The Steps to Investing Podcast: Recent Episodes
Steps to Investing
Marcus de Silva and Simon Longfellow help you get to grips with the world of investing through their nearly 30 years of combined experience in the City, interviewing expert investors, economists, advisers, and financial entrepreneurs, and reviewing the latest and greatest investment products and services.
FREE, 7-day quick-course - teaching you all the basics to get started with investing - available at stepstoinvesting.com
In our Big Interview, we speak to interactive investor's Myron Jobson, to find out why crypto investing has become so popular in the UK and ask if it's all just a big con. In markets, we find out whether China is managing to bounce back strongly from Covid restrictions, how the US debt ceiling negotiations were settled, and the latest on the health of the UK economy. And in companies, we get the latest headlines on Soda Ash, Vodafone and Three UK, Microsoft, Shell, and Apple. Please subscribe and share.
This week, in our Big Interview, we speak to interactive investor’s Alice Guy, and try to answer whether you should hang up your workplace pension in exchange for a private one, like a SIPP. In markets, we examine a banking crisis and a debt ceiling crisis in the US, and look at how China is getting on in its post pandemic recovery. In companies, we look a mega-tech, and explore the results of Apple, Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft, and Netflix. Please subscribe and share.
In this week’s show, we kick off our AVI Early Bird Investor campaign, and speak to AJ Bell’s Laith Khalaf as well as renowned investment journalist Cherry Reynard, to find out why you need to get investing as soon as possible as the new tax year begins. Elsewhere, in Markets, we look at poor US and UK economic data as well as how China's economy is faring following the relaxation of its Covid rules this year; and in Companies, we shoot through the headlines on Royal Mail, WH Smith, Diageo, Warner Bros, and EasyJet. Please subscribe and share.
This week, it’s family time as we explore investing for our children with AJ Bell’s personal finance guru, Laura Suter. Elsewhere, in markets we look at an averted banking crisis, some positive economic data in the UK, and the surging price of oil; and in companies we get the headlines for Virgin Orbit, Tesla, AstraZeneca, Cineworld, and L’Oreal. Please subscribe and share.
SPECIAL: We speak to interactive investor's Myron Jobson to examine how ISA millionaires go about investing and differ from regular ISA investors, as well as Lord John Lee, the UK first ever ISA millionaire, to find out what's in his secret sauce in becoming an ISA millionaire. Elsewhere, we look at the impact of a simmering banking crisis in 'Markets', as well as five headlines in 'Companies', including some disappointing results from John Lewis. Many thanks to our sponsors Alliance Trust. Please subscribe and share.
This week, we speak to Dan Brocklebank from Orbis Investments about the industry norm for investment fees, why they potentially create issues for end investor outcomes, and whether there’s a better way. In markets we look at inflation data out of the US, the housing market in the UK, and how China is getting on following loosening of Covid restriction earlier this year; and in companies, we run through the headlines for ARM holdings, Cineworld, AB Inbev, WH Smith, and BP. Subscribe and share.
This week it’s PensionBee and pensions expert Becky O’Connor discussing the cost of three different standards of living, how big a pot you need, and some top tips for getting there. In markets, we look at positive data in the UK, negative data in the US, and some relief in energy markets; and in companies, in the midst of earnings season, we discuss AstraZeneca, Compass, Deliveroo, Nestle, and Lilt. Please subscribe and share.
This week, we speak to AJ Bell’s professional fund selector Ryan Hughes to get his top tips on choosing good active funds – those with fund managers selecting investments. Elsewhere, we hear about interest rates, rosy data and spy balloons in Markets; we get a reminder on ISAs in our Explainer; and we look at controversial profits in the Oil & Gas sector in our Companies report. Please subscribe and share.
This week, we speak to expert trader Ross Maxwell to understand the differences between trading and investing, and get his view on how attractive cryptos and various global stock markets are. Elsewhere, we hear why the UK is has been performing strongly recently; analysis from AJ Bell’s on which out of the 27 different investing strategies that they’ve tracked have performed strongly over the past decade; and in companies, we’ll shoot through the headlines on Apple, Microsoft, Netflix, Burberry and Deliveroo. Please subscribe and share.
In our first episode of season 6, we peer into the crystal ball and speak to Darius McDermott, managing director at Chelsea Financial Services, about his expectations for stock markets in 2023, including where he thinks there are investment opportunities and the funds he would choose for investors seeking different levels of risk. In addition, we hear about energy, China and the UK in markets; we look at how much you need to save for basic, moderate and comfortable standards of living in retirement in our explainer; and we hear how some common households names have been faring in the tough economic environment in our companies report. Please subscribe and share.
In our Christmas Special and last episode of season 5, we listen to Keshav Lohiya on what's driven high oil prices in 2022, Ben Constable Maxwell on the current state of the energy transition, Laith Khalaf on why the economy is facing an unusual recession, and Laith and Nick Britton on investing in this dreary economic climate. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE AND SHARE.
This week we chat to AJ Bell’s pension expert Tom Selby to get the latest industry updates and some tips for getting the most out of our pots. In markets, we look at China’s Covid changes and the drop in the price of oil. Our explainer looks at premiums and discounts and potential bargains in the investment trusts sector. And in companies we fly through the headlines on Theranos, Wirecard, JP Morgan and Twitter. Please subscribe and share.
In the final episode of our three-part special with Alliance Trust, we bring together the investing concepts discussed throughout the series and speak to beginner investor Samson as he starts on his journey in the stockmarkets. We discuss his feelings about savings in an inflationary environment, why he wanted to learn more about the seemingly complex world of investing, the ambitious financial goals he has set himself, and why he plans to take a long term approach.
We speak to interactive investor's senior personal finance analyst Myron Jobson, to dissect Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement and find out how changes may impact you. Elsewhere, in markets we hear out about some new economic data in the UK and why oil prices have been soft this past fortnight; in our explainer, we look into the collapse of crypto exchange FTX; and in companies we cover the headlines on Twitter, Disney, Shell and Manchester United. SUBSCRIBE AND SHARE.
