Press Releases

Press releases

This page and the articles below contain press releases, which are for media use only. Individual investors looking for information such as market commentary or fund updates should take a look at our latest Insights.


Ethical ISA Ideas 2020 Published on 26 Feb 20 by Adrian Lowcock (135 views) The UK, Japan and emerging markets offer investors attractive options this ISA season, Willis Owen says Fund picks include Merian UK Mid Cap, Man GLG Japan Core Alpha and Lazard Emerging Markets read more
Coronavirus fears hit global markets in January Published on 03 Feb 20 by Adrian Lowcock (141 views) UK Gilts offered investors a safe haven in January Chinese, Asian and Japanese markets suffered on Corona Virus fears Energy funds also hurt after oil price collapse read more
Willis Owen hires Head of Digital to enhance customer experience Published on 29 Jan 20 by Adrian Lowcock (390 views) Willis Owen appoints Head of Digital Alex Rees previously worked at BNP Paribas and Ocado Rees appointed to develop Willis Owen’s digital strategy read more
Willis Owen’s outlook for 2020 Published on 10 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (310 views) Take a look at Willis Owen’s outlook for 2020 read more
How to give your finances a January detox Published on 04 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (278 views) January is a month when we put aside the excesses of Christmas. Many of us stay at home nursing the damage we have done to our bodies and our bank balances. read more
Five New Year’s resolutions for investors Published on 04 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (292 views) Investor behaviour is mostly focused on short term noise which can inhibit or negatively impact their investment decisions. Adrian Lowcock, Head of Personal Investing at Willis Owen, suggest five rules for investors to live by in the New Year read more
Five funds for 2020 Published on 03 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (256 views) Markets have been on a wild ride this year, with gains for some of the world’s leading equity indices and a sharp reversal in bond yields which has seen fixed income investors also enjoy solid returns. read more
Five financial gifts for children at Christmas 2019 Published on 03 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (260 views) With Christmas fast approaching, many parents will be busily trying to fulfil their children’s wish lists to Santa. read more
Willis Owen reveals the best and worst sectors and funds in November 2019 Published on 02 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (282 views) Investors return as global growth fears ease: Biotech the best performer in November Gold equity and Latin American funds both suffer read more
Will this year’s General Election spark a Santa Rally Published on 27 Nov 19 by Adrian Lowcock (319 views) Since the FTSE 100 was created in 1984 the index has increased by an average of 2.2% during the month of December, excluding dividends The FTSE 100 has only fallen seven times during December in 34 years, including 2014, 2015 and 2018 The so-called Santa Rally occurs 79.4% of the time, making it one of the most reliable statistical market trends The last two weeks of the year are statistically the strongest, starting, on average on the 10th trading day of December. read more
Three investment trusts on big discounts for Black Friday Published on 20 Nov 19 by Adrian Lowcock (276 views) Adrian Lowcock, Head of personal investing, Willis Owen shares three investment trusts on big discounts for Black Friday. read more
Best performing Junior ISA Funds Published on 21 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (305 views) Junior ISAs turn 8 this November and have become one of the most popular ways to invest for Children. They are fairly easy to understand and flexible enough that once set up anyone can contribute to it. read more
Does the winner of the General Election affect markets? Published on 09 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (341 views) John Major had best first month in office, since the 1987 General Election Tony Blair had the best first year in office in 1997 and then again in 2005 When John Major was prime minister the FTSE 100 returned 126.88% read more
Ethical Investing “outperforming non-ethical in US and UK” Published on 07 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (377 views) Ethical indices beat their non-ethical peers over 10 years Ethical investments have risen 17% to £20bn in August 2019 3 different approaches to ethical investing Ethical investment ideas read more
Should investors fear ‘red’ October Published on 04 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (336 views) 7 of the 11 worst one day falls have happened in October On average October is the 5th best month performing month of the year read more
Willis Owen reveals why you should be bean counting this International Coffee Day Published on 01 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (279 views) The investment platform is encouraging savers and investors to take 1omins on 1st October 2019 to make small incremental changes to their finances read more
2019 Rugby World Cup: Fantasy Fund Manager, who has made the Willis Owen Squad Published on 23 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (374 views) There are a number of parallels between picking a winning rugby team and building a successful portfolio. As well as finding the best individual performers, it is also vital to make sure they have strengths, which complement each other as well as a combination of youth and experience. read more
‘Sell in May’ works for UK shares for second year running but weak pound lifts investments overseas Published on 09 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (478 views) The traditional adage ‘Sell in May and go away, don’t come back until St Leger’s Day’ is on course to come true in the UK this summer for the second year running, according to analysis by Willis Owen, the online investment platform. read more
