Shows
Many Happy ReturnsThe Physics of Financial MarketsDo the hard laws of thermodynamics apply to your money? What can avalanches, boiling water, and quantum mechanics teach us about markets? We explore where physics meets finance—and what it reveals about volatility, crashes and portfolio decay. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What should you study if you want to work in finance? --- Today’s podcast is sponsored by Freetrade, the commission-free investing platform. New Freetrade offers: 2% cashback when you transfer £10,000+ in pensions (ends 31 Dec 2025) 1% cashback for new ISA customers transferring £10,000+ (ends 31 Dec 2025) Plus, get...
2025-11-2639 minMany Happy ReturnsHow to Pick Your Perfect Portfolio, with Tyler from Portfolio ChartsDesigning an investment portfolio that matches your goals is hard. Sticking with it through thick and thin is even harder. Today, we’re delighted to be joined by the creator of Portfolio Charts to consider risk, return, drawdowns and—crucially—your own behaviour, so you can find something that truly fits you. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Does rebalancing improve returns? --- Today’s podcast is sponsored by Freetrade, the commission-free investing platform. New Freetrade offers: 2% cashback when you transfer £10,000+ in pensions (ends 31 Dec 2025) 1% cashback for new ISA custo...
2025-11-1954 minMany Happy ReturnsFIRE Drill: Is Financial Independence Still Possible?You've done the maths. You've cut the lattes. You've maxed the ISA. And you're still decades away from financial freedom. So how are some people retiring in their 30s and 40s while the rest of us are stuck on the hamster wheel? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: How much will I spend in retirement? --- Today’s podcast is sponsored by Freetrade, the commission-free investing platform. New Freetrade offers: 2% cashback when you transfer £10,000+ in pensions (ends 31 Dec 2025) 1% cashback for new ISA customers transferring £10,000+ (ends 31 Dec 2025) Plus, g...
2025-11-1252 minMany Happy ReturnsSo You’ve Decided to Time the Market…You already know you’re not supposed to time the market… and yet here you are, hovering over the “sell” button because everyone’s yelling about a bubble. So where’s the line between reckless market timing and sensible risk management? We discuss the least destructive ways to panic. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What’s the difference between a crash, a correction, and a bear market? --- Today’s podcast is sponsored by Freetrade, the commission-free investing platform. New Freetrade offers: 2% cashback when you transfer £10,000+ in pensions (ends 31...
2025-11-0545 minMany Happy ReturnsCash on the Sidelines: Are Brits Scared to Invest?Brits poured more than £100 billion into ISAs last year — yet two-thirds is just sitting in cash. Are we simply risk-averse or are there structural problems discouraging us from investing? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Does cash have zero volatility? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and get up to $115 worth of a US fractional share of your choice! Claim your reward when you use this link: lightyear.com/pensioncraft or enter the code PENSIONCRAFT manually in the Prom...
2025-09-2536 minMany Happy ReturnsGold is a Terrible Investment (And Why You Should Own It)Gold is a terrible investment. No earnings, no dividends, and long stretches where you trail stocks and bonds. So why do serious investors still own it? We dig into the myths, the maths, and how an asset with no cash flows can earn its keep in your portfolio. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: If I own a gold fund, can I actually get my hands on the bullion? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and get up...
2025-09-1740 minMany Happy ReturnsStick or Twist: Should You Second Guess the Autumn Budget?Speculation is swirling about what tax changes the chancellor might unveil in the Autumn Budget. But with the announcement still more than two months away, is it worth paying attention to the rumours? We dig into the policy measures making headlines, and ask: what—if anything—should you be doing now? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and get up to $115 worth of a US fractional share of your choice! Claim your reward when you use this link: lightyear.com/pensio...
2025-09-1042 minMany Happy ReturnsStocks vs. Bonds: Who Wins the Next Decade?Stocks are expensive, bonds are finally interesting, and suddenly the boring part of your portfolio doesn’t look so boring. With serious forecasters whispering that bonds could beat equities over the next decade, is it time to rethink your portfolio? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Will zero interest rates ever return? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and get up to $115 worth of a US fractional share of your choice! Claim your reward when you use this...
2025-09-0339 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Everything Bubble: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?The S&P 500 is pushing dot-com era valuations. Bitcoin’s smashing records. Meme stocks have risen from the dead. And AI start-ups are landing billion-dollar buy-outs. What do you do when a bubble is staring you right in the face? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is a gamma squeeze? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use platform where you can access savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies — all in one place. What's more, for a li...
2025-07-3039 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Unicorn Farm: Betting on AI StartupsGlobal venture capital firms poured $126 billion into early-stage startups in the first quarter — and almost 60% went into AI companies. We look at where the so-called smart money is placing their bets. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is a unicorn? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use platform where you can access savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies — all in one place. What's more, for a limited time only, you can receive a £100 bonus when you...
2025-07-2347 minMany Happy ReturnsWhy Can't I Retire Early?!The dream of an early retirement is a powerful motivator for many investors. But often it remains just that: a dream. So what’s holding people back? Is it simply a matter of money? Or are there deeper, psychological reasons why people decide to keep working? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Is the state pension like a bond? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use platform where you can access savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies — all in...
2025-07-1643 minMany Happy ReturnsIs the UK Stock Market Dying?The UK stock market is shrinking. Since 2007, the number of listed companies has fallen by 45%, and those that remain trade at stubbornly low valuations compared to global peers. What’s driving the decline? And can it be stopped? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is the new PISCES private stock market? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use platform where you can access savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies — all in one place. What's more, fo...