Curious as to how to set about forming an investment plan that gets you to your financial goals? We speak to chartered financial planner (CFP) Felix Milton to find out what this entails. We also take a look at Fed and Bank of England recent interest rate moves and what this has meant for markets, and we shoot through headlines, including for Meta, Twitter, Made.com, and WeWork. Please subscribe and share.
In the second episode of this three-part mini-series special with Alliance Trust, we speak to chartered financial planner Sam Sloma to get the professional perspective on being a patient, long-term investor. We explore why investing in the stock markets over lengthy timeframes leads to wealth creation, how to get around your nerves when first investing and what to do to prepare, whether lump sum or drip-fed investments are best for returns, and why down markets are part and parcel of stock market investing. Subscribe and share.
Neil Woodford was a star fund manager at investment firm Invesco for 25 years before setting up on his own. All was well, and then, disaster. We speak to AJ Bell’s Ryan Hughes to find out what happened. Elsewhere in the pod, we hear the latest political drama in the UK and its impact on markets; some research from Alliance Trust quantifying the value of remaining patient when investing, especially when markets are volatile; and we hear the main company headlines, including from Shell, Meta, Credit Suisse, Unilever, and Lloyds.
This week we speak to AJ Bell's head of investment analysis, Laith Khalaf, to understand the unusual nature of the recession forecast by the Bank of England, and different investing strategies to get you through it. We also analyse what's been going in markets including reactions to US data and OPEC production cuts. We explain what's been going in with the UK gilt market and pension funds, and we look at four of the top stories in companies, including Starling, Tesco, Ikea and EasyJet. Please subscribe and share.
In the first of our three-part special exploring the benefits of being a patient, long-term investor, we speak to Moira O'Neill, private investor and FT columnist, to find out about her journey in investing. We chat through investing goals, getting started, dealing with market downturns, the benefits she has found with investing over the long term, and her top tips for those looking at volatile markets at the moment and wondering whether to take the plunge. Subscribe and share.
We speak to Simon French, chief economist at Panmure Gordon, to discuss the issues with the budget, and find out how economists and central banks got it so wrong with inflation. In markets, we focus on the turmoil in the UK government bonds, and explain what impact the Bank of England's monetary response will have. Plus, the headlines in companies, including Porsche, Apple, Twitter, and H&M. Please subscribe and share.
We speak to the Association of Investment Companies' (AIC) Nick Britton to get a run-down on the features that make investment trusts special, whether now is a good time to invest, and which trusts have a fighting chance of beating inflation. We also find out what's been driving price swings in markets; hear the details of UK PM Liz Truss' energy support package; and run through the top headlines in companies, including Shell, Tik Tok, John Lewis, Amazon, and Wirecard. Please subscribe and share.
We speak to Keshav Lohiya, an expert on oil markets, to understand what driving recent price swings, what’s going on in the energy transition, and how we might invest in oil and the risks involved. Elsewhere, we find out what’s been upsetting our dreary markets, the latest meme stock Bed Bath and Beyond, and our new quick-fire look through company news. Please subscribe and share.
We speak to M&G's Head of Sustainable & Impact Investing, Ben Constable Maxwell, to discuss the changing landscape for energy security and its impact on the energy transition from polluting hydrocarbons towards greener forms of fuel. In addition, we see why markets have been feeling a bit happier over the past fortnight, what the fund manager of world's biggest sovereign wealth fund thinks of market presently, the man wanting to buy Man U, the shake-up an activist investor thinks Disney should go through; plus, three investment trusts Hargreaves Lansdown point to that are assisting the energy transition. Please subscribe.
We speak to Darius McDermott, Managing Director at Chelsea Financial Services, to get his take on heady inflation and central bank responses, plus three investment opportunities to consider and one to avoid. In addition, we look at the counter-balancing forces impacting markets presently; a star hedge fund that's having a year to forget; what the OPEC cartel has decided on oil production; naughty supermarkets when it comes to the pumps; BP's results; plus three little stock stories. Please subscribe.
Back for season 5, we speak to Laura Suter, AJ Bell's head of personal finance, on the cost of living crisis: what's been driving inflation, how the government are helping and what more they could do, how its impacting our savings, and which areas of the market might be a good place to weather inflation. Before that, we look at how assets have been performing in the first half of the year, some tips on what to do during market volatility from a renowned fund manager, and the top stories in companies and market. Please subscribe and share.
Continuing on our mission to bring you fresh investment ideas, in this episode we speak to Simon Gergel, fund manager of The Merchants Trust Plc, a UK focused investment trust, to examine the investment strategy and its aims of delivering rising income and long term capital growth for investors. For more information, please visit its website: www.merchantstrust.co.uk
We speak to the FT's Investors Chronicle Funds Editor Dave Baxter about the merits of different fund structures, whether brand is important, building a portfolio that gets you to your goals, what's happening at giants Scottish Mortgage and Fundsmith, and where we are with sustainable investing strategies. We also look at the latest inflation figures, house prices and crypto markets; we hear why the broad stockmarket is very unhappy; plus in companies, we find out which gigantic porn site's execs have been sent on their way. Please subscribe and share.
This week, we speak to interactive investor’s Senior Personal Finance Analyst, Myron Jobson, to chat through the financial landscape for young people: the impact of the cost of living crisis, the financial goals they’re striving for, the platforms they’re using, and the investments they prefer. Elsewhere, we look at HMRC figures on saving and investing, house prices rises, tumultuous markets, toxic TikTok, and much more. Please subscribe and share.
In this episode, we focus on pensions and speak to AJ Bell's Head of Retirement Policy, Tom Selby, to find out the impact of the cost of living crisis on young people's pensions, how Richard Curtis is pushing us into green investments, free guidance from the government, and whether triple-lock guarantees for state pensions will become a policy relic. Elsewhere, we discuss April's inflation figures, Chancellor Rishi Sunak's latest announcements to help with the spending squeeze, juicier prizes in premium bonds, and much more. Subscribe for the latest.
