Investment basics

Although they may seem monolithic and indestructible, history has taught us that even the largest financial institutions are vulnerable to collapse.

Whether it's an inheritance, a redundancy payment or even a lottery win, receiving a windfall can transform your financial circumstances.

Put simply, bull markets are sustained periods of market growth and bear runs are sustained periods of losses. Remember, bears attack by swiping 'down', while bulls throw their horns 'up'.

With the Financial Services Authority no more and a new regulator installed in its place, we explain the basics of the industry organisations you need to know about. 

Financial Conduct Authority

A dozen or more years ago, I would occasionally be invited onto a financial television channel and, if my fellow guests ever paused for breath from raving about the latest 'must-own' stock, I would be asked how viewers might be

No one likes to think about the worst-case scenario, let alone pay out for it.