Getting Started: Practical Steps
Choose Your Platform: IG offers a comprehensive service with access to global markets and competitive pricing. IG provides share dealing, SIPP and ISA accounts, plus advanced tools for research and portfolio management. Their platform offers access to UK and many international stocks, as well as ETFs and investment trusts.
Start with Index Funds: For beginners, low-cost index funds are often the best starting point. Through IG, you can access a wide range of ETFs that track global indices. A global equity index fund can provide instant diversification across thousands of companies worldwide. UK investors might consider ETFs tracking the FTSE All-World or MSCI World indices, which are readily available on IG’s platform.
Regular Investing: Rather than trying to time the market, consider setting up regular monthly investments. This pound-cost averaging approach helps smooth out market volatility and removes the emotional element from investing decisions.
Keep Costs Low: Investment fees compound over time just like returns, but in reverse. IG offers no commission on ETFs or Stocks, with the quarterly custody fee being wiped if you make one trade a month, making it cost-effective for long-term investors. Look for ETFs with low annual management charges when building your portfolio through IG’s extensive security selection.