How did your portfolio fare in 2013? Did you get in early and benefit from rallies in both the Japanese and American stock markets? Or did you back a bunk and align your cash with gold and mining stocks? Investors are always on the look-out for that next big thing – it is no good buying at the top as stock markets are just as answerable to the laws of gravity as we are.
While it is impossible to say with total certainty which asset classes – and more specifically which sectors, stocks and bonds – will outperform their peers in the coming months, investors can make an educated guess based on valuations, government and central bank policies and even the weather.
This week, we consult the experts; our own stock and fund analyst, fund managers, economists and financial advisers, to bring you the complete guide to investing in 2014.
Happy New Year!
Monday: Economic Outlooks
How will the global economies fare in the coming 12 months?
Our Economic Outlook for 2014
The consensus view on the global economy is increasingly optimistic, while inflation is set to rise but interest rates look steady for some time to come
UK Economy to Pick Up in 2014
Venture Capital Trust (VCT) managers say the economic outlook for the year ahead is positive - good news for small, unlisted companies
Our Outlook for the US Economy in 2014
Those expecting the United States to return to 3%-4% GDP growth could be waiting for a very long time indeed
Global Growth to Hit 4.5% in 2014
City stalwart Robin Geffen predicts global growth of 4.5% next year, buoyed by Japan, the US and a recovery in Europe
Chinese Economy to Slow in 2014
The Eastern super power will see its economic growth slow this year thanks to structural reforms - but it will still outpace Western economies
Tuesday: Stock Selection
Which companies should you be backing for healthy profits this year?
Stock Markets Outlook for 2014
While it may be difficult to repeat the excellent returns recorded so far this year, global equity markets are predicted to deliver at least double-digit returns in 2014
US Stock Market Outlook
With past financial bubbles still fresh in investors’ minds, there is more than a little anxiety that the S&P 500 has gotten ahead of itself
UK Stocks Cheaper than Spanish Companies
Mid-sized British companies are cheaper than those listed in the most beleaguered of European countries - including Italy and Spain
Where Next for the FTSE?
What should investors in the UK stock market expect this year? Will the index rise further - and will stocks increase their dividend payments?
5 Income Stock Picks for 2014
Where are the Gold Rated equity income fund managers investing in 2014? We take a look at their largest holdings and reveal whether those stocks are fairly valued
5 Undervalued US Stocks
Stock pick like a professional by only investing in stocks trading at less than their fair value. Warren Buffett uses value investing to manage his own portfolio
Top Global Equity Investment Trusts
Want to leave stock selection to the experts this year? These are the top rated trusts that invest in companies from across the world, bringing you global diversification
Wednesday: Bonds and Cash
Will interest rates rise in 2014? If so, which fixed interest investments should you consider?
2014: Do Not Ignore Bonds
The bond market rally may be over, but bonds play an important part in a diversified portfolio, offering investors a hedge against equity markets
Fixed Income Markets Outlook for 2014
Unless thoughts of Armageddon return, the bond bull market is likely over
Bond Funds due a Bounce Back
These bond funds are highly rated by analysts but have not performed well over the last year - could 2014 be the year they return to form?
Which Bonds Offer Value in 2014?
Is this the year to buy retail bonds or emerging market debt? We examine the options facing investors looking for fixed interest exposure
What Next for Emerging Market Debt?
Ask the Expert: For the first time in five years, emerging market debt lost cash in 2013. Does this mean a buying opportunity or has the asset got further to fall?
Thursday: Alternative Assets
Will gold bounce back this year, or is it time to consider other commodities?
Commodities Outlook for 2014
Commodities are unlikely to find any friends in 2014, with the exception of the ever-resilient gold 'bugs'
Is it Time to Sell Gold?
The gold price plummeted last year - and along with it funds invested in mining share and other precious metals. Is it time to give up on gold?
Soft Commodities: Cocoa, Cotton and Corn
Can agriculture and other soft commodities provide investors with opportunities for growth this year?
Sector in Focus: Energy Stocks
What does this year hold for Britain's energy giants? We examine the investment prospects of Shell, BP, BG, Tullow Oil and Petrofac
Commercial Property 2014 Outlook
With interest rates still at record lows, and tapering in the US set to begin this month, should income seekers consider alternative sources of yield
Which ETFs Will Deliver in 2014?
Ask the Expert: Over the past 12 months European markets outperformed the US - but where should ETF investors' money be over the next year?
Friday: New Year’s Resolutions
It’s time to get your financial house in order
Fund Managers' 2014 Resolutions
Ever wondered how savvy the experts are with their own money? Here we reveal the New Year's financial resolutions of top fund managers and financial advisers
5 Funds to Consider in 2014
Japan, emerging markets, underperforming strategies - here are five funds and investment trusts that are poised to do well this year
Undervalued Retail Stocks
Canny investors who can spot the winners have the chance to snap up shares in the better performing retailers at a lower price
5 Steps to Kickstart Your Portfolio in 2014
Now is the time to troubleshoot portfolio problems to be sure of improving your bottom line in 2014
2014 Financial Planning Calendar
Use this print-and-save calendar to tackle one financial task at a time
Find the Right Stock/Bond Mix
Asset allocation is the biggest determinant of how your portfolio behaves
3 Second-Chance Funds for 2014
These three fund managers lost investors’ money in 2013 - but with a good long-term track record and adapted strategy investors should not write them off