Save and Invest ("Which?" Essential Guides)

Whether we're planning for the future, saving up for a particular event or purchase, or simply trying to expand our capital, we all want to make our money grow. Making the most of our money means knowing and understanding the options. 'Save and Invest' explores every avenue of the complex and occasionally obscure world of financial investments. Beginning with a discussion of the importance of both saving and investing for financial health, the guide introduces interest rates and their implications, the basics of understanding and spreading risk, inflation and protecting your assets, and suggests popular starter investments. The many types of savings accounts are closely analysed, including high street and internet accounts, ISAs and ethical savings, before more complex investment options such as high-income bonds, hedge funds, venture capital trusts and spread betting are explored. Offering a thorough study of all aspects of investment, the handbook covers managing risk, protecting investments from tax, making sense of the stock market, investing in property, choosing a pension, and building a portfolio. Approaching the topic from an individual perspective, with a quiz to determine what kind of investor you are, 'Save and Invest' is an indispensable tool to make your money work for you.