2025-07-0940 minMany Happy ReturnsNeural Net Worth: What If AI Isn’t a Bubble?AI stocks are soaring. Valuations are stretched and capital spending is off the charts. To many, it smells like a bubble. But what if it’s not? What happens to markets if AI actually lives up to the hype? How could it reshape business models, transform economic growth, and change the way we invest? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Will index funds still work if the most successful companies stay private? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy...
2025-07-0257 minMany Happy ReturnsFragile Ceasefire: Are Markets Complacent?President Trump announced a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Iran. Markets reacted swiftly: stocks rallied, oil plunged, the dollar and gold slipped. But as investors shrug off geopolitical tensions, are they underestimating the risks? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Can you buy oil? --- Thank you to Trading 212 for sponsoring this episode. Claim free fractional shares worth up to £100. Just create and verify a Trading 212 Invest or Stocks ISA account, make a minimum deposit of £1, and use the promo code "RAMIN" within 10 days of signing up, or us...
2025-06-2525 minMany Happy ReturnsCrash Course: The Scariest Days in Stock Market HistoryStock markets tend to go up over time — but every so often, they fall off a cliff. Some crashes are brief and recover quickly, while others shake the financial world to its core. But what can we learn from the scariest days in stock market history? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is a circuit breaker? --- Thank you to Trading 212 for sponsoring this episode. Claim free fractional shares worth up to £100. Just create and verify a Trading 212 Invest or Stocks ISA account, make a minimum deposit of £1, and...
2025-06-1846 minMany Happy ReturnsOutsmarting the Index: Strategies That (Sometimes) Work for Active FundsBeating the benchmark is the holy grail of active management — but it’s notoriously difficult and rare. Still, against the odds, a handful of portfolio managers do outperform the index, even if only fleetingly. We explore the tactics funds use to gain an edge. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is the ‘Information Ratio’? --- Thank you to Trading 212 for sponsoring this episode. Claim free fractional shares worth up to £100. Just create and verify a Trading 212 Invest or Stocks ISA account, make a minimum deposit of £1, and use the promo cod...
2025-06-1145 minMany Happy ReturnsISAs Under Review: Will Cash Savings Get Capped?Big changes could be coming to ISAs — the tax-free savings wrapper used by 22 million Brits. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is preparing a major review of the ISA market, aiming to nudge savers away from cash and into stocks and shares. Could we soon see a cap on cash ISAs? And if so, how might that reshape the way millions of us save and invest? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is the ‘cost of capital’? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free...
2025-05-2843 minMany Happy ReturnsKnow Thyself: How Risk-Tolerant Are You Really?We all like to think we can handle a little risk – until the market drops 20% and we’re refreshing our portfolio every ten minutes. Understanding your true risk tolerance is one of the most important – and most overlooked – parts of building an investment plan. But what exactly is risk tolerance? Can it be measured? And how should it shape the way you invest? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Should I wait until I've educated myself fully before investing? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK i...
2025-05-2137 minMany Happy ReturnsWhen the Free Lunch Bites Back: Navigating Changing Asset CorrelationsDiversification is famously the only free lunch in investing. But when asset correlations shift, that meal might come with an unexpected bill. Economic cycles, inflation surprises, and market crises can all rewrite the rules when you least expect it. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Can adding an asset with negative expected returns ever be good for your portfolio? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use platform where you can access savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies — all i...
2025-05-1444 minMany Happy ReturnsBuffett Bows Out: Can Berkshire Thrive Without Him?After six decades at the helm, Warren Buffett has announced he’ll step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway later this year. But as the Oracle of Omaha prepares to hand over the reins, can Berkshire thrive without him? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why aren't there more investors like Warren Buffett? --- Thanks to Raisin UK for supporting this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use platform where you can access savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies — all in one place. What's...
2025-05-0738 minMany Happy ReturnsQuid’s In: How Much Can You Invest Tax-Free?The UK tax year is about to end, and most people know about ISAs and pensions. But how much could you really invest tax-free if you made full use of every allowance? From Junior ISAs and SIPPs to dividend and capital gains allowances, we crunch the numbers to find out how much a typical family can shield from the taxman. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What would the ISA allowance be today if it had kept pace with inflation? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this ep...
2025-03-2636 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Hidden Bull Market: The Stocks Defying the GloomThe S&P 500 entered a correction last week, dragged down by Big Tech. But not all sectors are struggling. From booming defence manufacturers to resilient miners and banks—some corners of the market are defying the gloom. We look at which countries, industries and themes are thriving in 2025. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Are market corrections healthy? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and receive $10 worth of a US fractional share when you use this link: https...
2025-03-1940 minMany Happy ReturnsNew World Disorder: Investing Amid the ChaosThe world order is being shaken to its core. Old alliances are fracturing, trade wars are escalating, the US economy is faltering, and Europe is rapidly rearming. With markets in turmoil, how can we invest amid unprecedented uncertainty? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is the ‘Mar-a-Lago accord’? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and receive $10 worth of a US fractional share when you use this link: https://lightyear.com/pensioncraft or enter our special code PENSIONCR...
2025-03-1246 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Road to Wealth: 10 Financial Milestones Worth CelebratingGrowing your wealth is a marathon, not a sprint. But it’s important to celebrate milestones you reach along the way. Let’s raise a glass to shedding debt, investing wisely, and securing your financial future. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Is all debt bad? --- Thank you to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for a new account on Lightyear and receive $10 worth of a US fractional share when you use this link: https://lightyear.com/pensioncraft or enter our special code PENSIONCRAFT manually in the Pro...
2025-03-0538 minMany Happy ReturnsTrump, Tariffs and AI: The Stories Shaping Markets in 2025Markets are unruly beasts, swayed by shifting narratives, sudden rumours, and ever-changing expectations. But a handful of all-important stories will shape investor returns throughout 2025. From interest rates to trade policy to AI, we explore what’s capturing the market’s attention — and why it matters. And in the Dumb Question of the Week: Can bad news be good news? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies. Simply register, a...