We speak to Ross Maxwell, founder of Key Zone Traders, in the latest episode, looking at how trading differs from longer term investing, the different kinds of trading styles, and how Ross would approach more volatile markets. Before the interview, we also see which funds investors are pulling money out of; we analyse the impact of rising interest rates on savings, credit cards, and mortgages; we look at what's driving the turmoil in markets at the moment, including cryptos; and in companies, we hear how Hargreaves Lansdown is faring following a thunderous year in 2021. Please subscribe and share.
We speak to investment journalist Ed Bowsher and discuss the healthcare sector and its various sub-sectors as an interesting investment theme, with some example passive and actively managed funds as a way of accessing the idea. We also discuss where young people are investing, we look at some FTSE100 firms on Earth Day and the challenging targets they're setting themselves to become greener, we look at a survey the Bank of England ran looking at the impact of the cost of living crisis; plus, what's weighing on markets, and two social media stories.
This week, we speak to Cherry Reynard about her article in the latest Get Investing magazine, as she discusses property in its various guises as a way of achieving returns ahead of inflation. We also take a look at the latest CPI figures and what this may mean for pension saving; the latest funds that investors have been buying; then in markets, how central are tackling inflation; and in companies, what Elon Musk is trying to buy.
We speak to award-winning journalist Faith Archer on the best ways to invest for your children, covering everything from savings accounts, junior ISAs, junior SIPPs, and premium bonds. We also touch on where price rises are concentrating in the inflation picture; the paltry response from Chancellor Rishi Sunak in the Spring Statement; plus a rotation stalled in Markets; and a rebuff from a sharp dresser in companies.
We speak to wealth management giant Brewin Dolphin's Richard Harwood, to get his thoughts on markets at the moment and dealing with volatility, and some financial planning essentials including considerations when retiring and how much cash savings is the right amount. Elsewhere in the pod, there's a look at best savings products, why a certain group exiting the workforce is worrying AJ Bell's pension policy head Tom Selby, we look at the rising costs and taxes to expect come April; plus, central bank moves in markets, and why Cineworld has a debt headache.
This week, we follow on from our conversation on inflation, and take a wide-ranging look at the assets that have a fighting chance of beating inflation with AJ Bell's head of investment analysis, Laith Khalaf. We also focus on the impact of the tragic Ukraine / Russia war, examining how investors have reacted in the buying and selling of their investments, the potential impact on economies, and the effect on companies exposed to the crisis in the UK market. Plus, we reveal the top performing funds and investment trusts over the past two decades.
Simon French, chief economist at investment broker Panmure Gordon, gives a top-to-tail on inflation and how central bankers are attempting to tackle it. We also run through the attractive latest issuance of government green bonds, calming house price rises, savvy investing from ISA investors; plus, tension in the markets, and the latest from Ericsson, Google, and Disney. New website at stepstoinvesting.com
Our big conversation this week is with Chris Rudden, Moneyfarm's investment consultant manager, as we delve into the technology behind some of the hottest UK Fintech start-ups, and imagine how digital wealth management will evolve in the years to come. We also hear on China's stock market performance over the past year as we pass into the Year of Tiger, we look at trade body The Investment Association's report on what investors have been buying over 2021, we hear about the crosswinds markets are facing, and how Facebook and Alphabet's have fared in their latest results. New mag: https://bit.ly/3zeLuuG.
This week, we explore the 'buy and hold' investing strategy, including why it could be better for your returns over the long term, and what exactly these sorts of investments looks like. Elsewhere, we discuss the latest eye-watering inflation and ways to invest that have a fighting chance of beating it; we look at Venture Capital Trusts and their surging popularity; we hear what the FCA think on the newfangled digital banking apps and how they're competing with traditional banks; plus, plenty in markets and companies. New magazine: https://bit.ly/3zeLuuG
Back fresh for the first episode of the new season in 2022, we speak to top journalist Ed Bowsher about protecting our wealth as much as growing it as a good long term strategy for our pensions. We also take a look at what investors have been buying over 2021, and peer forward at things to think about across the different asset classes of shares, bonds, property, gold, and cash in 2022, with AJ Bell's top analyst, Laith Khalaf. NEW: free investing mag out now!! https://bit.ly/3zeLuuG
Starting the new year off with some fresh ideas to help you invest, we speak to AVI Global Trust's fund manager, Joe Bauernfreund, to dissect the strategy and find out about its value investing approach, and how it aims to achieve capital growth for investors through the three sectors in which it invests. We also discuss the importance of shareholder activism to Trust, markets without stimulus, and Joe's thoughts to the performance of value investing in the years to come. Find out more at assetvalueinvestors.com.
Fund Manager of the Jupiter Green Investment Trust Plc, Jon Wallace, takes us through this environmentally focused strategy from top to bottom, including what it's trying to achieve for investors, the six investment 'themes' that drive stock selection, how the investment trust structure aids the investing process, the latest sector policy developments, and which areas Jon is feeling excited about in his outlook for next year.
We speak to Faith Archer as she discusses her upcoming article for the Get Investing magazine, out at Christmas. We explore what tips there are to boost your pension, especially if you're close to retirement and haven't been as enthusiastic with contributions as you would've liked in your younger years. In addition, we hear the latest (eye-watering) inflation figures, the impact of the end of the stamp duty holiday on house prices, what the government tell us we can save through ISAs; plus, what central banks have been saying and doing, and why markets have been choppy; and an upcoming IPO from a popular message-board company. Back Jan 6th. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year everyone! Many thanks for listening.
