Investments. Has anyone experienced the swift approach of investment companies when you request information?

Hi,

It depends on your knowledge and experience. You can invest in shares directly if you know your stuff but for most people, investing in a fund is a safer bet as it spreads your money (and risk) around better and (in theory) the fund provider has access to more information, faster than you do. Personally I don't think IFAs are worth paying (other than for tax advice and creating financial trusts) as they'll have the same info you can get off the web.

On a personal level greydo a few year's ago we took advice from a financial advisor and have deeply regretted ever since. I know that it was very unfortunate that a crash happened not too long after we had purchased our bonds but I didn't expect to lose a vast amount of our retirement fund. Since then when anything comes up for renewal i.e. ASAs or Bonds I do a price comparison and look very carefully into it now that I know a lot more about it before I do anything. Once bitten twice shy as the saying goes. This is my opinion only and you may wish to do it differently.

I wouldn't get involved with an IFA either for share purchase. A lot of companies have plenty of information on their sites, and you can get brokers opinions on them for nothing - have a look at hargreaves lansdown for instance. That said, if you're dealing shares you really do need a good knowledge of the market, and plenty of time to watch share prices. The thing you need most of all is the ability to press the button to sell when prices drop below what you find acceptable. Too many people hang on to shares hoping its just a blip and the price will go up tomorrow, and end up losing even more. Its not easy to make a profit in the current market, but it can still be done. Needless to say, be prepared to lose...............

It is always better to manage one's own investments ONLY IF ONE IS COMPETENT TO DO SO.