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An ideal Isa investment, defensive shares, press tips and The Trader

Although the whole point of investing in shares and bonds is to make money, a top priority for some investors right now seems to be not to lose money. I listened in on some investor focus groups last week and it was clear that several of them are nervous about committing money to anything that doesn't have an "ultra safe" sticker on it. But while their fears are being fuelled by volatile markets, retreating to low risk investments is also making them anxious about being stuck in a low return rut. That's exactly why it's worth considering other options - such as spreading money across various asset classes or taking a long term view. Ultimately, if you want growth you need to follow growing markets - they might involve a greater degree of risk but with that comes the promise of greater rewards. Maike Currie is recommending one such area as an ideal investment for Isa holders, especially for those with a long term investment horizon, while Chris Dillow explains why cautious investors should not own more defensive shares than adventurous investors. Elsewhere John Hughman reveals which exciting story has managed to cheer him up after the unrelenting grind of having to read about financial crises every day for the past three years. The Trader gives his view of the markets and we've got our usual round up of press tips.
March 12, 2012

Although the whole point of investing in shares and bonds is to make money, a top priority for some investors right now seems to be not to lose money. I listened in on some investor focus groups last week and it was clear that several of them are nervous about committing money to anything that doesn't have an "ultra safe" sticker on it. But while their fears are being fuelled by volatile markets, retreating to low risk investments is also making them anxious about being stuck in a low return rut. That's exactly why it's worth considering other options - such as spreading money across various asset classes or taking a long term view. Ultimately, if you want growth you need to follow growing markets - they might involve a greater degree of risk but with that comes the promise of greater rewards. Maike Currie is recommending one such area as an ideal investment for Isa holders, especially for those with a long term investment horizon, while Chris Dillow explains why cautious investors should not own more defensive shares than adventurous investors. Elsewhere John Hughman reveals which exciting story has managed to cheer him up after the unrelenting grind of having to read about financial crises every day for the past three years. The Trader gives his view of the markets and we've got our usual round up of press tips.