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29-year-old aims to improve structure of £60k Isa

This young investor worries that he is too exposed to equities. But our experts say his fears might be misplaced
August 13, 2015

David is 29 and wants to improve the structure of his stocks and shares individual savings account (Isa) portfolio.

He says: "Over three years I have accrued an Isa portfolio of more than £60,000. This is spread across 30 holdings from direct equities to index trackers and actively managed funds."

In addition to the Isa portfolio, which is earmarked for his retirement and to fund his children's education, David has £3,000 in euros and £4,000 in a cash Isa. He owes £99,000 on a property worth £310,000.

"Having read the 'cannon’ of investing books, I have learned to confidently read an annual report and analyse a business. Apart from a few instances of short selling, I am a buy-and-hold investor," he says.

"However, I have never considered the shares 'together'. I simply bought and sold businesses when I deemed it appropriate.

"I really worry about whether I have too much in equities. I also wonder whether perhaps I have too many shares and may risk underperforming in the future unless I keep up with the research.

"I am open to a medium level of risk. I purchased European equities during the latest Greek crisis. I treated this as an opportunity to increase exposure to mainland Europe.

"I do not panic when holdings decrease in value, generally, unless it is clear that the underlying business has changed or the investment case has altered. I have a very long time horizon (20-30 years) and therefore want to acquire a sensible balance of equities and cash in Isas for my age bracket."

Reader Portfolio
David 29
Description

Individual savings account

Objectives

Retirement income and children's education fund

DAVID'S ISA PORTFOLIO

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