors naturally revisit contribution levels. It may be just as valuable to revisit something else: whether the overall structure of existing investments remains aligned with changing legislation, evolving goals, and future plans.
Because while contribution amounts matter, structure often determines how effectively that money works. And for many investors, the most important question should start with “Is my investment structure working as hard as my money?” and not the other way around. Those who take the time to step back and review may find that relatively small adjustments can help create disproportionate long-term advantages.
If you would like to speak to a Financial Planner regarding your finances, you can call 0344 259 0002 or email financialplanning@redmayne.co.uk.
Written by Vittoria Vaccaro DipPFS | Financial Planner, Redmayne Bentley
Please note that this article is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation or financial advice. The value of investments and any income derived from them may go down as well as up and you could get back less than you invested. Please note that tax treatment depends on the specific circumstances of each individual and may be subject to change in the future. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax or estate planning.