Investments: a beginner's guide

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An investment is an asset or item you purchase to generate a profitable return. Investing can be a great way to grow your wealth over time but it’s important to understand the risks that come with starting an investment portfolio. On this page, we’ll guide you through the basics of investing and explain how the stock market works. You’ll also learn about the different types of investments and discover the best ways to invest different sums of cash.

The rundown
  • Investment definition: An investment is an asset or item purchased for the sole purpose of making a profit
  • Investment types: Some of the most common forms of investment include shares, different types of funds, bonds, cash and property
  • Risks: Investing in the stock market comes with significant risk, although diversifying your portfolio can help mitigate some of these risks
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) explained
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) explained

On this page, you’ll learn what ETFs are, how they work and the different types of ETFs available.

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What are stocks?
What are stocks?

Owning stocks can offer a lot of benefits, including earning potentially big profits. Find out what stocks are, their different types and how they differ from bonds, and decide if investing in stocks is right for you.

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Investing in bonds explained
Investing in bonds explained

In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about investing in bonds, including both government and corporate bonds, and how they can earn you money.

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Index funds explained
Index funds explained

On this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know about index funds, how they work and some pros and cons to help you decide if this investment strategy might be right for you.

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Trust funds: everything you need to know
Trust funds: everything you need to know

On this page, you’ll learn how trust funds work, the different types and why you may want to consider setting up a trust fund.

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How to invest in REITs in the UK
How to invest in REITs in the UK

In this guide, find out what real estate investment trusts are, how to invest in REITs in the UK and the benefits and risks of this type of investment.

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What is the best way to invest money?
What is the best way to invest money?

Invest your money wisely by discovering the best saving and investment options for your financial goals.

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An introduction to stocks and shares

Investing in the stock market can seem like a daunting prospect, especially if you’re not familiar with how it works or common investment jargon. While buying shares in a company has the potential to deliver lucrative returns, it does have its risks

It’s also worth remembering that stocks and shares are generally viewed as long-term investments, especially if you want to maximise your chances of success. The following guides explain how the stock market works to help you get started on your investment journey.

How to invest in shares
How to invest in shares

On this page, you’ll learn how to buy shares and understand the risks and benefits you may encounter in the process.

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How does the stock market work?
How does the stock market work?

On this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from the definition of the stock market to how it works and the pros and cons of investing.

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Investing in the stock market for beginners
Investing in the stock market for beginners

Taking your first step into investing can seem difficult, and can feel quite intimidating. Read our guide to find out how to get started with investing in the stock market, as well as the risks and returns it can bring.

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Different types of investments explained

As an investor, you have plenty of choice when it comes to deciding where to put your money. Some of the most common types of investments are stocks, bonds, funds, cash and property. Each one has its pros and cons so it’s important to weigh up the different types carefully before committing your money. These handy guides explore some of the options that may be available to you.

Hedge funds explained
Hedge funds explained

On this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know about hedge funds, their key characteristics, how they’re taxed and what you may need to consider when choosing a hedge fund.

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Investment trusts explained
Investment trusts explained

On this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know about investment trusts, so you have all the information you need to decide if this is the right type of investment for you.

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What are green bonds?
What are green bonds?

In this guide, we explore what green savings bonds are, how they work, pros and cons, and look at how they contribute to climate action.

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Investing in property: a guide
Investing in property: a guide

A property investment is one of the most common ways to invest in the UK. In this guide, we look at the different types of property investments, why investing in property might be a good option for you, how to do it and what the risks might be.

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Mutual funds: everything you need to know
Mutual funds: everything you need to know

Mutual funds are amongst the most popular types of investment, with both beginners and experienced investors using them. Find out everything you need to know about mutual funds, including how they work and what the risks, pros and cons are, so you can decide if this type of fund is the right investment option for you.

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Investment trusts explained
Investment trusts explained

On this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know about investment trusts, so you have all the information you need to decide if this is the right type of investment for you.

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Equity funds and investments

Equity is a term often found on a company’s balance sheet, but it’s also a common term used amongst investors and in accounting, as well as in personal finances. The following guides explain what equity is, as well as how equity funds and equity investments work.

Equity: everything you need to know
Equity: everything you need to know

On this page, you’ll find out more about what equity is, why it’s important to understand it and what the different forms of equity are.

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Equity funds explained
Equity funds explained

An equity fund is a type of mutual fund that invests specifically in stocks. Read our guide to find out how equity funds work, and decide if it could be the right type of investment for you.

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Equity investments explained
Equity investments explained

Equity investments are an option to consider if you want to diversify your portfolio or are thinking about investing in the stock market. Find out what equity investments are, the different types and why you may want to consider equities.

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Equity crowdfunding explained
Equity crowdfunding explained

In this guide, you’ll find out what equity crowdfunding is, how it works and the different types of crowdfunding, as well as the benefits and risks to investors.

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The best ways to invest different sums of money

If you’ve recently inherited a lump sum of money or your savings have accumulated over time, you might be wondering how best to invest your cash. Whether it’s £10k or £100k, it’s important to weigh up your options so you get the best return on your investment. Read the following guides for some practical tips and advice.

The best way to invest £10k
The best way to invest £10k

If you’ve come into some money or you’ve been saving and you have £10k to invest, you can maximise your money by investing it. In this guide we explore what to do with £10k, where to invest £10k and provide tips for investing.

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The best way to invest £50k
The best way to invest £50k

If you’re wondering what to do with £50k (and you’re not going to spend it), the answer is simple: you can choose to either save or invest it. This article explores how to invest £50k, and the best and safest places to put your money.

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What’s the best way to invest £100k?
What’s the best way to invest £100k?

Even when interest rates are low, you can still earn money on your savings and there are plenty of places to invest £100,000. This article explores how to invest £100k, and the best and safest places to put your money.

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