We speak to head of sustainable and impact investing at M&G, Ben Constable Maxwell, to paint a picture of the most popular sector for private investors at the moment. We hear what specific actions the latest UN Climate Change Conference, COP26, has targeted, and some interesting side developments; the impact private investment is having on solving the world’s problems; what fund managers mean when they say they’re de-carbonising their portfolios; and the strides being made in the corporate reporting of sustainability risks. Free investing mag: https://bit.ly/2TDe2NN
Sponsored - If you're seeking income from shares given extraordinarily low interest rates, but would like an income profile that's diversified away from mainstream markets, then Jupiter Emerging and Frontier Income Trust might be the investment trust for you. We speak to fund manager Ross Teverson to explain the strategy: the unusual markets where he seeks investments, the trends supporting its long term growth, his high conviction approach, the portfolio's three categories of income producing stocks, and whether the potential for rising developed market interest rates are a concern for the manager.
We speak to Anna Sofat, a trailblazer in women's wealth for three decades, and discuss the changing landscape for women's needs, why their goals encompass a wider set of outcomes, and the tendency for women to want fully understand investment risk rather than avoid it. In addition, we hear why the property market jumped again in the UK in September, the details and risks of 'Britcoin', the latest moves on triple lock pension guarantees; plus the usual fortnightly round-up of companies and markets. FREE MAGAZINE: https://bit.ly/3DwT9VZ
We run through five of the world's most exciting growth 'themes' in investing at the moment, with journalist Cherry Reynard. We look at what they are and how they can power your returns over long periods, and then we delve into five current themes and ways of accessing them through the funds that play them. We also have our regular look at what's moving markets, plus company and industry news. Check out our free investing magazine: https://bit.ly/3DwT9VZ
This week, we speak to award winning journalist Faith Archer, and find out why growth is so important in your pension given the freedoms that were enacted in 2015. Elsewhere in the pod, we hear why a drop in UK inflation hasn't been widely cheered, what caused the surge in property sales here last month, insights from the FCA's research into why younger investors are taking the plunge into riskier assets, and the usual updates in markets and companies. NEW 'GET INVESTING' MAGAZINE: https://bit.ly/3DwT9VZ
We speak managing director of Chelsea Financial Services, Darius McDermott, to lift the lid on the three main styles of investing in shares: value, growth, and income. We chat through what they are and the history behind them, the typical companies involved and how they deliver returns to investors. We also look at what investors have been buying (or not buying!) over the past month, we hear why OPEC isn't helping with oil prices, how Brits are getting on with their personal finances, and the recovery in FTSE-100 dividends; plus the latest news in companies and markets. Please share!
This week we speak to Ed Bowsher about growth investing in the US, and explore why the kings of capitalism are so good at producing and growing the world's most innovative and exciting companies. Of course, Ed comes ready with some cheap and less cheap options for investing there, plus we go through our usual round-up of markets, companies and industry news. Please subscribe!
We speak to Elissa, who's facing some financial complexities as she tries to make sense of her late father's estate and provide a cashflow for her mother, as well as financial adviser Felix Milton, as he provides some pointers on what to do next and how advisers can help during these big life moments. Please subscribe.
We speak to Laith Khalaf, head of investment analysis at investing platform AJ Bell, to find out the key financial metrics as well as the softer aspects of a business you need to look out for in order to pick stocks. We also hear about new crypto services from PayPal, investor sentiment surrounding covid, PureGym's exciting plans, and the latest in the OnlyFans adult content saga. Please subscribe to get notified of the latest.
We take a deep dive into inflation with broker Panmure Gordon's chief economist Simon French this week. We look at the historical context of inflation and why its been falling for 30 years; why top economists around the world can't agree on whether its transitory or potentially longer term and more corrosive; what the potential lower and higher risk options are for beating it; plus crypto's role, and whether today's savings rates will prove to be that low over the longer term. PLEASE SHARE AND HELP US ON OUR MISSION TO DEMOCRATISE INVESTING!
We speak to Cherry Reynard, top investment journalist, about pesky inflation and the parts of the market best poised to beat it. We also take a look at the unfairness in initial public offerings, throw our own Olympic podium ceremony and hand out medals to funds for long term performance; plus all the usual in companies and markets. Free digital investing magazine out now: https://bit.ly/2TDe2NN.
We speak to markets and investments commentator Ed Bowsher to find out how to invest for cheap income. We hear what the problem is with savings rates, why picking good dividend stocks is fraught with difficulties, how expensive income funds could erode your returns, and Ed's top 3 income ETFs from around the globe for your portfolio. Free mag here: https://bit.ly/2TDe2NN
This week we speak to award winning journalist Faith Archer and go five rounds on the pros and cons of property versus pension to fund your retirement. We look at the income and growth potential of each, the tax benefits, which option leads to more hassle, whether access is an issue for either, and the income stream you're likely to receive once the golden years are upon you. FREE MAG (INCOME SPECIAL): https://bit.ly/2TDe2NN
We speak to author Iona Bain about her new book 'Own it!', as we go on a quest to see why younger people should be investing. We hear about the crises that have stumped us from the onset of adult life, how to make that first time home and secure financial future a reality, the FIRE movement and how a hybrid could be an appealing concept, and why trading apps are a revolution but could make access to investments almost too easy. Go to harriman-house.com/ownit and enter the code STI30 at checkout for a 30% discount. 1st chapter free here.
This week, we speak to private investor Mike Wilson about his investment journey from early saver to keen investor and soon-to-be retiree. We hear how he built his pension pot over the course of his career having been turned on to investing when he joined the City, the mistakes he made in risky investments early on and the important lessons he's learnt along the way, and the income choices he faces as he reaches retirement. New magazine out next week!
This week, it's global markets and investment opportunities. We find out what investing style top British screenwriter and film director Richard Curtis is waxing lyrical about; and we speak to Adrian Lowcock to get his view on the risks he sees with inflation, why the stage is set for The Roaring 20s 2.0, and three areas of the market he's favouring with fund ideas. Back in two weeks! YouTube tutorials live now: https://bit.ly/3wU0X0B
Simon and Marcus takeover the pod this week, and analyse new fund launches: the cost efficiencies, the risks involved with unproven strategies, the easiest route to getting involved; plus a dive into three new launches in the sustainable sector, why a financials sector specialist might be interesting, and what we mean by digital infrastructure and how to invest. NEW YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://bit.ly/3wU0X0B
We speak to AJ Bell's senior financial analyst this week to find out what's going on in the crypto-world: why it doesn't fulfil the role as money; how some are likening it to digital gold; the surprise when investment house Ruffer joined the party; the exorbitant environmental costs associated with the technology; and which regulator has reminded its citizens that crypto isn't legal tender. Please share and subscribe for the latest.