Gilts show their defensive qualities as investors grow concerned over economic growth Published on 09 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (373 views) • Index-Linked funds take 7 out of 10 top spots in August • Global Emerging Markets the worst performer • Woodfords’ woes continue as it remains worst performing UK equity fund read more
Investors pull £1.2bn out of the UK as Brexit uncertainty and global growth concerns weigh Published on 05 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (387 views) Fixed Income was the best-selling asset class with £2.2 billion in net retail sales UK funds experienced net retail outflows of £1.2 billion. read more
Gold Shines whilst Technology continues to perform Published on 01 Aug 19 by Adrian Lowcock (448 views) US and Technology rally extends into July Gold funds top performance tables UK Smaller companies disappoint as Brexit Uncertainty weighs read more
US economy hits longest phase of expansion in history: should investors be prepared for a downturn? Published on 01 Aug 19 by Adrian Lowcock (529 views) US economy grows for 121 month from June 2009 Longest period of economic growth for US on record, surpassing the 120-months of growth between March 1991 and March 2001 S&P 500 has delivered an annualized average of 16.87% for sterling investors read more
A third of retail investors have changed their portfolio in the last 12 months due to social media Published on 01 Jul 19 by Adrian Lowcock (438 views) New research from Willis Owen reveals 34% of UK retail investors have made at least one change to their investments over the past 12 months as a result of announcements made via social media channels. Some 9% claim to have made at least five investment changes because of this, and 2% have made more than 10. read more
US tech and small cap the winners while Woodford wilts Published on 01 Jul 19 by Adrian Lowcock (414 views) US and Technology continue to lead in first half of 2019 Omnis Income and growth (formerly managed by Woodford) and WEIF the worst performing equity funds Top ten performing funds are a mix of US, European and Russian equity portfolios read more
Woodford the worst since Brexit vote as UK investors miss out by “backing Britain” Published on 21 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (576 views) UK investors who have stuck rigidly to the UK since Britain voted to Brexit could have doubled their money by investing overseas, with equity funds focused on the UK – including Neil Woodford’s equity income offering – lagging far behind peers, according to research from Willis Owen. read more
Equity Income funds: don’t throw the baby out with the bath water Published on 19 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (608 views) Top Ten Equity Income funds for income Top Ten Equity Income funds for total return (growth & Income) Five key characteristics of Equity Income funds read more
Research reveals extent of gender pension split Published on 18 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (458 views) 41% of women without a pension plan have no intention to start saving into one 17% of people who are not saving into a pension plan don’t ever expect to stop working 35% of people claim to have stopped paying into a pension plan over the past 12 months read more
Latest Investment Association statistics reveal even ISA season cannot reverse outflows from the UK Published on 06 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (451 views) Net retail sales rose to £2bn for first time since April 2018 UK continues to remain unloved as Brexit drags on Global equities remain top selling sector of 3rd consecutive month with £971m of sales read more
Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in May 2019 Published on 03 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (497 views) UK index-linked gilts shine in May as investors turn cautious Seven out of 10 top-performing funds are Government bond funds China and Technology are worst-performing sectors as fortunes are reversed read more
The dogs fight back: the 2018 worst-performing UK funds with the biggest rebound revealed Published on 03 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (520 views) Eight of the worst-performing UK funds of 2018 recovered by up to 19% this year1 read more
Investing for 10 years generated a positive return 98% of the time Published on 21 May 19 by Adrian Lowcock (491 views) The FTSE 100 has given an average total return of 139.36% over 10-year periods Three tips to becoming a long term investor include staying calm, remembering goals and adopting contrarian approach read more
UK adults would invest £35bn more a year if investment products were more transparent Published on 01 May 19 by Adrian Lowcock (604 views) Welsh adults are most deterred from investing by lack of clarity from investment management industry¹ read more
Sell in May adage makes no sense for investors, Willis Owen says Published on 25 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (489 views) Analysis shows staying invested and reaping dividend rewards enhanced returns by 40% over last 33 summers read more
Fundsmith Equity is best-selling in closing stage of the ISA season Published on 17 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (755 views) Fundsmith Equity was the biggest selling fund on the Willis Owen investment platform in the last month of the 2018/19 ISA season¹ read more
Research reveals outperforming fund managers have seen their stars fade in new roles Published on 15 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (460 views) New analysis by Willis Owen reveals how star fund managers can underperform when they move into new roles. read more
Early bird investors do catch the worm, Willis Owen research reveals Published on 01 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (500 views) Willis Owen’s analysis of the FTSE 100 and the FTSE All Share since ISAs were launched 20 years ago on 6th April 1999 shows that investors who were quick to invest received a better return than those who left it until the last minute or saved regularly each month. read more
