New investment habits set to outlast lockdown
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New investment habits set to outlast lockdown
In the past 18 months, many Britons have saved more money than usual as the closure of the economy reduced spending. Many canny investors have been channelling their savings into increased investment contributions.
New research1 suggests that the majority of UK investors (76%) intend to keep up higher levels of contributions, with half saying they intend to sacrifice everyday spending to continue doing so. On average, post-lockdown investors plan to invest nearly a fifth (19%) more, increasing to 36% more for younger investors. Just 6% plan to reduce their contributions.
While the number of investors has surged during lockdown, many experts assumed that this would reduce as restrictions (and lockdown boredom) were lifted. This has not been the case however, especially as many savings accounts have continued to offer poor returns as interest rates remain low.
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Historically, investments have performed better than cash deposits in the long term. While returns on your investments are never guaranteed, building a diversified portfolio may be a smart move while interest rates remain so low.
1Barclays Smart Investor, 2021
It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice and the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. It does not provide individual tailored investment advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are those currently applying or proposed and are subject to change; their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor. No part of this document may be reproduced in any manner without prior permission.
The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. If you withdraw from an investment in the early years, you may not get back the full amount you invested. Changes in the rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value or price of an investment in sterling terms if it is denominated in a foreign currency.
Information is based on our understanding of taxation legislation and regulations. Any levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are subject to change.
Tax treatment is based on individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the future.
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