Latest News

Maximising Capital Efficiency in Renewables: A Strategic Guide to Substantial Shareholdings Exemption (SSE)

In the rapidly evolving Energy and Renewables sector, liquidity is the lifeblood of innovation. As developers and investors move from initial planning to grid connection, the ability to recycle capital efficiently is a competitive necessity.

Armstrong Watson named as finalist for British Business Award in star-studded ceremony

Armstrong Watson has been shortlisted among the UK’s top employers to compete for a coveted accolade at the British Business Awards, featuring special guest George Clooney in a star-studded ceremony in Edinburgh on 30 April 2026.

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax: What It Means for Barristers (April 2026)

From 6 April 2026, the way self-employed barristers report their income will undergo a major transformation under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD for ITSA). This represents the biggest change to barristers’ tax compliance since the introduction of Self-Assessment in 1996/97, requiring digital record-keeping and quarterly submissions for those over certain income thresholds.

How HMRC’s approach to compliance is changing in 2026

In recent months, we have observed a marked shift in HMRC’s approach to tax compliance enquiries. While multi-tax enquiries are not new, what is new is the scale of cross-department collaboration and the depth of analysis undertaken long before HMRC ever sets foot on a business’s premises.

Reminder: Employer P11D Returns/Reminder to employers to report benefits in kind

All businesses, regardless of size, are required to report taxable benefits in kind and certain expenses provided to employees and directors. This is done annually through a P11D form submitted to HMRC.

Armstrong Watson continues expansion of financial planning team as demand for pension and inheritance tax planning grows

Armstrong Watson is continuing to strengthen its Financial Planning Team in 2026 with the recruitment of four new Financial Planning Consultants across its offices. Joining the firm are Charlotte Fletcher and Glyn Jenkinson (specialising in protection advice) in Leeds, Murray Greig in Glasgow, and Fiona Durham in Carlisle.

Budgeting and cash flow forecasting for farmers in uncertain times

For farm businesses, it is difficult to predict what will happen in 2026 or beyond. The only certainty seems to be that commodity prices will continue to fluctuate wildly – the recent fall in milk prices being an unfortunate example. More extreme weather patterns are also likely to impact crop yields, selling prices and input prices, while gas, oil and fertiliser prices have risen as a result of escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Our Latest Investment Market Update – Iran Conflict, Oil and Inflation

Our latest commentary on the financial investment markets and the wider economy. 

Iran conflict, oil and inflation.

How can struggling hotel owners regain stability and grow in 2026?

The UK hotel sector continues to face intense financial pressure. Rising labour and energy costs, interest rate volatility and changing travel behaviours have left many hotel owners struggling to maintain profitability - even with healthy occupancy. And there are further headwinds on the horizon.

Who is exempt from MTD for Income Tax?

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax will be introduced for self-employed individuals and landlords from 6 April 2026.