Analysis by Willis Owen reveals actively-managed funds significantly outperform passives Published on 21 Mar 19 by Adrian Lowcock (1,143 views) Analysis shows only two index funds rank in top 50 performers over three and five years read more
Willis Owen welcomes exit fee ban Published on 14 Mar 19 by Adrian Lowcock (645 views) Exit fees have been an ongoing problem for investors, trapping them in services they no longer want or need. read more
Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in February 2019 Published on 01 Mar 19 by Adrian Lowcock (913 views) US Smaller Companies continue to lead rally for second month in a row having been worst performer in December Brazilian and Latin American funds drop into worst-performing funds having been best performers in January read more
UK smaller companies, global and emerging markets offer great JISA potential Published on 22 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (743 views) The strong long-term prospects for the UK Smaller Companies, Global and Emerging Market equity sectors make them attractive themes for investment in junior individual savings accounts (JISAs), according to Willis Owen, the online investment service provider. read more
ISA investors in UK stocks could have made £162,349 return over last 20 years, Willis Owen says Published on 21 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (998 views) Best-performing ISA fund has made 2,448% return China/Greater China sector has delivered 771.8% read more
ISA ideas 2019 Published on 13 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (592 views) The UK, Japan and emerging markets are three attractive themes for investors to consider in the current ISA season, according to Adrian Lowcock, Head of Personal Investing at Willis Owen, the online investment service provider. read more
Research reveals star fund managers really do make a difference Published on 11 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (686 views) Willis Owen analysis¹ of 15 investment funds who had star fund managers leave at some stage between 2013 and 2017 reveals the level of out-performance dropped dramatically after their departure. read more
Latest IA statistics reveal a slump in fund sales as investors avoid volatile and risky markets. Published on 07 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (689 views) Net retail sales plummet to £17bn in 2018, compared to £48bn in 2017 Brexit concerns lead to £4.8bn net outflows in 2018 Global equities were most popular in 2018 read more
ISA investors defy Brexit uncertainty to buy British in January, Willis Owen data reveals Published on 06 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (813 views) With the ISA season now underway, UK assets featured strongly in the best-selling funds and sectors on the Willis Owen platform in January. read more
Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in January 2019 Published on 01 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (1,531 views) Indian equity funds take all 10 spots in worst-performing list US Smaller Companies led an equity rebound in January, having been worst performer in December Brazilian and Latin American funds take half the best performing slots read more
Financial advice gap set to get worse as more IFAs look to leave the industry Published on 14 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (819 views) New research(1) from Willis Owen, the leading UK online investment platform, reveals that 17% of IFAs and wealth managers are looking to leave the industry over the next three years read more
Give your finances a January Detox Published on 07 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (828 views) Adrian Lowcock, Head of Personal Investing, Willis Owen offers seven tips for detoxing your finances this January read more
Retail investors complain of lack of clarity from the investment management industry Published on 04 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (807 views) Retail investors complain of lack of clarity from the investment management industry read more
Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in December 2018 Published on 03 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (750 views) Gold funds offer investor protection in a disappointing December Gilts and bonds account for seven of the 10 best-performing sectors US Smaller companies takes “honours” for worst performing sector in December read more
Five financial gifts for children at Christmas Published on 17 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (772 views) “Every Christmas, we add to the pile of toys in our children’s bedrooms and whilst it is great to see their excitement on Christmas Day, sadly the novelty soon wears off. A financial gift is unlikely to have the same response on the day but unlike other presents, these are gifts that are likely to be more enduring and could be worth much more in the future.” read more
Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in 2018 Published on 10 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,015 views) Technology stocks drive markets in 2018 Half of the worst performing funds are gold funds European smaller companies tops the list as worst performing sector. read more
Willis Owen says ‘Brexit hysteria’ means UK equities are undervalued Published on 05 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,020 views) Willis Owen believes concerns around Brexit mean that from a long-term perspective, UK equities are undervalued. read more
One in five JISA accounts to top £40,000 Published on 04 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,082 views) New research(1) amongst people saving or investing into Junior ISAs (JISAs), reveals 19% expect the funds to be worth over £40,000 by the time the children they have been opened for reach 18. read more
Japan and Emerging Market equities offer best value for 2019, says Willis Owen Published on 30 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (805 views) Japan and Emerging Markets (EMs) offer equity investors the best value for 2019, while UK shares are also cheap for those prepared to ride out the Brexit storm, according to Willis Owen, the leading online investment platform. read more
