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A simple technology solution, markets in April, directors dealings and a peril to watch out for

We've been writing about oil a lot this week - from huge reservoirs trapped beneath thick layers of salt to the potentially game changing breakthough discovery in the South Falklands basin. In any sector prone to roller-coaster ups and downs - such as oil exploration - keeping on top of news flow and other developments is vital to minimise the risk of losses. Technology is another sector where things can go horribly wrong and an in-depth knowledge can make all the difference to your returns. Worried about their lack of understanding, and in spite of the potential for high returns, some investors make a point of avoiding risky and complicated sectors. But if you're looking for fast and sustained growth, technology companies have to be on your list. Our columnist Mr Bearbull is confident that in the tech sector he will find the strong long-term returns he's after. But what's the best way in? In an analysis of the three main ways to buy exposure, Mr Bearbull weighs up the pros and cons of each. Elsewhere Dominic Picarda explains why seasonal and cyclical factors remain in equities' favour for the month ahead and we report on two director deals - at Games Workshop and Mears - and update our views on those shares. Finally, Leonora Walters warns of the perils of relying on just one comparison site when you're shopping for a financial product and Mark Robinson explains why palm oil prices are rising and should continue to do so.
March 29, 2012

We've been writing about oil a lot this week - from huge reservoirs trapped beneath thick layers of salt to the potentially game changing breakthough discovery in the South Falklands basin. In any sector prone to roller-coaster ups and downs - such as oil exploration - keeping on top of news flow and other developments is vital to minimise the risk of losses. Technology is another sector where things can go horribly wrong and an in-depth knowledge can make all the difference to your returns. Worried about their lack of understanding, and in spite of the potential for high returns, some investors make a point of avoiding risky and complicated sectors. But if you're looking for fast and sustained growth, technology companies have to be on your list. Our columnist Mr Bearbull is confident that in the tech sector he will find the strong long-term returns he's after. But what's the best way in? In an analysis of the three main ways to buy exposure, Mr Bearbull weighs up the pros and cons of each. Elsewhere Dominic Picarda explains why seasonal and cyclical factors remain in equities' favour for the month ahead and we report on two director deals - at Games Workshop and Mears - and update our views on those shares. Finally, Leonora Walters warns of the perils of relying on just one comparison site when you're shopping for a financial product and Mark Robinson explains why palm oil prices are rising and should continue to do so.