Investment trusts for your ISA
Investment trusts can be added to an Individual Savings Account (ISA).
There are two main types of ISA - 'maxi' and 'mini'. ISAs act like wrapping paper, allowing you to invest or save a certain amount without having to share the proceeds with the taxman; there is no capital gains or income tax to be paid on returns - one of the few breaks for taxpayers. The investment options within each type of ISA are stocks and shares, cash and insurance.
A maxi ISA must be arranged with one provider and allows you to stash up to £7,200 in stocks and shares or hold a combination of up to £3,600 cash, up to £1,000 in insurance and the remaining £3,600 in stocks and shares. You can open mini ISAs with different providers with a choice of £3,600 in cash, £3,600 in stocks and shares and £1,000 insurance. The option to invest the lot in stocks and shares does not apply to mini ISAs. The key thing to remember is that you cannot open mini and maxi ISAs in the same tax year (6th April - 5 April).
What are the benefits of investment trusts?
Your money is pooled with other investors money, reducing costs and increasing investment opportunities.
The risk is spread because you are investing in a wide range of shares.
Managers. expertise means your money is invested effectively.
The charges are low so more of your money starts working from the moment you invest.
You can invest small amounts from as little as £25 a month or lump sums of £250.
Combine the benefits of investment trusts and ISAs and you have an effective and tax-efficient way to invest in the stockmarket.
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