Willis Owen shares three investment trusts on big discounts for Black Friday Published on 23 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (798 views) Real Estate has been one of the hardest hit following Westminster’s damning response to Theresa May’s Brexit agreement. read more
The Santa Rally is unlikely to bring investors joy this year Published on 23 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (795 views) Financial markets have many sayings and trends. Investors are always looking for patterns in all the market and economic data to gain a competitive advantage and boost their investment returns. read more
Black Friday – How to invest for the online retail revolution Published on 16 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,005 views) Black friday has firmly established itself in the retail calendar both in the UK and the US. Whilst some fear its arrival others are eager to grab big bargains that may be on offer. read more
Nearly half of UK JISA investors are saving for higher education Published on 14 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (886 views) Almost half (47%) of those saving into a JISA for a child or relative hope the money will go towards paying for university or higher education, a new survey from Willis Owen reveals. read more
80% of JISA investors keep kids and young adults ‘in the dark’ over savings Published on 14 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (2,138 views) Over four in five (82%) parents and relatives have been investing in JISAs for children or young relatives since they were less than five years of age. However, 80% plan to wait until their recipients are 16 or over before telling them they have money invested, a new survey(1) by Willis Owen reveals. read more
Willis Owen provides reaction to the 2018 Budget and explains the impact for savers and investors Published on 29 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (780 views) In their manifesto, the Tories pledged to increase the income tax personal allowance to £12,500 by and the point at which individuals start paying higher rate income tax to £50,000 by 2020/21. read more
Emerging Market sentiment ‘improving’ according to Willis Owen confidence survey Published on 23 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,007 views) Willis Owen’s latest survey of almost 1000 investors has revealed that over a third (38%) plan to increase their exposure to Asia and emerging markets over the next six months. read more
Nearly one in five investors expect the UK stock market to fall by over 10% in the next six months Published on 23 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (854 views) Research(1) from Willis Owen amongst nearly 1,000 UK retail investors reveals that 17% expect the UK stock market to fall by over 10% between now and April 2019; 6% anticipate a correction of more than 15%. read more
Analysis shows absolute return funds only provide short-term defence against volatility Published on 12 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (746 views) Recent volatility on global financial market may have spurred investors to consider taking refuge in absolute return funds. read more
Best and worst-performing sectors and funds in September 2018 Published on 01 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,382 views) Indian funds make up nine out 10 worst-performing funds Oil rally helps Russian funds become best performers Japan leads the best-performing sectors read more
7 Ways to celebrate Financial Planning Week Published on 01 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (873 views) Financial Planning week runs from the 3rd - 10th October this year. The annual campaign is organised to help people improve and be more mindful of their personal finances. Financial health can be a complex issue for some individuals, although for the majority there are small, everyday things that we can all do to improve our finances. Adrian Lowcock, heading personal investing, Willis Owen gives some tips. read more
Willis Owen shares Fund picks for Ethical investment week Published on 24 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,823 views) Good Money Week begins on Saturday 29th September Ethical indices have beat their non-ethical peers over 10 years Willis Owen shares ethical investment ideas and fund picks read more
Truth of ‘Sell in May’ adage set to return Published on 14 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,233 views) The traditional adage ‘Sell in May and go away, don’t come back until St Leger’s Day’ is on course to come true this summer for the first time in three years, according to new analysis by Willis Owen, the online investment platform. read more
S&P 500 hits longest bull-run in history Published on 14 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (2,299 views) UK investors see returns of more than 400% Current bull market has only provided the seventh best annualised returns out of 11 since World War II Best & Worst performing US funds during the bull market read more
10 Years after Lehman’s Published on 12 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (2,214 views) 7 out of 10 worst performing funds invest in commodities Technology sector has led the bull market Japanese, US, UK and European Smaller Companies all performed strongly after the crisis read more
Best and worst-performing sectors and funds in August 2018 Published on 01 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,203 views) American Smaller Companies is best-performing sector in August European fund is best performer in August Emerging Market Bonds lead worst-performing sectors as Turkey weighs read more
The Care ISA is an ill-thought-out idea Published on 21 Aug 18 by Adrian Lowcock (935 views) The Care ISA is an ill-thought-out idea. It will do very little to help the majority of people who need care in their old age read more