2025-01-2943 minMany Happy ReturnsMeltdown: Scandal, Sleaze and the Collapse of Credit Suisse, with Duncan MavinCredit Suisse’s collapse shook the global financial system, forcing regulators into a frantic search for solutions. We're joined by Duncan Mavin, author of the new book ‘Meltdown: Scandal, Sleaze and the Collapse of Credit Suisse’ to discuss the downfall of a banking giant. And in the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: How do you stop a bank run? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societi...
2025-01-2244 minMany Happy ReturnsSoaring Gilt Yields and Strained Public Finances, with Simon FrenchGilt yields are surging, straining government finances and raising fears of tax rises or spending cuts. But is this a UK-specific problem? And will the Bank of England be forced to respond? We're joined by Simon French, Chief Economist and Head of Research at investment bank Panmure Liberum. Simon writes on economics for The Times and previously worked in senior government roles at the UK cabinet office. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Why does the government need fiscal rules? --- Thank you to Raisin UK fo...
2025-01-1545 minMany Happy ReturnsRed Flags: China’s Economic Troubles, with George MagnusSince the sweeping reforms of the 1980s, China's rapid industrialisation and extraordinary growth have transformed it into a true global power. But the engine of China's economic miracle is starting to sputter. Sluggish demand, mounting debt, and unfavourable demographics suggest trouble ahead. We're joined by George Magnus, a leading China expert who has written extensively on the risks facing the world's second-largest economy.And in the Dumb Question of the Week: Can we trust China’s economic statistics? ---Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK...
2025-01-0842 minMany Happy ReturnsStoic Investing: Are We Worrying About the Wrong Things?Sensationalist headlines often lead to poor investment decisions, causing many investors to fixate on issues that have little impact on long-term returns. So, where should investors really focus their attention? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Should you invest if you’re very nervous? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies. Simply register, apply to open as many accounts as you like, and manage everything with a sin...
2024-11-2737 minMany Happy ReturnsTrump 2.0: Political Risk and Complacent Markets, with Economist Larry HathewayPolitical risk is one of the most unquantifiable aspects of investing — and one of the most consequential. Shifts in regulation, tax and trade policies can shake economies and upend asset prices. Our guest today is economist Larry Hatheway, who argues that markets vastly underestimate the dangers of a second Trump presidency. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Are trade deficits a problem? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from...
2024-11-2046 minMany Happy ReturnsMaxed Out Markets: Investing When Everything Is ExpensiveHow should you invest when everything is expensive? Stock market valuations are stretched, gold is up 40% on a year ago, and bitcoin has hit an all-time high. With some analysts forecasting a ‘lost decade’ for US stocks, is it time to look elsewhere? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why is Warren Buffett holding so much cash? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies. Simply...
2024-11-1340 minMany Happy ReturnsGilt Yields and Ghosts of Budgets Past: Who's Afraid of Bond Vigilantes?Gilt yields rose after the Autumn budget as markets absorbed sharp rises in investment, taxes and borrowing. Does Liz Truss’s mini-budget still haunt UK debt markets? And is there a risk that investors will shun UK debt? In today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Does public investment ‘crowd out’ or ‘crowd in’ private sector activity? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies. Simply register, apply to open as many acco...
2024-11-0639 minMany Happy ReturnsProductivity Crisis: Is Europe A Basket Case?Europe has suffered relative decline in recent decades, beset by sluggish economic growth, ageing populations, and stagnant wages. Meanwhile, the success of US Big Tech firms has seen America come to dominate global markets. We dig into a new report from the European Union to see if it offers a way to get Europe growing again. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is “productivity”? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account...
2024-09-2541 minMany Happy ReturnsSmart Ways to Stash Your Cash: Banks, Bonds & Money Market FundsSometimes you need a safe place to stash your cash. Savings accounts, bonds and money market funds are all options but how can you maximise returns? And should you ‘lock in a rate’? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What’s wrong with Premium Bonds? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account with Saxo today via: PensionCraft | Saxo (home.saxo) Capital at risk. T&C’s apply. ---...
2024-09-1839 minMany Happy ReturnsConfronting Uncertainty: Building a Financial Plan in an Uncertain WorldCreating a financial plan for your future requires estimating numerous unknown variables. How fast will your investments grow? How much will inflation erode your savings? Will taxes increase? We discuss the most important risks to consider and how to build a reliable plan in an uncertain world. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Will care costs ruin the plan? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account with Saxo today via: Pe...
2024-09-1141 minMany Happy ReturnsMean Reversion in Markets: What Goes Up Must Come Down?Mean reversion is one of the most powerful forces in financial markets. When returns, valuation or concentration rise to extreme levels, it’s usually only a matter of time before they come back into line with history. We discuss which aspects of markets are subject to mean reversion, and how long we might have to wait. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: If you love mean reversion so much, why do you hate technical analysis? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 2...
2024-09-0438 minMany Happy ReturnsMetal of the Future: Has Copper Come A Cropper?Copper is integral to the global economy, and its importance will only increase as the world decarbonises its energy infrastructure. Bulls have long argued that supply will fail to keep up with rising demand, driving copper prices higher. So why have prices slumped in recent months? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Who is ‘Doctor Copper’? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account with Saxo today via: PensionCraft | Saxo (home.saxo) Cap...
