2025: Taxed to the Max or Free to Grow?

Where wealth moved in 2025 and why 2026 needs a smarter approach

Key Takeaways:

• FTSE 100 and gold posted record returns but gains are fully taxable

• UK property under pressure with rising taxes and flat valuations

• Collectible cars offer capital gains tax-free returns

• Modern classics like Porsche, BMW M, Ferrari saw double-digit gains

• Real-world, tangible assets are gaining favour with HNW investors

Taxed Assets: Strong Returns, Shrinking Net Gains

2025 was a standout year for traditional markets but not necessarily for the net return.

The FTSE 100 surged over 20 percent, hitting multiple record highs. The S&P 500 followed closely behind, buoyed by AI optimism and rate-cut expectations. Gold climbed past $4,400 per ounce, and silver rose by 140 percent—outpacing most stock indices.

But here's the catch. These gains are fully exposed to Capital Gains Tax. For UK investors, that means thresholds have been cut, dividend allowances reduced, and future reforms are on the horizon.

UK property also struggled. While still a pillar of private wealth, it's now under pressure. Stamp duties are rising, mortgage relief is shrinking, and tax changes for non-dom owners have cooled appetite. With flat capital growth in many high-end areas, the post-tax picture is less attractive than ever.

In short, taxed assets performed, but HMRC took a larger share.

Tax-Free Assets: Performance with Protection

Now to the good news.

Collectible cars remain exempt from CGT in the UK, and smart capital is taking notice.

While most classic car segments softened in 2025, modern classics cars from the 1980s through early 2000s have delivered real returns. The HAGI BMW Index rose 16 percent, rare Porsche values climbed 7 percent, and the ultra-rare Maserati MC12 gained over 50 percent.

Why the momentum? A new generation of collectors is chasing the analogue, limited-run icons they dreamed about in their youth. Think 997 RS 4.0, Ferrari 599 GTO, BMW M3 GTS. Just check out the SCD Video this Christmas to see why! These are scarce, visceral, emotionally charged assets with global demand and zero CGT.

With strong fundamentals, low correlation to traditional markets, and tax-free upside, modern classic cars are becoming serious portfolio assets for long-term planners.

Plan Smarter for 2026

If you're a HNW or UHNW investor reassessing how to balance returns, taxation and real-world value, now is the time to explore how collectible cars can fit into your strategy.

Whether through fractional shares in syndicated assets or direct ownership of a blue-chip modern classic, TheCarCrowd offers access to one of the UK's most compelling alternative asset classes.

Secure. Scarce. Tax-free.

Let’s talk about how to structure your 2026 with performance you can drive, and returns you keep.

Get in touch - david@thecarcrowd.co.uk or Whatsapp us on +44 7700 166961