So, you would like to start investing or trading, but you've no idea where to begin?
Well, great news. You are in the right place. We’ll aim to give you the confidence to take your investments into your own hands, saving you hundreds of pounds in the process. The best news? You’re already here, and motivated to start. So let’s get to it.
We've got 4 simple steps for you to follow
Read on and we’ll take you through each step
Discover the markets
The financial markets fall into five areas, Stocks and Shares, Indices, Currencies, Commodities and Property. Whether you decide on a long term diversified investing plan in an ISA or SIPP or a short term trading strategy, the underlying markets you have access to will remain the same.
Some markets, like Indices and Stocks and Shares lend themselves to longer term strategies where growth and dividends may offer substantial returns over a period of 5 years or more while other markets like Commodities and Currencies offer greater volatility and opportunities for intra-day or weekly trading.
Find your product
UK investors have a choice of products to gain access to their chosen markets. The product(s) you choose will depend on the markets you are interested in and your attitude to risk.
As a first port of call, many investors choose an Stocks and Shares ISA or SIPP through a Stockbroker where they can choose from a range of Stocks and Shares, Exchange Traded Funds and Managed Funds.
For those interested in short term strategies, a Spread Betting, Contracts for Difference or Forex account will provide access to many of the same markets but with stakes magnified to enable larger profits (or losses) to be generated over a short period of time.
Choose your broker
Choosing the right broker is an essential part of any successful investment strategy. Having the right tools available to research and analyse your decisions is an important component.
Your broker will need to provide access to the markets you wish to trade. Fees should be competitive and not erode any profits unnecessarily. If you would like access to your investments on the move, is there an iOS or Android app for you to download?
Most importantly, your broker should be authorised and regulated by an internationally renowned regulatory body. This will ensure that your money is secure and your broker is maintaining high standards in its operations.
Take a trading course
With our free online trading courses learn the markets, products and techniques to help you define and reach your trading goals.
These accredited courses can fulfil CFA and GARP continuing education requirements. Every course can be self-reported in your CFA online CE tracker and select classes can be used for GARP credits.