2024-07-3133 minMany Happy ReturnsDon't Get Burned: Avoid Single Points of Failure in Your FinancesA botched software update hobbled IT systems around the world, grounding planes and taking TV stations off-air. But it’s not just computer systems that can crash and burn from an innocuous mistake — welcome to the ‘single point of failure’. We discuss underappreciated risks that could devastate your personal finances. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Is any investment completely safe? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account with Saxo today via:
2024-07-2435 minMany Happy ReturnsDavid vs Goliath: Small-Cap Stocks Finally SurgeLast week saw a massive shift in markets, with unloved sectors and smaller stocks outperforming the mega-caps by a record amount. Is Big Tech’s dominance drawing to a close? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Are small-cap funds forced to sell their winners? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account with Saxo today via: PensionCraft | Saxo (home.saxo) Capital at risk. T&C’s apply. ---Get...
2024-07-1738 minMany Happy ReturnsUK House Prices: Is the Slump Over?After prices peaked two years ago, higher mortgage costs have caused the market to stall. But with rate cuts on the horizon, is normal service about to be resumed? We discuss how the change of government will affect the housing market. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Does building more houses really lower prices? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you open an account with Saxo today via: PensionCraft | Saxo (home.saxo) Cap...
2024-07-1033 minMany Happy ReturnsHome Country Bias: Should You Overweight Domestic Stocks?Diversification is the only free lunch in investing, yet many investors choose to overweight their domestic stock market. While the UK makes up a mere 4% of global markets, off-the-shelf portfolios often include shockingly large allocations to British firms. We discuss whether home country bias is a problem or if there are good reasons to favour domestic stocks. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What are safe-haven currencies? --- Thank you to Saxo for sponsoring this episode. Sign up to claim GBP 200 back in online trading fees when you op...
2024-07-0339 minMany Happy ReturnsBuilding a Multi-Factor Stock Portfolio, with Ed CroftThe evidence suggests that certain types of stock tend to beat the market in the long run. Patient investors can reap higher returns by tilting towards stocks that are cheap, high-quality or rising in price. But how easy is it to identify undervalued companies? And what risks are involved in building a DIY portfolio? This week we speak to Ed Croft, the co-founder of Stockopedia, about multi-factor investing and a quantitative approach to stock selection. --- New users of Stockopedia get a special 25% discount on any annual plan if they use...
2024-05-2949 minMany Happy ReturnsBond Battle: Individual Bonds or Bond Funds?As interest rates have risen, more and more people are interested in buying bonds. Individual government bonds can be a useful tool to lock in a high rate. But do individual bonds really make more sense than bond funds? --- Get a FREE share 🎁 worth between £10 and £100, exclusively for Many Happy Return's listeners. Ready to claim your FREE share? 1️⃣ Open a Freetrade account via Freetrade.io/pensioncraft 2️⃣ Fund your account with at least £50 3️⃣ Freetrade will drop the free share into your account within 7-10 days! Thanks to Freetrade for...
2024-05-2244 minMany Happy ReturnsEarnings Season: Can US Stocks Deliver the Goods?With valuations stretched, American stocks need to deliver the goods this earnings season. Companies must grow their profits and defend their margins or risk the end of the S&P 500 bull market. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is a ‘blackout period’? ---Get a FREE share 🎁 worth between £10 and £100, exclusively for Many Happy Return's listeners. Ready to claim your FREE share? 1️⃣ Open a Freetrade account via Freetrade.io/pensioncraft2️⃣ Fund your account with at least £50 3️⃣ Freetrade will drop the free share into your account within 7-10 day...
2024-05-0834 minMany Happy ReturnsPayout Puzzle: Does Dividend Investing Make Sense?Many investors favour stocks that pay a high dividend, opting to live off the cash they generate. Even stingy US tech companies have started to pay dividends. But does a strategy focussed on income make sense? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is ‘Shareholder Yield’? --- Get a FREE share 🎁worth between £10 and £100, exclusively for Many Happy Return's listeners. Ready to claim your FREE share? 1️⃣ Open a Freetrade account via Freetrade.io/pensioncraft 2️⃣ Fund your account with at least £50 3️⃣ Freetrade will drop the free share into your acc...
2024-05-0139 minMany Happy ReturnsShould you de-risk your portfolio before retirement?A stock market crash early in retirement can leave you struggling to live off your investments. We discuss de-risking our portfolios and how to manage ‘sequence of returns’ risk. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Is a stock market crash good for long-term returns? Thanks to Freetrade for sponsoring this episode. Sign up at Freetrade.io/pensioncraft to get a free share worth between £10 and £100. When you invest, your capital is at risk. The probability is weighted, so more expensive shares will be rarer. T&Cs apply. ---Get...
2024-04-2440 minMany Happy ReturnsIs The Bank of England Broken?The Bank of England has been criticised for its failure to foresee high inflation. A damning new report takes aim at the central bank’s forecasting process and urges a major overhaul. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is 'quantitative tightening'? Thanks to Freetrade for sponsoring this episode. Sign up at Freetrade.io/pensioncraft to get a free share worth between £10 and £100. When you invest, your capital is at risk. The probability is weighted, so more expensive shares will be rarer. T&Cs apply. ---Get in...
2024-04-1739 minMany Happy ReturnsHow To Invest a Lump Sum in 2024Investing a lump sum is a big decision that comes with great responsibility. Should you be conservative with your newfound wealth? Should you pile into markets straight away or drip feed slowly over time? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What does FSCS protection cover? Thanks to Freetrade for sponsoring this episode. Sign up at Freetrade.io/pensioncraft to get a free share worth between £10 and £100. When you invest, your capital is at risk. The probability is weighted, so more expensive shares will be rarer. T&Cs apply. ---
2024-04-1037 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Rise and Rise of Nvidia: AI Breakthrough or Bubble?Excitement about AI is powering a new bull market. Nvidia smashed earnings expectations, catapulting the company towards a two-trillion dollar valuation and lifting stocks globally. Thanks to Freetrade for sponsoring this episode. Sign up at Freetrade.io/pensioncraft to get a free share worth between £10 and £100. When you invest, your capital is at risk. The probability is weighted, so more expensive shares will be rarer. T&Cs apply. ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a me...