This week we take a look at the million pound ISA portfolio, and ask chartered financial planner Felix Milton how you might get there: how much you need to save, what rate of return is sufficient, the time it takes to get there, what asset allocation might look like; finishing with Felix's key mistakes to avoid, and top tips for building wealth. Please share if you're enjoying the pod!
We speak to Jill Jackson this week to find out how sustainability focused investment platform The Big Exchange emerged from a partnership with The Big Issue, and centres itself around the UN's 17 sustainable development goals: connecting them with a carefully selected suite of highly impactful funds to offer investors a simple and straightforward route into using their money to make a real difference. Latest investing magazine: https://bit.ly/3ddfgoU
This week, we speak to Rachel Springall from financial comparison site Moneyfacts. She tells us when its appropriate to save rather than invest, the main types of savings accounts and their lock-ups, why cash ISAs are still a good idea, which products still beat rising inflation; plus markets, companies, the funds retail investors are opting for. Free quarterly magazine for investment ideas: https://bit.ly/3ddfgoU
Equity crowdfunding is a revolutionary new area of Fintech, democratising access to both growth capital for business founders as well as investments for private investors like you and me wanting to get involved in their financing. Crowdcube is one of the first equity crowdfunding platforms in the world, and one of two largest in the UK. We speak to its chief commercial officer to find out about the mission it serves, the successes its had, the risk involved, and potential new developments for the industry in the future. Free magazine: https://bit.ly/3ddfgoU. More info at stepstoinvesting.com.
This week, we speak to award winning writer and broadcaster Ed Bowsher, and discuss why the legacy of passive products on markets and investor returns has largely been a good one; how they could be seen as making a stockpickers job easier; and why new, niche passive strategies such as those for ESG or value investing might sound great, but might not live up to what you expect. FREE magazine: bit.ly/3ddfgoU
This week, Simon and I discuss the potential for a new commodities super-cycle, kicking off with the basics and what comprises the four commodity groups; how they are traded and the use of derivatives in modern exchanges, stretching back to 1848; what makes them cyclical, and the four reasons why we might be at the beginning of a long run in rising prices. Read our new FREE magazine, out now: https://bit.ly/3ddfgoU
We speak to Tom Selby, pensions analyst from UK's second largest investment platform AJ Bell, to hear the latest developments in this rapidly evolving policy landscape. We hear if there were any giveaways in the latest budget, how new law The Pensions Schemes Act is aiming to make pensions 'safer, better and greener', what the department of work & pensions is doing to combat scams, and how the 'investment pathways' tool could help non-advised investors in the draw-down phase of their pensions.
Latest FREE magazine: https://bit.ly/3ddfgoU
Approaching the transition into the new tax year, we speak to award-winning journalists Faith Archer and Cherry Reynard, and round up all of the available tax breaks to make sure you're saving the pennies and using up your allowances; and delve into four unusual corners of the investment market to lend you a helping hand with some exciting opportunities for your ISA or SIPP, including 'doing good' investments, offbeat property, early stage financing, and super-cycle commodities.
FREE INVESTMENT MAG OUT NOW: https://bit.ly/3ddfgoU
Ever wanted to be a dragon backing Britain's brightest entrepreneurs, right at the very early stages when businesses are still finding their way? Well you can, in specialist funds called venture capital trusts (VCT). They come with all sorts of juicy tax breaks to encourage investment, and have been especially popular in recent years as investors seek out new parts of the market amid lacklustre returns from mainstream assets. This week, we find out all about VCTs from expert Nick Britton, from trade body the association of investment companies. SIGN UP AT STEPSTOINVESTING.COM TO RECEIVE NEW MAGAZINE, OUT THIS WEEKEND!!
If you’re interested in investing in property, peer-to-peer property lending is a novel way of accessing the market. This week, we speak to Roxana Mohammadian-Molina from BLEND network – a peer-to-peer property platform - as she describes how the process works; the ‘two-speed’ property market in the UK; how the market has surprised her during Covid; the types of properties they aim for to ensure they’re are sold; and how peer-to-peer platforms have revolutionised taking risk in the market. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE if you’re enjoying the pod.
This week we talk to Ben Seager Scott - a fund manager from broker Tilney group whose job it is to invest £7 billion of his client's money across different assets and funds around the globe. Ben takes us through why markets appear optimistic to him and the risks around stimulus withdrawal that are worth remembering; he talks on the prospect of inflation coming through over the medium term and the real assets that might do well in this environment; he discusses tech's success last year and why the sector may be weak for the moment; and finishes with his top three global investment opportunities right now. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE if you're enjoying the podcast.
This week we speak to private investor Woodie Dormandy about his investment journey from curious but sceptical beginner with no prior investment knowledge, to fully-fledged ISA and SIPP investor in just one week. We hear the niggles he had in the back of his mind about starting a pension, and how a friend piqued his interest in investing; we look to how he set about learning, forming goals, choosing platforms, wrappers and investments; and the excitement he felt when he finally pressed go and bought some funds. If you're looking to learn how to invest, our free email based course is available at stepstoinvesting.com
Sponsored - Bringing you close to the fund managers that run your money, in this episode of Ideas For Your Portfolio we speak to Joe Bauernfreund, CEO at Asset Value Investors and fund manager of AVI Global Trust Plc (and Japan Opportunity Trust). Joe takes us through the strategy, what 'value investing' means to AVI and why now is good time to invest in value; how investment trusts, family controlled holding companies, and Japan make up the three sectors they search for investments within; finishing with Joe's view on the economy and his outlook.
