Beginners' guide to Investments

Am I intending to invest a lump sum, or make regular monthly or annual payments into an investment?

Am I investing for my retirement, for a particular event, or just to build up a lump sum?

Before I start on other investments, do I have enough rainy day emergency money put away if disaster was to strike?

How long do I want to invest for?

Do I need easy access to my investment?

How old am I and how long does the investment have to run?

How much of a risk am I willing to take with my money? A little, a lot, or somewhere in between?

Do I need an income from my investment, or do I just want the capital to grow in value?

What other investments do I currently hold?

How much can I afford to invest? Use our Personal Budget Calculator to work out how much you have spare to invest each month.