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- Investments explained
Whether you view your money as nothing more than the means to an end or the ultimate security blanket, one thing's for sure, you need to look after it.
The value of investments can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invest. The value of investments can fall as well as rise and you could get back less than you invest. If you're not sure about investing, seek independent advice.
Cash is a low-risk investment. A bank repays it on demand in most cases and even pays you interest.
When you invest in a bond, you're effectively lending money to the provider. Your money is at risk because there's a chance that the issuer won't be able to make repayments. Bonds tend to pay a fixed interest rate, although some returns are linked to a benchmark such as an index.
The returns are potentially higher but you'll need to deposit your money over a longer period. And, if you sell a bond before it matures, you might get back less than you paid for it. If the bond issuer can't repay you, you can lose all the money you put in.
Corporate and UK Government Bonds
On the investment risk scale, bonds – sometimes referred to as fixed-income investments – typically sit between cash and shares. Bonds however, come in a variety of guises. We look at what you need to know.
Investments explained
You can choose from thousands of investments to build a portfolio to match your needs, and with our expert insight, tools, tips and more, we can help guide you on your investment journey, although we can’t advise you on investments that might be suitable for you.
Exploring investments on Smart Investor
You have the choice of thousands of investments to help you achieve your financial goals. Once you’ve opened one of our accounts, we offer you various ways to explore and find the right investments for you.
Ways to invest
Always remember that investments can fall in value. You may get back less than you invest.
Ready-made Investments
A straight-forward way to invest
Smart Investor
To choose and manage your own investments from a range of funds, shares, ETFs and bonds, get started today by simply opening up an investment (stocks and shares) ISA, investment account or SIPP account with Smart Investor.
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If you have any questions, you can give us a call on 0800 279 36671.
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