Ethical ISA Ideas 2020

Published on 26 Feb 20 by Adrian Lowcock (135 views)

The UK, Japan and emerging markets offer investors attractive options this ISA season, Willis Owen says

Fund picks include Merian UK Mid Cap, Man GLG Japan Core Alpha and Lazard Emerging Markets

Coronavirus fears hit global markets in January

Published on 03 Feb 20 by Adrian Lowcock (141 views)

UK Gilts offered investors a safe haven in January
Chinese, Asian and Japanese markets suffered on Corona Virus fears
Energy funds also hurt after oil price collapse

Willis Owen hires Head of Digital to enhance customer experience

Published on 29 Jan 20 by Adrian Lowcock (390 views)

Willis Owen appoints Head of Digital
Alex Rees previously worked at BNP Paribas and Ocado
Rees appointed to develop Willis Owen’s digital strategy

Willis Owen’s outlook for 2020

Published on 10 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (310 views)

Take a look at Willis Owen’s outlook for 2020
read more

How to give your finances a January detox

Published on 04 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (278 views)

January is a month when we put aside the excesses of Christmas. Many of us stay at home nursing the damage we have done to our bodies and our bank balances.
read more

Five New Year’s resolutions for investors

Published on 04 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (292 views)

Investor behaviour is mostly focused on short term noise which can inhibit or negatively impact their investment decisions. Adrian Lowcock, Head of Personal Investing at Willis Owen, suggest five rules for investors to live by in the New Year
read more

Five funds for 2020

Published on 03 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (256 views)

Markets have been on a wild ride this year, with gains for some of the world’s leading equity indices and a sharp reversal in bond yields which has seen fixed income investors also enjoy solid returns.
read more

Five financial gifts for children at Christmas 2019

Published on 03 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (260 views)

With Christmas fast approaching, many parents will be busily trying to fulfil their children’s wish lists to Santa.
read more

Willis Owen reveals the best and worst sectors and funds in November 2019

Published on 02 Dec 19 by Adrian Lowcock (282 views)

Investors return as global growth fears ease:

Biotech the best performer in November
Gold equity and Latin American funds both suffer

Will this year’s General Election spark a Santa Rally

Published on 27 Nov 19 by Adrian Lowcock (319 views)

Since the FTSE 100 was created in 1984 the index has increased by an average of 2.2% during the month of December, excluding dividends
The FTSE 100 has only fallen seven times during December in 34 years, including 2014, 2015 and 2018
The so-called Santa Rally occurs 79.4% of the time, making it one of the most reliable statistical market trends
The last two weeks of the year are statistically the strongest, starting, on average on the 10th trading day of December.

Three investment trusts on big discounts for Black Friday

Published on 20 Nov 19 by Adrian Lowcock (276 views)

Adrian Lowcock, Head of personal investing, Willis Owen shares three investment trusts on big discounts for Black Friday.
read more

Best performing Junior ISA Funds

Published on 21 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (305 views)

Junior ISAs turn 8 this November and have become one of the most popular ways to invest for Children. They are fairly easy to understand and flexible enough that once set up anyone can contribute to it.
read more

Does the winner of the General Election affect markets?

Published on 09 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (341 views)

John Major had best first month in office, since the 1987 General Election
Tony Blair had the best first year in office in 1997 and then again in 2005
When John Major was prime minister the FTSE 100 returned 126.88%

Ethical Investing “outperforming non-ethical in US and UK”

Published on 07 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (377 views)

Ethical indices beat their non-ethical peers over 10 years
Ethical investments have risen 17% to £20bn in August 2019
3 different approaches to ethical investing
Ethical investment ideas

Should investors fear ‘red’ October

Published on 04 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (336 views)

7 of the 11 worst one day falls have happened in October
On average October is the 5th best month performing month of the year

Willis Owen reveals why you should be bean counting this International Coffee Day

Published on 01 Oct 19 by Adrian Lowcock (279 views)

The investment platform is encouraging savers and investors to take 1omins on 1st October 2019 to make small incremental changes to their finances
read more

2019 Rugby World Cup: Fantasy Fund Manager, who has made the Willis Owen Squad

Published on 23 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (374 views)

There are a number of parallels between picking a winning rugby team and building a successful portfolio. As well as finding the best individual performers, it is also vital to make sure they have strengths, which complement each other as well as a combination of youth and experience.
read more

‘Sell in May’ works for UK shares for second year running but weak pound lifts investments overseas

Published on 09 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (478 views)

The traditional adage ‘Sell in May and go away, don’t come back until St Leger’s Day’ is on course to come true in the UK this summer for the second year running, according to analysis by Willis Owen, the online investment platform.
read more

Gilts show their defensive qualities as investors grow concerned over economic growth

Published on 09 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (373 views)

• Index-Linked funds take 7 out of 10 top spots in August
• Global Emerging Markets the worst performer
• Woodfords’ woes continue as it remains worst performing UK equity fund
read more

Investors pull £1.2bn out of the UK as Brexit uncertainty and global growth concerns weigh

Published on 05 Sep 19 by Adrian Lowcock (387 views)

Fixed Income was the best-selling asset class with £2.2 billion in net retail sales
UK funds experienced net retail outflows of £1.2 billion.