Simon and Marcus hog the pod this week as they take a deeper dive into popular investing trend ESG investing, a £10bn UK sector. They look to the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework that fund managers use to assess the softer metrics of a business; they discuss why this approach has the potential for superior returns and how performance data against regular investments is looking good thus far; and finish with a fund, an investment trust, and a passive ETF as examples of sustainable investments. Please subscribe for this and all of our shows on the Steps to Investing Podcast.
We look at the prospect of inflation this week and speak to broker Panmure Gordon's chief economist, Simon French. Whipping through the basics, we then look to why the expectations of inflation in a post-crisis world are rising; how technology has been the enabler of deflation and what impact this may have given its adoption has accelerated during the crisis; why Simon thinks deflationary forces are more powerful than inflationary forces in the long-run; and the potential effect of inflation on various assets and whether bitcoin could become the new gold.
We speak to Ben Constable Maxwell from M&G to discuss Impact Investing: the investing discipline that aims to tackle some of the world's most existential problems. We find out how Impact differs as a subset from the wider sustainable investment sector, and look to three big themes of the day: climate activism and how we shift towards a lower carbon future; biodiversity and how we mirror the natural environment to create a circular economy; and tackling the various roots of social injustice. PLEASE SHARE if you're enjoying the pod.
If it's not shares and it's not bonds, what can you invest in? Alternatives! This week we delve into niche investments with Darius McDermott - managing director at adviser Chelsea Financial Services and fund research outfit FundCalibre: explaining why they can be a useful ballast to mainstream investments in your portfolio before looking at the breadth of alternative investment strategies and some of the funds investing in these areas. If you're enjoying our podcast series - PLEASE SHARE.
This week we speak to the head of the UK's self-regulatory body for crytoassets, Ian Taylor of CryptoUK. He takes us through distributed ledger technology (DTL) - the innovative tech powering the digital currency; he answers why the London ecosystem as a global fintech capital is great for crypto based companies but that challenges in regulation remain; and he offers some thoughts on the arrival of institutional investors as a potential reason behind recent price volatility, and whether the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) was too harsh in its statement on cryptoassets. PLEASE SHARE if you're enjoying the pod.
In this week's show, independent financial adviser Felix Milton is back on the pod to discuss investing for your children. He answers why stashing a pot of cash away in a bank account is a bad idea, why you should focus on a junior ISA or junior SIPP for tax efficient savings, what kinds of investments might be appropriate given the long time horizons for children, and what advice he has for the 55,000 new adults emerging every month with maturing child trust funds. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE.
This week we take a look at some of the investment 'themes' - the innovative trends - playing out across stock markets that have the potential to generate strong long-term returns over the next decade: the growth of technology, and areas such as cloud computing and 5G networks; healthcare, and the drive for greater efficiencies and new treatments; and clean technology, as the world switches to more renewable sources of energy. Subscribe for the latest.
As the new year gets underway, we gaze in the crystal orb and ponder how 2021 will be different in markets. We assess the impact of vaccinations and find out what's putting a fire under the economy, we look at asset allocation and why there might be opportunities to take some risk and invest in more economically sensitive areas of the equity market, and we look at bonds and where it may be possible to find some yield. Our latest free, quarterly digital guide - Get Investing - is out now!
In our end of year review, we take a look at two themes that have emerged in the most listened to pods of 2020: pensions and platforms. Happy New Year to all our listeners! Simon and Marcus, Co-Founders.
This week we speak to one of the writers in the next edition of the Get Investing. guide to discuss how to invest to generate an income - more salient than ever given the rock bottom rates we currently get on our savings. We look at four areas: stocks - stressing the issues with pandemic related dividend cuts, and why investment trusts have useful features here; company and government bonds - as a lower risk option than shares for investors, but under unique distortion thanks to central bank action; property - and how risks exist in certain areas of the market that need avoiding, but with exciting opportunities thanks to ecommerce; and alternatives - including weird and wonderful investment areas such as solar farms or smart greenhouses.
This week it's investment trusts - a historic fund structure with roots in the private investor from the 19th century. We speak to James de Sausmarez, Director and Head of Investment Trusts at Janus Henderson Investors, a global investment firm, as he takes us through nearly 150 years of history: beginning in 1867 with the first trust launch, designed for the investor with 'modest means' - perhaps not the rich as you would expect - and discussing how they evolved, became less popular as open-ended 'funds' emerged with commission charging, and then rose again to become relevant today.
This week, we speak to Amplify Trading's Piers Curran, as we find out what trading is, which three skills are essential for the job, Piers' journey to co-founder at Amplify and what key bit of technology changed his company's fortunes, why he doesn't think robots will render trading void as a profession, finishing with his view on the 'vaccine trade' and whether there's still money to be made in the recent market rotation.
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Compare The Platform CEO Bella Caridade-Ferreira takes us through your essential tool in accessing the stock markets: investment platforms. She draws-out the differences between online brokers, robo-advisers, and 'full-fat' DIY platforms; the difficulties new players are finding in attracting clients, and how they might hope to be profitable in the future; why 'Vaccine Monday' created a perfect storm for platform tech; and what added bits of guidance might mark the future of the industry.
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This week we pull back the cover on the financial planning process and speak to a professional adviser, Felix Milton. We ask: how filthy rich do you need to be to afford one, are there some simple steps a DIY investor can take to plan more effectively, when does paying down credit card debt make sense, are premium bonds a good idea, and I have a house – is that my pension sorted?
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In this week's pod, we speak to the chief economist of an investment bank, and find out why the excitement in markets is justified and what investors are now focusing on, how the Bank of England buys lower interest rates and seeks to avoid high inflation, why managing the transition to a lower carbon economy needn't cost us growth, what we mean by gross national happiness, and how deglobalisation could be here to stay.
