Cash and bonds
Whether you view your money as nothing more than the means to an end or the ultimate security blanket, one thing's for sure, you need to look after it.
The value of investments can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invest.
Cash is a low-risk investment. A bank repays it on demand in most cases and even pays you interest.
When you invest in a bond, you effectively lend money to the provider. Your money is at risk because there's a chance that the issuer won't be able to make repayments. Bonds tend to pay a fixed interest rate although some returns are linked to a benchmark such as an index.
The returns are potentially higher but you'll need to deposit your money over a longer period. And, if you sell a bond before it matures, you might get back less than you paid for it. If the bond issuer can't repay you, you can lose all of your capital.
Introduction to investment bonds and gilts
On the investment risk scale, bonds – sometimes referred to as fixed income investments – typically sit between cash and shares. Bonds however, come in a variety of guises. We look at what you need to know.
Investment Account
A fully flexible way to invest
A flexible, straightforward account with no limits on the amount you can invest.
Investments Explained
You can choose from thousands of investments to build a portfolio to match your needs, and with our expert insight, tools, tips and more, we can help guide you on your investment journey though we cannot advise you on investments that might be suitable for you.
Exploring investments on Smart Investor
You have the choice of thousands of investments to help you achieve your financial goals. Once you’ve opened one of our accounts, we offer you various ways to explore and find the right investments for you.
Ways to invest
Always remember that investments can fall in value. You may get back less than you invest.
Plan & Invest
Plan & Invest is a new service which creates and manages a personalised Investment Plan just for you. Whether your long-term goal is home improvements, retirement or just building a nest egg, all you have to do is tell us a bit about yourself and then let our experts select and manage your investments.
Smart Investor
To choose and manage your own investments from a range of funds, shares, ETFs and bonds, get started today by simply opening up an Investment (Stocks & Shares) ISA, Investment Account or SIPP Account with Smart Investor.
Already have an account?
If you already have an account, log in to continue.
Chat
Use our online chat service to discuss your query with a member of our team.
Call us
If you have any questions, you can give us a call on 0800 279 36671.