Gold Shines whilst Technology continues to perform

Published on 01 Aug 19 by Adrian Lowcock (448 views)

US and Technology rally extends into July
Gold funds top performance tables
UK Smaller companies disappoint as Brexit Uncertainty weighs

US economy hits longest phase of expansion in history: should investors be prepared for a downturn?

Published on 01 Aug 19 by Adrian Lowcock (529 views)

US economy grows for 121 month from June 2009
Longest period of economic growth for US on record, surpassing the 120-months of growth between March 1991 and March 2001
S&P 500 has delivered an annualized average of 16.87% for sterling investors

A third of retail investors have changed their portfolio in the last 12 months due to social media

Published on 01 Jul 19 by Adrian Lowcock (438 views)

New research from Willis Owen reveals 34% of UK retail investors have made at least one change to their investments over the past 12 months as a result of announcements made via social media channels. Some 9% claim to have made at least five investment changes because of this, and 2% have made more than 10.
read more

US tech and small cap the winners while Woodford wilts

Published on 01 Jul 19 by Adrian Lowcock (414 views)

US and Technology continue to lead in first half of 2019
Omnis Income and growth (formerly managed by Woodford) and WEIF the worst performing equity funds
Top ten performing funds are a mix of US, European and Russian equity portfolios

Woodford the worst since Brexit vote as UK investors miss out by “backing Britain”

Published on 21 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (576 views)

UK investors who have stuck rigidly to the UK since Britain voted to Brexit could have doubled their money by investing overseas, with equity funds focused on the UK – including Neil Woodford’s equity income offering – lagging far behind peers, according to research from Willis Owen.
read more

Equity Income funds: don’t throw the baby out with the bath water

Published on 19 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (608 views)

Top Ten Equity Income funds for income
Top Ten Equity Income funds for total return (growth & Income)
Five key characteristics of Equity Income funds

Research reveals extent of gender pension split

Published on 18 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (458 views)

41% of women without a pension plan have no intention to start saving into one
17% of people who are not saving into a pension plan don’t ever expect to stop working
35% of people claim to have stopped paying into a pension plan over the past 12 months

Latest Investment Association statistics reveal even ISA season cannot reverse outflows from the UK

Published on 06 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (451 views)

Net retail sales rose to £2bn for first time since April 2018
UK continues to remain unloved as Brexit drags on
Global equities remain top selling sector of 3rd consecutive month with £971m of sales

Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in May 2019

Published on 03 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (497 views)

UK index-linked gilts shine in May as investors turn cautious
Seven out of 10 top-performing funds are Government bond funds
China and Technology are worst-performing sectors as fortunes are reversed

The dogs fight back: the 2018 worst-performing UK funds with the biggest rebound revealed

Published on 03 Jun 19 by Adrian Lowcock (520 views)

Eight of the worst-performing UK funds of 2018 recovered by up to 19% this year1

Investing for 10 years generated a positive return 98% of the time

Published on 21 May 19 by Adrian Lowcock (491 views)

The FTSE 100 has given an average total return of 139.36% over 10-year periods
Three tips to becoming a long term investor include staying calm, remembering goals and adopting contrarian approach

UK adults would invest £35bn more a year if investment products were more transparent

Published on 01 May 19 by Adrian Lowcock (604 views)

Welsh adults are most deterred from investing by lack of clarity from investment management industry¹

Sell in May adage makes no sense for investors, Willis Owen says

Published on 25 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (489 views)

Analysis shows staying invested and reaping dividend rewards enhanced returns by 40% over last 33 summers

Fundsmith Equity is best-selling in closing stage of the ISA season

Published on 17 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (755 views)

Fundsmith Equity was the biggest selling fund on the Willis Owen investment platform in the last month of the 2018/19 ISA season¹
read more

Research reveals outperforming fund managers have seen their stars fade in new roles

Published on 15 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (460 views)

New analysis by Willis Owen reveals how star fund managers can underperform when they move into new roles.
read more

Early bird investors do catch the worm, Willis Owen research reveals

Published on 01 Apr 19 by Adrian Lowcock (500 views)

Willis Owen’s analysis of the FTSE 100 and the FTSE All Share since ISAs were launched 20 years ago on 6th April 1999 shows that investors who were quick to invest received a better return than those who left it until the last minute or saved regularly each month.
read more

