This section provides explainers of and a guide to markets and manging your investments through both written articles and animated videos.
Most of the written content has three layers – short, medium and long versions. This is designed to enable you to choose the appropriate version depending on how much detail you want on each subject and your level of knowledge. We add to the content in this section on a periodic basis.
We hope you find this informative and beneficial. Please do get in touch if you would like to see any explainer not covered here by emailing us.
Introduction to investing
This short video examines some of the most commonly asked questions about investing.
The benefits of investing
Savings accounts can offer instant access and guaranteed returns. However, if the interest rate is below inflation, this will not provide a real rate of return. Investment markets have the potential to deliver real rates of returns over the long term.
Where to invest
This video explains how to invest in markets and the why choose different asset classes.
Using funds
Rather than investing directly in asset classes, you use a fund which provides you with access to professional investors and diversification. This video explains the different types of funds that are available and the benefits of using them.
Managing risks
There is a strong link between the level of risk you take and the potential returns over the long term. This video walks you through how these risks might vary depending on the type of investment, and some ways you might try to manage them.
Buying the dip
Buying the dip sounds a sensible investment approach as it seeks to invest at low prices and sell high. But this is not an easy investment strategy to execute and indiscriminate buying does not necessarily mean you will find investments with long-term value.
Inflation and purchasing power
Even low inflation, if left unchecked, could have a significant impact on your finances. The good news is that, over the long run, investments in asset classes such as equity and even fixed income should generate returns in excess of inflation.
Time in the market
Over the years, there have been many events that have had large impacts on stock markets, including the financial crisis in 2008 and the Covid pandemic in 2020. However, over the long term, staying invested in the market, rather than tying to time the best point to buy and sell, has proved a successful strategy.
What are asset classes
This article explains the different asset classes and discusses how they fit within a portfolio.