2024-02-2837 minMany Happy ReturnsUK Recession: Investing During an Economic DownturnThe UK and Japan slipped into recession at the end of 2023, and growth remains weak in Europe and China. While the US economy is booming, much of the world is struggling — does an economic downturn spell disaster for our investments? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What’s the difference between a recession and a depression? Thanks to Freetrade for sponsoring this episode. Sign up at Freetrade.io/pensioncraft to get a free share worth between £10 and £100. When you invest, your capital is at risk. The probability is weighted, so more expensive shares w...
2024-02-2140 minMany Happy ReturnsWhat I learned from talking to 1,000 people about their investmentsSince starting PensionCraft, I’ve spoken to more than a thousand people about their finances, helping with their investing goals, strategies, and fears. We discuss common challenges investors face and how they chart the right course. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why is it so hard to talk about money? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube ---Disclaimer
2024-01-1040 minMany Happy ReturnsHow to Fight Investing FOMOThe Fear of Missing Out tempts us all. Amid fast-moving markets and 24-hour news, FOMO can be an investor's worst enemy, derailing decision-making and undermining long-term goals. We discuss the strategies that help us stick to the plan. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: When is the right time to sell an investment? Thanks to Lightyear for sponsoring this episode. Sign up at lightyear.app.link/pensioncraft or use the code PENSIONCRAFT to get a US fractional share worth $10. Capital at risk. The provider of investment services is Lightyear Financial Ltd for th...
2023-11-2939 minMany Happy ReturnsRaging Bullion: Is Gold a Good Investment?Forged in the final moments of exploding neutron stars, gold has the best origin story of any asset. To some, gold’s scarcity and history make it the only real form of money. To others, it's just a shiny rock. It's claimed to be an inflation hedge, a trusted store of value, and the asset to own when all else fails. But does gold have a role to play in our portfolios? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why did we abandon the gold standard? Selected links Thre...
2023-03-0141 minMany Happy Returns2022 Merry Market Recap: Claus for concernA festive round-up of the major investing stories of 2022. We consider the trends that moved the market and ask which will continue into the next year. If you've ever wanted to hear ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ adapted for investors, today is your lucky day! And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Did the wise men construct a good portfolio for Jesus? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.co...
2022-12-2138 minMany Happy ReturnsDon't be fooled by 'Dreamwashing'The investment world is full of attempts to milk us for fees and capital. But how is it done? Simply take a humdrum product, dress it up in exciting clothes, and sell the dream. Is your active fund secretly tracking an index? Is your favourite meme stock hiding faltering performance with gimmicks? Who’s actually paying for that champagne lunch with your financial advisor? Today, we coin a new term for this phenomenon: Dreamwashing. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Do you need a financial advisor? Selected links C...
2022-12-0741 minMany Happy ReturnsTricks of the trade-off: How to balance priorities in investingInvestment decisions always involve trade-offs. Spend vs save. Risk vs return. There's no way around them, no matter how many times you rejig your spreadsheet. We look at five trade-offs every investor has to face: Spend vs save Risk vs return Ethics vs diversification Reliability vs excitement Liquidity vs lifestyle choices And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Is it better to overpay your mortgage or invest? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join P...
2022-11-3040 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Stock Market World CupWhich countries will deliver world-beating returns to shareholders over the next four years? That’s the question we ask in today's unofficial and unscientific Stock Market World Cup. We have four closely fought international matchups to decide: UK vs France Germany vs China USA vs Japan India vs Brazil And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why do index funds not perfectly track the performance an index? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCra...
2022-11-2347 minMany Happy ReturnsThe worst week in crypto history... so far.Last week saw FTX implode in a storm of allegations that culminated in bankruptcy. The failure of the second-largest exchange and standard-bearer for the industry has left everyone asking: what next for crypto investors? The fallout is ongoing, with customers nursing heavy losses, investigators circling and the industry teetering. We delve into what caused the collapse and ask if it could bring down more crypto institutions. Could it even spread to the wider financial system? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is a bank run? ...
2022-11-1649 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Long Covid Economy: Will the pandemic permanently change our society and investments?The pandemic delivered a massive simultaneous shock to the world economy. But which changes will outlast the pandemic, and should they cause us to rethink our investments? Alongside six million deaths and the largest peacetime fall in GDP since the Great Depression, Covid upended our way of life and put novel technologies centre stage. Pandemics throughout history have caused lasting economic changes and influenced societal norms. But what will the legacy of Covid be for the global economy, standards of living and investment returns? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Wh...
2022-11-0939 minMany Happy ReturnsBanana skin in the game: How to learn from your investing mistakesIt is often said that failure is a better teacher than success. This week we discuss how to live with and learn from your investing mistakes. Spotting errors is not as easy as it might sound, even with the benefit of hindsight. But there are strategies we can employ to stop them from derailing our investing goals. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why is Warren Buffett’s investment company called Berkshire Hathaway? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- ...
2022-11-0239 minMany Happy ReturnsTrick or Treat: Which assets will rise from the dead?2022 has been a horror show in markets. A nightmare on Wall Street. But every crisis presents opportunities for investors. This week we look at six different assets and consider if they may be about to rise from the grave. US small-cap stocks Chinese equity TIPS Commodities Ethereum Annuities And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What are zombie companies and will they ever die? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at...