Analysis by Willis Owen reveals actively-managed funds significantly outperform passives

Published on 21 Mar 19 by Adrian Lowcock (1,143 views)

Analysis shows only two index funds rank in top 50 performers over three and five years
read more

Willis Owen welcomes exit fee ban

Published on 14 Mar 19 by Adrian Lowcock (645 views)

Exit fees have been an ongoing problem for investors, trapping them in services they no longer want or need.
read more

Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in February 2019

Published on 01 Mar 19 by Adrian Lowcock (913 views)

US Smaller Companies continue to lead rally for second month in a row having been worst performer in December
Brazilian and Latin American funds drop into worst-performing funds having been best performers in January

UK smaller companies, global and emerging markets offer great JISA potential

Published on 22 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (743 views)

The strong long-term prospects for the UK Smaller Companies, Global and Emerging Market equity sectors make them attractive themes for investment in junior individual savings accounts (JISAs), according to Willis Owen, the online investment service provider.
read more

ISA investors in UK stocks could have made £162,349 return over last 20 years, Willis Owen says

Published on 21 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (998 views)

Best-performing ISA fund has made 2,448% return
China/Greater China sector has delivered 771.8%

ISA ideas 2019

Published on 13 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (592 views)

The UK, Japan and emerging markets are three attractive themes for investors to consider in the current ISA season, according to Adrian Lowcock, Head of Personal Investing at Willis Owen, the online investment service provider.
read more

Research reveals star fund managers really do make a difference

Published on 11 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (686 views)

Willis Owen analysis¹ of 15 investment funds who had star fund managers leave at some stage between 2013 and 2017 reveals the level of out-performance dropped dramatically after their departure.
read more

Latest IA statistics reveal a slump in fund sales as investors avoid volatile and risky markets.

Published on 07 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (689 views)

Net retail sales plummet to £17bn in 2018, compared to £48bn in 2017
Brexit concerns lead to £4.8bn net outflows in 2018
Global equities were most popular in 2018

ISA investors defy Brexit uncertainty to buy British in January, Willis Owen data reveals

Published on 06 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (813 views)

With the ISA season now underway, UK assets featured strongly in the best-selling funds and sectors on the Willis Owen platform in January.
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Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in January 2019

Published on 01 Feb 19 by Adrian Lowcock (1,531 views)

Indian equity funds take all 10 spots in worst-performing list
US Smaller Companies led an equity rebound in January, having been worst performer in December
Brazilian and Latin American funds take half the best performing slots

Financial advice gap set to get worse as more IFAs look to leave the industry

Published on 14 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (819 views)

New research(1) from Willis Owen, the leading UK online investment platform, reveals that 17% of IFAs and wealth managers are looking to leave the industry over the next three years
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Give your finances a January Detox

Published on 07 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (828 views)

Adrian Lowcock, Head of Personal Investing, Willis Owen offers seven tips for detoxing your finances this January
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Retail investors complain of lack of clarity from the investment management industry

Published on 04 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (807 views)

Retail investors complain of lack of clarity from the investment management industry
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Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in December 2018

Published on 03 Jan 19 by Adrian Lowcock (750 views)

Gold funds offer investor protection in a disappointing December
Gilts and bonds account for seven of the 10 best-performing sectors
US Smaller companies takes “honours” for worst performing sector in December

Five financial gifts for children at Christmas

Published on 17 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (772 views)

“Every Christmas, we add to the pile of toys in our children’s bedrooms and whilst it is great to see their excitement on Christmas Day, sadly the novelty soon wears off. A financial gift is unlikely to have the same response on the day but unlike other presents, these are gifts that are likely to be more enduring and could be worth much more in the future.”
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Willis Owen shares the best and worst-performing sectors and funds in 2018

Published on 10 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,015 views)

Technology stocks drive markets in 2018
Half of the worst performing funds are gold funds
European smaller companies tops the list as worst performing sector.