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In this episode, we speak to the investment association (IA) - a trade body whose members manage £8.5trillion! We discuss if Brexit has caused a widely predicted exodus from the City, whether actively managed funds are really under threat from passive ones, why funds with less easily traded assets need considering by private investors, whether sustainable investing will become the gold standard, and how the industry will evolve to better suit the private investor.
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In the second part of our focus on pensions, we talk to the digital investment platform PensionBee about their narrow focus: what benefits does this bring, what technology do they use in their operations, how easy is it to consolidate any former pensions, and how are their investment options tailored towards pension goals. Subscribe for the latest.
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This week, we take a deep-dive into the world of self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs), and speak to Tom Selby, a pensions analyst from fund platform giant, AJ Bell. So, what are pensions and SIPPs? What tax breaks and benefits do they bring? How does drawdown work? And how varied are the investments you can make within a SIPP? This pod has everything you need to know. Oh, and some companies and markets as per usual.
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This week we take a deep dive into the niche world of investment trusts with communications director Annabel Brodie Smith of the Association of Investment Companies (AIC), to discuss the unique features of the oldest investment vehicles in the world. We also hear: in markets, the latest drama to come out of Congress, and which giant company is about to grace Eastern stock markets for the first time, setting a record; and in companies, which supermarkets are cutting costs for Christmas, and how Royal Mail is innovating the way we post - implementing the biggest changes we've seen since 1852.
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In markets, we look to the switch in investor appetite in the US, as well as why going 'ex-dividend' is affecting certain UK stocks; in companies, we hear how cinemas are faring amid waning audience numbers, and the new features video meeting platform Zoom is bringing in to capitalise on a big year for the company; and finish with Steps' interview with Wealthify's head of business development Dan Giddings, as he discusses the 'robo-investor' and what it's trying to do for its clients.
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This week we uncover how President Donald Trump has been causing big price swings across markets globally as the US election draws near; we hear what the chief of Tesco had to say about the company's trading, and look at how EasyJet has fared amid a dismal holiday season for travel; in our interview, we speak to experienced personal finance journalist Faith Archer on some of the crucial features to look at when it comes to selecting funds for your portfolio; and finish with our take on the conversation.
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Welcome to season 2 of the Steps to Investing Podcast - bringing you news, tips and hints to keep you up to date with the markets and brimming with investing ideas.
This week, we take a look at September in the markets and ask why after a relaxing summer break, all fund managers want to do is sell, sell, sell; in companies, we see what pearls of wisdom Nike has to offer in the consumer shift to online, and why Rolls Royce has been turning its hat to shareholders to ask for more money; and in The Big Investment, we look to election chaos in the US and ask what impact this will have on markets globally, and how to invest around it.
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Also out - our NEW, STEPS TO INVESTING GUIDE: giving you tips on preparing for investing and choosing a fund, investment ideas that consider the short-term risks and also long-term opportunities, and deep-dive into the problems with capitalism today and a new model that is emerging to save us.
In markets, we look to the tech stars upsetting US markets, and what European investors are hoping for from Christine Lagarde; in companies, we look to jewellery that lost its lustre, and which company stock market floatation 'Golden Balls' is behind; finishing with The Big Investment, and a look to inflation that threatens on the horizon and how as private investors we might profit from it.
In markets we explore how a press conference of the powerful is leading shares ever higher, and what economic trinkets the French have announced; in companies we look at who's raising money for cybertrucks, and the soaring profits a Danish firm is building, brick by brick; finishing with The Big Investment, and why the switch from investing in growth stocks to value stocks might be savvy over the long term.
In markets, we look at what new monetary policies might excite at the central banker Jackson Hole symposium, and a storm that's blowing through the oil industry; in companies, we find out about an Ant that's about to float on the stock markets, and a Russian mining group that has stolen the FTSE-100 show this year; finishing with The Big Investment and a delve into one of the most ancient of precious metals: gold.
In the pod this week, markets hit new highs, a 2 trillion dollar Apple, and a warning from a discounter. Plus, in The Big Investment, we examine crowdfunding – small investors, smaller businesses, but potential for big wins, and definitely big risks.
Marcus kicks-off with some grisly UK data that leaves Chancellor Sunak with some explaining to do, and what disagreements on Capitol Hill are delaying a vital second round of US stimulus; Simon takes a look at a food app breaking its own records, and a pizza company shining a light on eat out to help out; rounding-off with The Big Investment and the robots that get you from account opening to investing in lightening-quick time.
In markets this week, Marcus looks at which juicy package details investors are eagerly awaiting from Congress, and why the Bank of England thinks our interest rates are best kept as they are; in companies, Simon discusses a grim story that puts disgraced fintech group Wirecard back in the press again, as well as the screws US President Donald Trump is turning on Chinese apps; finishing with The Big Investment and a focus on credit as a potential source of income.
The market soap opera continues this week with a glance at how some dreary data from Europe is overshadowing positive moves from the Fed; in companies we see which Spanish bank has made a historical announcement, and an eCommerce platform that is knocking eBay to one side; finishing with The Big Investment, and a zoom into the world of government bonds and why they can be a ballast for your portfolio. Subscribe to get the latest.
Marcus and Simon explore the reasons behind a dip in markets in the back-end of this week, a ray of hope for Europe, a burrito brand that baulked, a DIY bonanza; and in The Big Investment, private equity and how to access it for your portfolio.
Simon and Marcus take a look at why Chinese stocks have taken a tumble this week, which vaccines have been driving markets, a pizza maker beholden to its creditors, the planes set to remain in the sky; and in The Big Investment we continue our look at alternatives, and some of its weird and wonderful assets. Subscribe to get more from Steps to Investing.
This week Marcus and Simon look at which country is frothing up its stock market, which sector has been boosted by UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak, a tailor that no longer suits, some bumper profits for a German logistics giant; and in The Big Investment, what absolute return fund managers are trying to do for their investors.
Which vaccine is exciting markets, who the Brits are raging at, a company stashing billions of euros behind the sofa, which carmaker has just received a gold medal, and life beyond furlough. In The Big Investment this week we look at a niche of the active funds space: investment trusts.