2022-10-2645 minMany Happy ReturnsGilt Trip: Did UK government bonds almost blow up the financial system?The gilt market was the last place anyone expected systemic risk to almost blow up the UK pensions industry, force the Bank of England into emergency bond purchases, cause the chancellor to be sacked, and make the government reverse its flagship economic policy. But are we now out of the woods? And what other markets are vulnerable to sharply rising bond yields and similar ‘doom-loop’ dynamics? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is a haircut? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm...
2022-10-1945 minMany Happy ReturnsRate accompli: Are rising interest rates bad for all assets?Interest rates are rising at breakneck speed and the impact on the value of assets is profound. We look at how stocks, bonds, gold and property respond to climbing rates. And consider whether any assets might actually benefit from rising rates? We dig into why interest rates are so influential for asset prices. So if you're a fan of cost of capital, discounted cashflows and duration effects, this is the episode for you! And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is an Interest Rate Swap? ---Ge...
2022-10-1243 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Ten Commandments of InvestingEveryone loves a list: Buzzfeed, Santa, even God himself. But if you had to list the ten most important investing principles, what would you choose? These are our guidelines for how to sustainably grow your wealth while enjoying the journey and avoiding catastrophic loss. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What is asset correlation and why does it matter? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ...
2022-10-0539 minMany Happy ReturnsMini budget. Major problems.On Friday, the UK chancellor unveiled his ‘mini-budget’ with the most significant tax cuts in 50 years. The market reaction was swift and brutal. Sterling crashed to a record low versus the dollar, and UK borrowing costs spiked. We ask why the market reacted so negatively and what it means for those of us who own UK assets. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why not invest everything in the US stock market? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm ---
2022-09-2841 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Bond King, with Mary ChildsMary Childs (financial journalist and co-host of NPR's Planet Money) joins us to discuss her recent book The Bond King: How One Man Made a Market, Built an Empire, and Lost It All. This is the story of Bill Gross, the legendary investor and fund manager who revolutionised the bond market. Before Bill Gross, bonds were the sleepy backbone of retirement accounts, paying the holders a steady stream of coupons each year. But Gross upended all that. After co-founding investment giant Pimco in the 1970s, Gross pioneered active bond trading: buying, selling and e...
2022-09-1642 minMany Happy ReturnsHow bad will the recession be?Many forecasters think that recession is imminent in the UK and Europe, with the US not far behind. But how deep will the downturn be? How long will it last? And will the economy emerge stronger on the other side? We discuss how this recession could compare to ones in the past and which assets might best weather the storm. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Why does economic growth matter and is it unsustainable? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com ...
2022-09-1447 minMany Happy ReturnsWill artificial intelligence transform investing?This episode is sponsored by NOA: Click here to get the free months of NOA premium. Some claim that artificial intelligence will trigger the fourth industrial revolution, upending traditional ways of living and doing business. This week we look at how an AI and big data arms race might change the world of investing. We discuss the implications for markets and returns and the effect AI could have on our investment decisions and portfolios. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Why is it so hard to beat the mar...
2022-09-0745 minMany Happy ReturnsIs it dumb to invest in IPOs?This episode is sponsored by NOA: Click here to get a free month of NOA premium. 2021 was a record year for initial public offerings. More than 3,000 companies listed on global stock markets and raised over $600 billion in the process. Companies such as Coinbase, Roblox and Rivian each pulled in more than 10 billion dollars. Exciting times! But since going public, many companies have seen their stock price plunge, leaving investors to wonder: Are IPOs a good investment? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Am I missing out by...
2022-08-3144 minMany Happy ReturnsInvesting in China: Year of the Bear?This episode is sponsored by NOA: Click here to get a free month of NOA premium. Few topics divide opinion more than investing in China. The incredible growth. The ethical dilemmas. The disappointing returns. This week we look at the big economic and political developments in China and whether now is the time to buy Chinese equity. What opportunities and risks confront investors? And how should we think about Chinese stocks in the context of our portfolios? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: What happens if Chinese stocks ar...
2022-08-2443 minMany Happy ReturnsCurrency fluctuations: Take the hedge off?This episode is sponsored by NOA: Click here to get a free month of NOA premium. This year has seen remarkable shifts in currency markets, with the US Dollar reaching a 20 year high and parity with the Euro. We discuss the factors that drive exchange rates and the implications of a strong US dollar on trade, growth and our investments. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Should you currency hedge your investments? Selected links Dollar Doom Loop video (PensionCraft) Bretton Woods III video (PensionCraft) The St...
2022-08-1742 minMany Happy ReturnsIs inflation rigged?The cost of living always attracts controversy, even before the current surge in prices. Many people believe that the true rate of inflation is consistently far higher than the official stats suggest. But is there any evidence to back up these claims? We discuss the nuances of how inflation is calculated and whether the changes made in the 1980s and 1990s have lowered official inflation numbers, as claimed by websites such as ShadowStats. And what impact does it have on investors? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: Why does the Fe...
2022-08-1040 minMany Happy ReturnsBaby Buffett: How to invest for childrenKids are sometimes hard-work, often fun, and always expensive. But due to the magic of compounding, a small amount of money invested when they are young can grow into a substantial nest egg for later in life. We discuss how much to set aside, what to put in their portfolio, and how to keep them from blowing the cash as soon as they turn 18. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Is government debt effectively stealing from future generations? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com
2022-08-0344 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Weirdest ETFs: Moats, Goats and YOLOVICE. UFO. COW. Welcome to the weird world of niche ETFs. Exchange Traded Funds are an easy way for investors to buy into a basket of stocks. The last few years has seen a proliferation of ETFs that offer investors different indices, themes, and strategies. We discuss which of these funds is worth our time, in what environments they might outperform, and how best to incorporate them in our portfolio. And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: What’s the difference between ETFs and ETNs? ---Ge...