Willis Owen says ‘Brexit hysteria’ means UK equities are undervalued

Published on 05 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,020 views)

Willis Owen believes concerns around Brexit mean that from a long-term perspective, UK equities are undervalued.
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One in five JISA accounts to top £40,000

Published on 04 Dec 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,082 views)

New research(1) amongst people saving or investing into Junior ISAs (JISAs), reveals 19% expect the funds to be worth over £40,000 by the time the children they have been opened for reach 18.
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Japan and Emerging Market equities offer best value for 2019, says Willis Owen

Published on 30 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (805 views)

Japan and Emerging Markets (EMs) offer equity investors the best value for 2019, while UK shares are also cheap for those prepared to ride out the Brexit storm, according to Willis Owen, the leading online investment platform.
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Willis Owen shares three investment trusts on big discounts for Black Friday

Published on 23 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (798 views)

Real Estate has been one of the hardest hit following Westminster’s damning response to Theresa May’s Brexit agreement.
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The Santa Rally is unlikely to bring investors joy this year

Published on 23 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (795 views)

Financial markets have many sayings and trends. Investors are always looking for patterns in all the market and economic data to gain a competitive advantage and boost their investment returns.
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Black Friday – How to invest for the online retail revolution

Published on 16 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,005 views)

Black friday has firmly established itself in the retail calendar both in the UK and the US. Whilst some fear its arrival others are eager to grab big bargains that may be on offer.
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Nearly half of UK JISA investors are saving for higher education

Published on 14 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (886 views)

Almost half (47%) of those saving into a JISA for a child or relative hope the money will go towards paying for university or higher education, a new survey from Willis Owen reveals.
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80% of JISA investors keep kids and young adults ‘in the dark’ over savings

Published on 14 Nov 18 by Adrian Lowcock (2,138 views)

Over four in five (82%) parents and relatives have been investing in JISAs for children or young relatives since they were less than five years of age. However, 80% plan to wait until their recipients are 16 or over before telling them they have money invested, a new survey(1) by Willis Owen reveals.
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Willis Owen provides reaction to the 2018 Budget and explains the impact for savers and investors

Published on 29 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (780 views)

In their manifesto, the Tories pledged to increase the income tax personal allowance to £12,500 by and the point at which individuals start paying higher rate income tax to £50,000 by 2020/21.
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Emerging Market sentiment ‘improving’ according to Willis Owen confidence survey

Published on 23 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,007 views)

Willis Owen’s latest survey of almost 1000 investors has revealed that over a third (38%) plan to increase their exposure to Asia and emerging markets over the next six months.
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Nearly one in five investors expect the UK stock market to fall by over 10% in the next six months

Published on 23 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (854 views)

Research(1) from Willis Owen amongst nearly 1,000 UK retail investors reveals that 17% expect the UK stock market to fall by over 10% between now and April 2019; 6% anticipate a correction of more than 15%.
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Analysis shows absolute return funds only provide short-term defence against volatility

Published on 12 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (746 views)

Recent volatility on global financial market may have spurred investors to consider taking refuge in absolute return funds.
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Best and worst-performing sectors and funds in September 2018

Published on 01 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,382 views)

Indian funds make up nine out 10 worst-performing funds
Oil rally helps Russian funds become best performers
Japan leads the best-performing sectors

7 Ways to celebrate Financial Planning Week

Published on 01 Oct 18 by Adrian Lowcock (873 views)

Financial Planning week runs from the 3rd - 10th October this year. The annual campaign is organised to help people improve and be more mindful of their personal finances. Financial health can be a complex issue for some individuals, although for the majority there are small, everyday things that we can all do to improve our finances. Adrian Lowcock, heading personal investing, Willis Owen gives some tips.
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Willis Owen shares Fund picks for Ethical investment week

Published on 24 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,823 views)

Good Money Week begins on Saturday 29th September
Ethical indices have beat their non-ethical peers over 10 years
Willis Owen shares ethical investment ideas and fund picks

Truth of ‘Sell in May’ adage set to return

Published on 14 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,233 views)

The traditional adage ‘Sell in May and go away, don’t come back until St Leger’s Day’ is on course to come true this summer for the first time in three years, according to new analysis by Willis Owen, the online investment platform.
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S&P 500 hits longest bull-run in history

Published on 14 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (2,299 views)

UK investors see returns of more than 400%
Current bull market has only provided the seventh best annualised returns out of 11 since World War II
Best & Worst performing US funds during the bull market

10 Years after Lehman’s

Published on 12 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (2,214 views)

7 out of 10 worst performing funds invest in commodities
Technology sector has led the bull market
Japanese, US, UK and European Smaller Companies all performed strongly after the crisis

Best and worst-performing sectors and funds in August 2018

Published on 01 Sep 18 by Adrian Lowcock (1,203 views)

American Smaller Companies is best-performing sector in August
European fund is best performer in August
Emerging Market Bonds lead worst-performing sectors as Turkey weighs

The Care ISA is an ill-thought-out idea

Published on 21 Aug 18 by Adrian Lowcock (935 views)

The Care ISA is an ill-thought-out idea. It will do very little to help the majority of people who need care in their old age
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