The Individual Savings Account (ISA) celebrates its 20th birthday this year. Is it many happy returns for savers and investors, or is the ISA regime now so complex it needs a complete overhaul? Brexit uncertainty is certainly leading investors to pull billions from funds, according to the latest research. But the Morningstar view is that people should always look to the long term to achieve their goals, whether that is a comfortable retirement, their first home or paying for education. An ISA is one of the most mainstream products to achieve these goals, but it is not an end in itself.
On Monday we start with the basics: what is an ISA, how much can you put in it, what products you can use, what does “tax-free” actually mean? We break down the various rules of certain products, such as the Lifetime ISA, which isn’t available to those 40 and over.
On Tuesday we ask experts where they think potential investors should put their money.
Wednesday’s spring statement is unlikely to offer any new personal finance news, but it is a good opportunity to look at how the Government incentivises saving, and what it could do differently. Some financial advisers believe the current system is too complex and that the Lifetime ISA is vulnerable to being scrapped. What would they like to see happen in the future?
The overall limit is relatively generous, but saving £20,000 a year is a daunting prospect for most people. On Thursday, we look at innovative ways companies are encouraging people who wouldn’t think of themselves as “investors” to save for their future.
On Friday we widen the net to look at other ways investors can save tax. We look at the Innovative Finance ISA, charitable giving, inheritance tax and investing in EIS and VCT schemes.
Whether you decide to invest or save this year or next, there’s no escaping the end of the tax year on April 5.
Monday - Back to Basics
Confused by the range of products, the jargon or the terms and conditions? New investors, or those in need of a refresher, can start here
ISAs - Frequently Asked Questions
Best Cash ISAs and Savings Accounts
What's the Best Way to Save for Children?
Tuesday - What the Experts Say
Stocks picks for your ISA, and other suggestions from the experts
ISA and Pension Tips From the Experts
Why Self-Discipline is Key to Investing
Wednesday - Brexit, Savings and the Spring Statement
Hammond Promises Brexit Dividend
Spring Statement Overshadowed by Brexit Votes
Investor Views: My ISAs Mix Funds and Stocks
Thursday - The ISA at 20
The ISA has come a long way in 20 years and technology has transformed the way people, especially the young, save and invest
After 20 Years of the ISA, What Has Changed?
Investor Horizons Expand as Tech Frees Up the ISA
How to Boost Your ISA - Without Really Trying
Friday - Beyond the ISA
Innovative Finance ISAs, charitable giving, inheritance tax and investing in EIS and VCT schemes.
Investors Turn to P2P Lending to Boost Returns
How Investing in Small Companies Brings Tax Benefits