2022-07-2047 minMany Happy ReturnsThe Big Shortage: What happens if Russia turns off the gas?Natural gas is critical to the functioning of the European economy, used in everything from heating homes to powering industry. Russia is the continent's biggest gas supplier, and many analysts fear that President Putin might be about to turn off the gas taps. The impact of such a move could be profound, with the German Economy Minister warning of the potential for a “Lehman Brothers” moment. We look at how likely it is to happen, what the fallout could be, and what could it mean for our investments? And in today’s Dumb Questi...
2022-07-1342 minMany Happy ReturnsLeverage: No margin for errorLeverage is borrowing money to invest. It can boost your returns in good times and amplify your losses when the market turns against you. This week we look at the different types of leveraged investments and how to employ them. We discuss the pros and cons of investing with margin loans, leveraged ETFs, and options. And the surprising evidence for using leverage to reduce retirement risk... And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: "If your broker sells your stocks in a margin call, can you be left owing more money than you invested?" ...
2022-07-0639 minMany Happy ReturnsGovernment bonds just got interestingGovernment bonds are considered the steady - perhaps even boring - investment class. But this year has seen the biggest bond crash in a generation, as inflation runs wild and central banks pretend not to panic. As if things weren’t interesting enough, the European Central Bank is concocting a new wheeze to keep bond spreads in check, the Bank of Japan is printing record-breaking amounts of money, and Russia has defaulted on its debt. We try to make sense of all this and wonder whether now might be the time to buy government bonds? An...
2022-06-2937 minMany Happy ReturnsMarket timing: Signs of the top and bottomThis year the S&P 500 has fallen over 23%. With the benefit of hindsight, what were the clues that we had reached the top at the start of 2022? And what could indicate the market has now reached a bottom and is about to resume its upward drift? Accepted wisdom says that what matters is “time in the market, not timing the market.” Is this always true? And how does it affect how we invest? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week, we ask "When stock prices fall, where does the money go?" ...
2022-06-2253 minMany Happy ReturnsUK Stocks: No tech please, we're BritishThe UK stock market has lagged global indices over the past decade and struggled to attract new companies. We look at the reasons for the underperformance and the prospects for the future. We discuss the sector composition of the UK market, with its crucial underweight in technology companies, as well as whether the dividend investing culture at many UK equity funds holds back business investment and growth. And in today's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask "How can a stock be listed on two exchanges and does it matter which one I buy?"
2022-06-1540 minMany Happy ReturnsThis is the new oil... honest.For decades, oil has held a critical and unique place in the global economy. Many commodities are claimed to be “the new oil” for their importance in the modern world. But are these claims mere soundbites or do they indicate the emergence of new strategic commodities? We discuss the prospects for claims ranging from tech innovations like data and artificial intelligence to natural resources like copper and gas. For each, we ask are these really going to be the "new oil?" And if so, how can we best position ourselves as investors? And in t...
2022-06-0847 minMany Happy ReturnsWhat is risk?There are many different risks we have to navigate as investors, from the volatility of markets to collapsing companies to our own behaviour. How we choose to respond to these risks is ultimately what will determine our success in building and preserving our wealth. This week we dig into the different types of investment risk, how best to measure and quantify them, and what strategies we can employ to protect our portfolios. And in the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask "What happens if my broker goes bankrupt?" ---Get...
2022-06-0151 minMany Happy ReturnsHow earnings season moves stock marketsThe S&P 500 has fallen to the brink of a bear market, with companies severely punished for missing their earnings forecasts. The price-to-earnings multiple has declined and market prospects look uncertain. The question everyone is asking is ‘what comes next?' We look into whether the S&P 500 is now at fair value? What events could trigger a stock market crash? And whether bonds will successfully hedge equity going forward? And in the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Why do people still reference the Dow Jones industrial average? Selected li...
2022-05-2548 minMany Happy ReturnsStablecoin collapse: The horse has boltedStablecoins are a core part of the financial plumbing when it comes to cryptocurrency and digital assets. They promise that if you put a dollar in, you will always be able to get a dollar out. But last week saw Terra, one of the largest stablecoins, lose its peg to the dollar and collapse. Investors are estimated to have lost over $40 billion in value. Ouch. We dig into what happened, what might be the consequences for markets and whether stablecoins present a systemic risk to the economy. And in the Dumb Question of...
2022-05-1847 minMany Happy ReturnsStock Market MythsMyth-busting popular sayings, cliches and folk wisdom about the stock market and investing. We discuss "sell in May and go away", dividend investing, and "buy the dip." Ramin also let's loose on Technical Analysis and the dependability of vomiting camels. In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Are credit ratings useless? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube ---Disc...
2022-05-1143 minMany Happy ReturnsWarren Buffett: Is the magic back?The Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting is often referred to as the Woodstock of Capitalism, where legendary investors Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger opine on the state of markets and investing. The 2022 meeting took place this weekend, with as many interesting nuggets of wisdom and controversy as ever. We discuss Berkshire ramping up their stock purchases and running down their cash pile, the companies they've bought into, and Buffett's opinions on everything from inflation to bitcoin. And we answer the Dumb Question of the Week: How accurate is the forward Price-to-Earnings ratio, given it relies on...
2022-05-0435 minMany Happy ReturnsShould you hedge your investments against inflation?Many different assets are touted as potential inflation hedges but which ones actually work? People often make the case for inflation-linked bonds, gold, commodities... but how do we know how each asset class will respond in a period of high inflation? When does it make sense for us to hedge? What risks are involved and what impact does it have on our long-term investment returns? In today's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: What does it mean to say the Fed is behind the curve? ---Get in...
