Solving investor challenges
There are a number of strategies that individual investors can use to take less risk when investing. Diversification is one approach that can help to mitigate the effects of volatility in any one particular asset class.
Diversification is a key principle of sound investing, as it allows investors to spread their risk across a number of different investments. This reduces the likelihood of experiencing heavy losses from any single investment. There are a number of different ways to achieve diversification in an investment portfolio. One way is to invest in a variety of different asset classes.
Main asset classes
There are four main asset classes when investing: cash, fixed income, equities and property. Each has different characteristics which can make them more or less suitable for different investors, depending on their individual circumstances and investment objectives.
Cash is the most basic form of investment and generally offers the lowest returns. Fixed income investments, such as bonds, are typically seen as being less risky than equities but offer lower potential returns. Equities (or stocks) are ownership interests in businesses and offer the potential for higher returns but also come with a higher degree of risk. Property can provide a steady income stream from rental payments but is also subject to market fluctuations.
Growth and value stocks
Investors can spread their money across different asset classes in order to diversify their portfolios and reduce risk. This is because different asset classes tend to perform differently at different times, meaning that an investment in one asset class may offset any losses made on another. Another way to diversify is to invest in a variety of different geographical regions.
When it comes to choosing between growth and value stocks, there is no right or wrong answer. It all depends on the investor’s investment goals and risk tolerance. If investors are willing to take on more risk for the potential of higher returns, then growth stocks may be a good option. But if investors are looking for stability and income, then value stocks may be a better option.
Stability and income
Growth stocks are those that are expected to experience above-average growth in terms of earnings and revenue. These companies are typically young and innovative, with high potential for future growth. They are usually more volatile than other stocks, which means they can be more risky investments.
Value stocks, on the other hand, are those that are considered to be undervalued by the market. These companies may not be growing as quickly as others, but they tend to be more stable and offer investors a chance to earn dividends. Value stocks can be a good choice for investors who are looking for stability and income.
Ways to diversify your investment
You can diversify by:
Asset class – spread your investment across the four main asset types; cash, bonds, property and shares.
Region – invest in the UK and overseas so that you’re not limiting your investment to one country.
Industry – invest across a variety of sectors such as energy, financial services and healthcare, so you’re less exposed to one type of company.
Investment style – create a balance of funds. Investors could choose some companies with good growth opportunities and others that offer value or recovery. This creates a blend of companies with solid but average profits and those with the potential to recover and make stronger profits in the years ahead.
Smoothing market fluctuations
Investors can also use pound-cost averaging to help reduce the effects of market volatility and investment risk. The basic principle is simple. Instead of investing a lump sum all at once, the investor splits the sum into smaller amounts and invests these over a period of time.
This has the effect of smoothing out market fluctuations, as each investment is made at a different price. Over time, this can help to reduce the overall cost of the investment and increase the chances of achieving a positive return. Of course, pound-cost averaging does not guarantee success, but it can be a useful tool for managing risk in volatile markets.
Helping investors reduce the risk
By doing this, investors also have the potential to buy more shares when prices are low and fewer shares when prices are high. As a result, pound-cost averaging can help investors reduce the risk of buying shares at an inflated price.
No matter what method an investor uses to reduce investment risk, it is important to remember that no investment is completely risk-free.
Taking the complexity out of managing your own portfolio
We are committed to delivering the best possible performance for our clients’ long-term success. Our goal is to take the complexity out of managing your own portfolio and provide in-depth advice on making the most of your investments. To find out more, speak to us to discuss your options.
This information has been prepared using all reasonable care. It is not guaranteed as to its accuracy, and it is published solely for information purposes. It is not to be construed as a solicitation or offer to buy or sell securities and does not in any way constitute investment advice.
Information based on our current understanding of taxation legislation and regulations. Any levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are subject to change.
The value of investments and income from them may go down. You may not get back the original amount invested.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.