
Getting started with investing can be confusing. There is a lot of financial information out there, but much of it assumes so much prior knowledge, or is couched in jargon so obscure, that it soon becomes meaningless.
MoneyWeek can help you understand the basics of investing, by presenting clear information in simple terms. On these pages, we'll introduce you to the essential concepts of investing, giving you the confidence to get started on the road to financial freedom.
Two things to do before you put a penny in the stock market
It’s important to get your house in order before you start buying shares. Here’s how to lay the foundations for successful investing.
By: John Stepek
What are the main asset classes?
A look at the main asset classes available to UK investors. Most portfolios contain a mix of these in some proportion.
How to achieve your financial goals
If you’re investing for a comfortable retirement, then you’ve got to beat inflation. And there’s really only one way to do that – here’s how.
By: John Stepek
Isa basics: what you need to know
All you need to know about how Isas work, including how much you can pay in, what you can hold, and how to transfer an Isa.
Getting to grips with commodities
Investors looking to diversify their portfolios should turn to commodities, having got to grips with shares and bonds, says Merryn Somerset Webb.
How to construct a portfolio
How do you go about putting all of your assets together? Matthew Partridge explains the art of portfolio construction.
All you need to know about bonds
In the latest of our beginner’s guides to investing, Merryn Somerset Webb explains the basics of bonds.
The best books on investing for beginners
Four of the best books on passive investing, from a very simple introduction to an in-depth analysis.
Just what is a fund anyway?
There are two main types of fund out there for investors to invest in. Merryn Somerset Webb explains how they work, and which is her favourite.
A beginner's guide to investing in gold
Gold is the ultimate insurance policy – an essential part of your portfolio. Here’s how to invest in it.
The best way to invest in property
There is an easier, cheaper, and less risky way of investing property than buying to let – real estate investment trusts, or Reits. Here’s what a Reit is, and what to look out for when buying one.
By: Phil Oakley
Portfolio building: How to go it alone and do it yourself
So you’ve decided to take charge of your own money. But before you invest a penny, you need to think about how you are going to put together your investment portfolio.
How much debt does it take to sink a company?
Taking on debt can give companies several advantages. But too much debt can be disastrous. So what is the tipping point, and what should investors watch out for? Tim Bennett explains.
By: Tim Bennett
How many shares should you have in your portfolio?
The more shares you have in your portfolio, the less damage any single disastrous investment will do to your wealth. But how many is too many? Matthew Partridge explains.
How do you know when a market is cheap?
The way to make money from investing is to buy when markets are cheap and sell when they’re expensive. Here, John Stepek explains one simple way to tell when that is.
By: John Stepek
How to pick a good investment trust
Unlike most actively managed funds, investment trusts often beat the wider market. Here, Phil Okaley explains what they are, and how you can find the right investment trust for you.
By: Phil Oakley
Two unusual sources of investment income
Where can you go for higher rates of income on your savings? Phil Oakley looks at two possible alternatives – ‘prefs’ and ‘pibs’ – and outlines their advantages and pitfalls.
By: Phil Oakley
What you should know about corporate bonds
Demand for corporate bonds has soared among private investors lately. But what are they, how do they work, and what should you look out for? Phil Oakley explains.
By: Phil Oakley
Looking for a great investment? Then follow the cash
The most important measure of how a company is doing is not necessarily profit. What ultimately matters, says Phil Oakley, is cash. Here, he explains why.
By: Phil Oakley

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