This week Simon and Marcus take a look at which US states are causing Coronavirus worries, the vaccines the market bulls are looking at, why Facebook is in the news again, and the death of an 84-year old brand; finishing with The Big Investment and a focus on fund management's thunderous incumbent: actively managed portfolios.
In the pod this week, Marcus describes markets as a game of two halves, looking at Covid-19 worries, tense borders, and Bank of England policy decisions; Simon rounds-up company news, with ongoing bank troubles and a slow take-up of pre-heated sausage rolls; finishing with a deep-dive into passive investing and why it could be good for your portfolio in The Big Investment.
In a slightly revamped format, Simon and Marcus take a look at what's driving markets with grim forecasts from the Fed and the OECD, which companies have hit the news with Ocado looking to capitalise further on shifting trends off the back of Covid-19, as well as a more detailed The Big Investment, as we delve into hot investment style ESG investing and how to access it.
A brief look at why one company is breaking the dividend ban, some positive news for the auto industry, what effect investors are still feeling from Woodford Investment Management's implosion, and where globalisation is left in the wake of Covid-19; finishing with The Big Investment and investing in FTSE-100 UK companies.
The car brands in convoy to survive, two investing champs part ways, the tech titans on a shopping spree, a top tip from a leading UK fund manager; rounding-off with The Big Investment and multi-asset investing. Subscribe to get the latest.
Simon and Marcus look at which supermarkets have sorted a little tax problem, what long-suffering M&S is doing about onerous rents, new rules for government bail-outs that could protect firm reputations, a secret fund launch that broadens Lindsell Train's appeal, and a sophisticated scam and how to avoid them; finishing with The Big Investment and why strategic bond funds could be a balancing force in your portfolio right now.
Simon and Marcus discuss which new acronym is ridiculous, a hotel having a tough time, why Elon Musk is picking fights with authorities, and a confident signal from Toyota; ending with The Big Investment and a look at the UK's smaller company sector with three fund picks. Subscribe to get the latest.
A chat through what's happening in the UK's gig economy; the diverging paths of gold and silver; Disney's unhappy irony; what the world's most active dealmaker John Malone has been up to (again); and finishing with a focus on global equity funds.
Simon and Marcus chat through how Next and Dixons Carphone are coping with the impact of Coronavirus; an announcement from Shell that breaks a very long trend; gigantic asset manager BlackRock's growing influence; and focus on value investing with three fund picks in The Big Investment.
Marcus and Simon discuss the specific pressures that pushed the oil market into negative territory, an enterprising restaurant chain, the news in food apps, how exactly consumers are using Netflix during Corona; and we finish with some investment funds that use an investment strategy known as 'quality growth'. Subscribe for the latest, and please share!
Marcus and Simon take to some optimism in this week's show! Which stocks and sectors have avoided a Coronavirus wrong-footing? We find out from Adrian Lowcock of broker Willis Owen. Plus, The Big Investment focuses on the thunderously sized stock market that is the US.
This week, Simon and Marcus take a look at the bleak outlook for UK dividends and comfort themselves with a well-known brand that bucks the trend, they discuss recent announcements from the Bank of England and how they plan to help finance the government, as well as take a quick dive the specialist world of quant hedge funds. Finally they introduce a new section in the show that aims to take a look at a particular area of the market and discuss some fund ideas: this week, Europe.
This week Simon and Marcus take a look at why the tax year end is important, focusing on the Individual Savings Account - the ISA - as well as some hints and tips for tax planning.
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As Simon and Marcus take heed of Coronavirus safety calls and socially distance themselves to record this latest MiniCast, they take a look at businesses striving to help-out with Coronavirus as well as the impact the virus is having on dividends; and Simon forces one eye-open to peak at his pension portfolio and assess the damage.
Simon and Marcus give their take on the news-flow amid a Coronavirus-induced market panic, bringing key stories from markets, economics, companies, and the funds industry; as well as Marcus' Big Interview this week with Job Curtis - an investor the UK's big FTSE-100 firms; followed by Simon's analysis for those looking to invest. Please subscribe for our weekly show, and get in touch if you've any questions.
In the latest of Steps to Investing's 'snackable' finance podcast series - The Steps MiniCast - Simon and Marcus discuss whether the UK's new Chancellor's budget has anything juicy for investors, how the Bank of England is responding to the dreaded 'C'-word, and what Simon is doing with his pension amid slightly chaotic scenes across markets. Every month we release a full interview with an investment professional, and next week it's all about FTSE-100 companies. Check your feed later in the week.
This week we focus on the impact of coronavirus, with Marcus on the latest in markets and a particular company that has been squeezed by the associated drop in demand, as well as Simon on the impact in his SIPP.
This week it's Coronavirus' impact on markets and how Simon is approaching his portfolio, as well as 'Junk Bond King' Michael Milken and what Ikea has changed about its meatballs.
Aiming to give you a flavour of the big stories from across finance. This week: assessing fund manager value, consolidating share dealing platforms, the EC's fight on monopolies, and Bloomberg LP's potential sale.
This week, we have our usual round-up of news from across the industry, including the market's reaction to Coronavirus, why the US jobs report is breaking an economic theory, Tesla's rise to Stardom, and which investment products have been flying off the shelves; plus this episode's Big Interview with Asia-focused fund manager Mike Kerley, and some tips on investing in the region.
This week's run-through the markets with Simon Longfellow and Marcus de Silva takes a look at revolutionary free trading platform Robinhood, the varying performance of different fund structures, the downfall of Credit Suisse's Tidjane Thiam, and Coronavirus' impact on markets.
At Steps to Investing we believe millions of Britons could be getting much juicier rates of returns on their savings if they looked to the markets and started investing. In its first ever podcast, founders Simon Longfellow and Marcus de Silva chat through the big stories affecting markets, their own personal journeys when starting out with investing, and explain a key back-story all investors should be aware of: the Global Financial Crisis.