The year-end peak travel season is here. The out-of-office is on, bags are packed, and our minds are already on that long-awaited holiday.
It’s also the perfect time to clear a few small, high-impact items from the financial to-do list, to start 2026 on a clean slate. We all know how hectic January can be. By the time you're back from the holidays, there’s work to clear, errands to run—all while dealing with post-holiday blues.
Get these to-dos out of the way now, so that you can enjoy your holiday without them sitting at the back of your mind. Here are three important items to strike off your to-do list before you go full holiday mode.
1. Take a portfolio pit stop
Regular reviews of your investment portfolio, such as quarterly, semi-yearly or yearly, is recommended to account for changes in the markets, and also in your needs and goals.
After a full year of market movements, it’s common for an investment portfolio to drift from its original allocation. For example, if equities had a strong year, a balanced 60/40 equity-bond portfolio might now be closer to 70/30. This could mean your portfolio is holding more risk than you originally intended.
Rebalancing is the simple, disciplined process to fix this. Periodically trimming the overweighted asset classes to return to your target allocation locks in gains and keeps your portfolio aligned with your long-term goals.
The auto-rebalancing feature of Endowus advised portfolios helps you stay aligned—and disciplined—with your target asset allocation without having to actively monitor the markets.
Be mindful that these regular portfolio reviews and rebalancing are not meant for you to make tactical bets in response to recent market news or events, which tend to be short term in nature. They should have little bearing on your investment goals and strategies.
2. Secure funds for upcoming tax payments
Don't let the tax demand sneak up on you – That bill hits you with two substantial payments: the first and larger half typically due in January, and the second in April. These payments include the final assessment for the past tax year and a provisional prepayment for the current year, making them substantial expenses.
The end of the year is the final opportunity to ensure these funds are fully secured, allowing you to start the new year stress-free.
- Review your tax demand note: Dig out your tax assessment to confirm the exact payment amounts and due dates for your January and April instalments.
- Create a dedicated savings pot: If you haven't already, consolidate the total amount due into a separate, easy-to-access savings account. This simple act ring-fences the cash and allows it to quietly earn interest until the payment date.
Actioning this by 31 Dec ensures the funds are secure before the holiday rush. Be ready to hit 'send' on that payment in January, so you can avoid the headache of late payment penalties and surcharges.
3. Calibrate your spending for next year
Starting the year on the right foot can set the tone for the coming months. Overspending by week two can feel like we have derailed from the path to financial goals and be demotivating.
Use the pre-holiday calm to set a clear plan for 2026, starting with a look back at spending patterns in 2025, accounting for potential big ticket spending ahead—not forgetting your income tax bill—and then determining your budget.
Take emotions out of your budgeting plan as much as possible. Collect data on your past spending patterns to troubleshoot overspending and areas for improvement. Set up automated recurring transfers to your savings and investment accounts to maintain discipline in your spending.
Check out the recurring investment feature on the Endowus app—link your bank account and invest your investment portfolios regularly.
New to us? Start today in a few simple steps and set up a portfolio that works on your schedule.
Spread the holiday joy to causes close to your heart
The close of the year is a natural time for reflection and sharing.
When you donate to an approved charity (those exempt under Section 88 of the IRO), you can claim a tax deduction. For donations of HK$100 or more, you can deduct the amount, up to 35% of your net assessable income.
While Hong Kong’s tax year officially runs until 31 Mar, taking action now helps you tidy up your financial records before the New Year rush. It ensures the donation is clearly logged in the current tax filing period that you will soon be tackling.
Lastly, go on do-not-disturb mode
Put your financial affairs in order, so they don’t sit at the back of your mind while on vacation.
Investing should not be stressful either—the science of markets has proven time and time again that a passive, long-term approach towards investing usually yields better results than frequent trading.
If you need guidance for your wealth planning, feel free to speak to our SFC-licensed client advisors.
And finally, once you’re all done, switch off the pesky work notifications, market news, or even trade alerts. Happy holidays!
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