Economy  

Almost a fifth of HNWs considering leaving the UK

Almost a fifth of HNWs considering leaving the UK
HMWs have increased confidence in the UK economy since last year. (Pixabay)

Thousands of high net worth individuals could soon leave the UK in the face of possible tax rises. 

The annual Saltus Wealth Index Report showed an "undercurrent of concern" from the group, despite overall confidence in the economy improving.

The survey took place in July, after the Labour government was elected but before any tax announcements. 

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 It set out some HNWs were anxious about the upcoming Budget and potential policy changes. 

John Macintosh, managing partner at Saltus, said: "The survey took place following the departure of an unstable government (that in a few years had presented the UK with more prime ministers than Bob Dylan has had number one hits) and in the wake of some better GDP growth figures.

"However, an undercurrent of concern remains. HNWIs are stretched. They are supporting family members; there is discontent about tax, which becomes more pronounced when specific measures like VAT on school fees are raised; and, perhaps most worryingly, a significant proportion of our sample are considering moving overseas

"The shoulders might be broad but they may not stay in the UK."

Overall, 16 per cent said they were considering leaving the UK permanently in the next year while 33 per cent were considering a long-term move. 

This changes depending on age with 63 per cent of those aged 18-24 saying they are definitely considering moving abroad compared with 51 per cent of 25-34 year olds and the same figure among 35-44 years olds.

This then falls to just 41 per cent of 45-54 year olds and to 23 per cent of those aged over 55.

The report said: "HNWIs are often ambitious, globally mobile individuals, and so it is not surprising that many maintain the ambition to live and work abroad at some point in their lives. This is supported by the fact that relatively high numbers of younger HNWIs are considering it, falling to a minority of older age groups.

"However, the potential for HNWIs to leave the UK in large numbers is worth watching given the significant impact this key group has on the prosperity of the UK economy."

The report also found there were concerns when it came to VAT on private school fees. 

It found 13 per cent of HNWIs with children at private school plan to move them into state education in the next year.

tara.o'connor@ft.com

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