2022-04-2743 minMany Happy ReturnsEmerging Markets: Is it time to invest?Emerging Markets promised investors better returns and broader diversification. But growth has stalled in recent years, with heightened volatility and uncertainty. This week we look at what risks and opportunities are involved with investing in Emerging Markets and what role they should play in our portfolio. We discuss the unique position of China, the impact of tighter Fed monetary policy on developing countries, and the distinction between Emerging and Frontier markets. And in today's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: How do ETFs actually work? ---Get in...
2022-04-2043 minMany Happy ReturnsCould house prices crash?House prices in the UK are up by 10% year on year, with similar rises in much of the western world. What has caused this runaway growth in prices? And what could cause it to reverse? We look to interest rates, supply constraints, government policy and wage growth for the answer. Could the market be in for a fall or is it poised just to keep on rising? In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Why does infinite money printing not inevitably lead to high inflation? ---Get in touch
2022-04-1345 minMany Happy ReturnsHow much is enough?How much money do you need to invest to live the life you want? How much can you safely withdraw from a portfolio each year? And how do you ensure you don't run out of money in retirement? What really makes us happy? What role does money play in our happiness and how do we approach investing for our future? And in today's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Does passive investing distort markets? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm ---
2022-04-0637 minMany Happy ReturnsMeme ReversionMeme stocks are on the rise again, with GameStop and AMC leading the charge again over the past week. We look back at the crazy month of January 2021 to understand what caused meme stocks to gain over 2,000%, before falling back just as sharply. How did the short squeeze on hedge funds work? What effect did Wall Street Bets and social media have? And what does the future hold for these stocks? In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask what it means to say something is "priced in" to markets. ---
2022-03-3039 minMany Happy ReturnsIn the Toilet: Macroeconomic indicatorsWhich macroeconomic indicators should we look at to understand where markets are heading? How important are labour market indicators such as nonfarm payrolls, initial jobless claims and the unemployment rate? And what impact do housing and credit market indicators - such as the senior loan officers survey - have on markets? How do these different data points influence federal reserve policy and the wider economy? In this week's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Does global equity always rise in the long term? And if so, why? Selected links ...
2022-03-2347 minMany Happy ReturnsBear in Mind: Cognitive bias in investingCognitive biases can impair investment decisions and cause us to make costly mistakes. We discuss the different biases, how to mitigate their impact, and even how to profit from bias in the market. We discuss loss aversion, the endowment effect, anchoring bias, the bandwagon effect, survivorship bias, and confirmation bias. In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: When should you cut your losses on an investment that keeps falling? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join P...
2022-03-1640 minMany Happy ReturnsRussian for the ExitsHow will sanctions on Russia affect markets? Western governments have imposed unprecedented economic sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Central bank reserves have been frozen. Banks have been cut out of the SWIFT payment network. And Russian stocks have been shorn from equity indices. We look at what impact these moves will have on markets and how investors might respond. Is inflation going to keep rising? Might there be hidden systemic risks lurking? And might markets fall further? In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask why central banks target...
2022-03-0945 minMany Happy ReturnsSatellite Navigation: Portfolio part 2Should you add satellite investments to your core investment portfolio? To prevent meddling with the core investment portfolio, many investors set aside a small amount of money to invest in risky satellite investments. Ramin talks us through some of the assets he has on his 'Market Crash Shopping List' and when he might consider adding them to his portfolio. We look at actively managed investment trusts, leveraged funds, Chinese stocks, high-yield credit, REITs, cryptocurrency and more. In today's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: What does it mean to say...
2022-03-0247 minMany Happy ReturnsCore Strength: Portfolio part 1A popular approach to investing is to construct a core portfolio of long-term investments. But what investments should go into this core? We consider the case for stocks, bonds, cash and gold, and how they complement each other. We also discuss what to look for in an index fund, when to rebalance and what risks are involved in long-term investing. In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Who actually decides what companies are included in the S&P 500 index? Selected links S&P 500 return calculator T-Rex score Golden...
2022-02-2343 minMany Happy ReturnsIt's not ESG being greenCan ESG funds save the planet while delivering strong investment returns? ESG funds claim to be able to keep the environment - and your conscience - clean. And all while delivering better returns than the broad market. We dig into how ESG indexes are constructed, what returns we can expect, and whether the environmental claims actually stack up. We also consider alternative investments which might be better placed to achieve the same goals. In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Why would anyone buy bonds with a negative yield? Aren't you...
2022-02-1635 minMany Happy ReturnsTech Shares on the TitanicBig Tech companies have had a wild earnings season. Meta - the parent company of Facebook - suffered the largest-ever one-day loss in market value for a US company. The very next day, Amazon notched the largest-ever one-day gain in history. What is going on to cause such dramatic price moves? And what does the future hold for companies such as Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook, Tesla and Microsoft? In the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask why companies care about their stock price? And how does the company benefit from a higher...
2022-02-0932 minMany Happy ReturnsFactor Fiction?Ramin and Michael look at whether investing in factors such as value, momentum or quality can boost returns. Which stocks do these funds buy? What are the risks? And how might we incorporate them in our portfolios? And in the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Do CEO's deserve their high pay and does it lead to better performance? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ▶️ Subs...
2022-02-0226 minMany Happy ReturnsBubble or Nothing?Are we in an asset bubble? Stocks, property and many other investments look expensive at the moment. Ramin guides us through different ways of looking at valuations to see just how expensive. If we are in a bubble, what could cause it to pop? And how can we protect ourselves as investors? And in today's Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Is China communist or capitalist? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐...
2022-01-2633 minMany Happy ReturnsBuffeted by InflationIn the first ever episode of Many Happy Returns, Ramin and Michael discuss the current surge in inflation. How bad is it? How long will it last? And how might it affect our stock, bond and gold investments? In our regular Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: Is legendary stockpicker Warren Buffett’s success is down to skill or luck? ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube ...
2022-01-1938 min