Damien Talks Money

Learn how to make 2026 your strongest financial year by mastering the five pillars of finance—spending, earnings, taxation, investing, and retirement—with practical steps like reviewing your bank statements for intentional spending, negotiating pay raises, fixing tax codes, using Tax App for fast self‑assessment, and maximizing employer pension matches. The video also provides a downloadable Google doc of links, tools, and beginner‑friendly investing ideas (including starting with as little as £1) to help you implement these changes immediately and confidently.

In this 2026 Trading 212 beginner walkthrough, the presenter guides you through selecting the appropriate account (Invest, CFD, Stocks & Shares ISA, Cash ISA), completing KYC, claiming the free fractional share, and depositing funds via instant bank transfer. He then demonstrates how to buy and sell stocks and ETFs, navigate the new pull‑up menu, create and manage custom Pies, enable cash‑ISA interest, and use additional features such as notifications, share‑lending, and the Trading 212 card, while offering tips, tricks, and tax considerations.

In this video, Mariana Hunt from Fidelity International examines the generosity of the UK state pension compared to international standards, revealing that the UK ranks last in replacement rates but offers a unique system that encourages personal savings for retirement. The discussion highlights the implications of the triple lock mechanism, the responsibilities of individuals for their retirement funding, and the long-term sustainability of pension systems, ultimately questioning the balance between generosity and economic viability.

In this video, we discuss the recent changes to Cash ISAs and the implications for Stocks and Shares ISAs following the chancellor's budget announcement, which aims to encourage investment but raises concerns about increased complexity and potential tax implications. With plans to reduce cash ISA limits and close loopholes, the discussion focuses on the impact of these changes on investors and the overall trust in tax-efficient savings products.

In this video, we unpack the complexities of the UK Budget 2025, highlighting the unexpected changes in taxation and spending that have emerged amidst ongoing economic uncertainties. We explore the implications of these changes on individuals and businesses, particularly focusing on how the chancellor's decisions might impact future fiscal policies and the everyday taxpayer.

In this video, we dive into the staggering £1.3 trillion spent by the UK government last year, exploring key spending areas such as social protection, healthcare, and debt interest while analyzing how these expenditures reflect national values. By breaking down the budget through accessible comparisons and inflation adjustments, the video sheds light on the implications of current spending priorities and potential areas for reform, sparking discussion on what truly matters to the UK populace.

In this eye-opening analysis of the stock market's current concentration trends, the host reveals how a significant portion of global investment is funneled into just a few tech giants, raising questions about the implications for investors. With a mix of humor and personal anecdotes, he shares insights on how this concentration can impact returns and offers strategies for maintaining a diversified portfolio in a rapidly changing market.

In this video, we explore the complex question of how much you need to save for retirement, focusing on three critical factors: when you start saving, how much of your income you can allocate, and your desired retirement age. Additionally, a free tool is introduced to help personalize your retirement savings plan, empowering viewers to take control of their financial futures and thrive in retirement.

In this thought-provoking video, the creator explores the reliability of market predictions, revealing that even prominent financial experts often have poor track records compared to random chance. The discussion emphasizes the importance of having a solid investment strategy rather than relying on speculative forecasts, highlighting the inevitability of market fluctuations and the need for investors to manage their responses to such events.

In this engaging video, the host explores the concept of social and economic self-ranking using the MacArthur scale, comparing individual earnings to friends' and society's averages. Through a blend of humor and data analysis, viewers are invited to reflect on their own perceived social status while uncovering the biases that affect how we evaluate our wealth relative to others.

In this thought-provoking video, the host explores the fine line between investing and gambling, challenging the perception that investing is merely a form of gambling. Through a detailed analysis of risk, ownership, and the long-term benefits of investments versus the short-term stakes of gambling, viewers are encouraged to reconsider their financial strategies and the true nature of these activities.

In this video, we explore the UK government’s controversial decision to change how inflation is measured, affecting around 10 million pensions and potentially saving the government £6 billion annually. By altering the Retail Price Index (RPI) and adopting a flawed calculation, the government has eliminated significant debt obligations without much public awareness, raising questions about ethics and accountability in fiscal policy.

In this video, the creator shares valuable insights gained from 14 years of investing experience, emphasizing the importance of risk management, long-term consistency, and low-cost index funds as fundamental strategies. Rather than seeking quick wealth, they advocate for a disciplined approach to protecting one's purchasing power and creating financial freedom over time.

In this video, the host delves into a contentious discussion around state pensions, exploring whether individuals receive more from the system than they contribute through National Insurance. Through analysis of demographic data and projections, he reveals that most pensioners, particularly women and lower earners, are net beneficiaries of the state pension, sparking a broader conversation on the sustainability and fairness of the current pension system.

In this thought-provoking video, we delve into the historical and modern implications of debt forgiveness, exploring concepts like ancient debt jubilees and their potential relevance today. By analyzing the idea of implementing a land value tax, the discussion challenges us to reconsider how we handle wealth distribution and economic equity in our contemporary society.

In this insightful video, the impact of a stealth tax known as fiscal drag is dissected, revealing how it affects all workers in the UK by keeping tax thresholds frozen against inflation, leading to higher effective tax burdens. Viewers will learn why this issue, often overlooked, significantly erodes purchasing power and how it has become a tool for politicians to generate revenue without overtly increasing taxes on workers.

In this video, the presenter discusses the critical state of the UK's pension system, highlighting concerns over the sustainability of the triple lock and proposed changes to the state pension age. Through exploring reports from the OBR and the IMF, as well as potential reforms, the video encourages viewers to engage in a conversation about the future of pensions in the UK while emphasizing the need for long-term solutions that can benefit both current and future generations.