Helping put your money to work while managing risk
Building an investment portfolio can seem daunting at first, particularly for those taking their first steps into the world of investing. With countless funds, markets and strategies to choose from, it is easy to feel overwhelmed.
However, creating a successful portfolio does not need to be complicated. By focusing on diversification, understanding your risk tolerance and making use of tax-efficient investment wrappers, you can create a portfolio designed to support your long-term financial goals.
Investing is a journey rather than a destination. Whether you are saving for retirement, building wealth for the future or working towards a major life goal, a well-constructed portfolio can help put your money to work while managing risk along the way.
Diversify across different asset classes
One of the most important principles of investing is diversification. History has shown that equities, which represent shares in companies, have delivered some of the strongest long-term returns. However, they
can also be volatile, particularly during periods of market uncertainty.
For investors with a long-term outlook, equities will often form the foundation of a portfolio. However, relying solely on shares can expose investors to unnecessary volatility. The value of investments can fall as well as rise, and investors may receive back less than they originally invested, particularly over shorter timeframes.
Balance risk with defensive investments
Adding other asset classes can help create a more balanced portfolio. Bonds, which are effectively loans to governments or companies, can provide a steadier source of returns through interest payments and help reduce overall portfolio volatility.
Investors approaching retirement or preferring a more cautious approach may wish to allocate a larger share of their portfolio to bonds and other defensive assets. While these investments may not match the long-term growth potential of equities, they can help smooth out market fluctuations and provide greater stability.
Think beyond domestic markets
Many investors make the mistake of concentrating their holdings in a single country or region. While global markets often move in similar directions, different economies, sectors and regions tend to outperform at different times.
A globally diversified portfolio enables investors to capture opportunities wherever they arise. No single country has a monopoly on successful businesses, innovation or economic growth. By spreading investments across major international markets, investors can reduce concentration risk and potentially improve long-term outcomes.
Simple solutions for new investors
For beginners, keeping things simple is often the most effective approach. Trying to build the perfect portfolio can sometimes lead to inaction, causing investors to miss out on valuable years of growth.
Tracker and index funds offer a straightforward way to gain exposure to a broad range of companies at a relatively low cost. Global tracker funds, for example, provide access to thousands of businesses worldwide through a single investment.
Multi-asset funds can offer another convenient solution. These professionally managed portfolios combine equities, bonds and other investments in a single fund, making them an attractive option for those seeking diversification without the complexity of managing multiple holdings.
Use a core-and-satellite approach
As confidence grows, investors may wish to adopt a core-and-satellite strategy. This approach combines a central core of broad, diversified investments with smaller satellite holdings that reflect personal interests, themes or specialist sectors.
A structured approach can help maintain discipline. Core holdings may each account for 10% to 20% of the portfolio, while satellite investments might represent around 5%. Regular portfolio reviews and rebalancing can help ensure that asset allocations remain aligned with long-term objectives.
It is also important to diversify investment styles. Combining growth, value and income-focused funds can create a more balanced portfolio than relying on a single style.
Avoid chasing past performance
Many investors are tempted to invest in funds that have recently delivered exceptional returns. However, past performance is not a reliable guide to future results. Strong performers can quickly fall out of favour, while previously overlooked sectors can emerge as market leaders.
Instead, focus on maintaining an asset allocation that aligns with your personal risk tolerance. Investors comfortable with higher risk may favour greater equity exposure, while those seeking a smoother investment journey may prefer a larger allocation to bonds and other stabilising assets.
Make tax efficiency a priority
Tax planning should be an integral part of every investment strategy. Investment income and capital gains can create tax liabilities over time, eroding overall returns.
An Individual Savings Account (ISA) can help shelter investments from Income and Capital Gains Tax. For retirement savings, pensions remain among the most tax-efficient options. Pension contributions receive tax relief, effectively increasing the amount invested, while workplace pensions often include valuable employer contributions.
Some investors underestimate the long-term impact of tax relief and tax-efficient investing. Over several decades, these advantages can substantially increase the size of a retirement fund and improve future income prospects.