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All you need to know about Isas

INVESTMENT GUIDE: After years of conspicuous consumption, saving is back in fashion
February 17, 2009

After years of conspicuous consumption, saving is back in fashion. Individual savings accounts (Isas) offer an excellent way to build your savings and investments without sharing the spoils with the taxman.

If you're rusty on the basics of these fantastic accounts, our introduction '' will put you right.

While a high interest rate is the main thing to look for in a cash Isa, it isn't the only consideration, as we show in ''.

Of course, in today's world of almost zero interest rates, you might want to consider something racier. If you prefer the idea of having professionally managed funds, check out our article '' for a checklist of what to look for.

With the stock market at low levels not seen for years, now might be a good time to pick individual shares for your Isa. Faith Glasgow explains what makes a suitable Isa holding in 'The right shares for your Isa'. Our team of specialist company writers highlight their favourite Isa picks in ''.