Lowes has helped thousands of people manage their investments, steering them to better returns as well as providing comfort and confidence in the face of markets’ natural behaviour, which is to be volatile.

Over those years, we have seen many people attempt to manage their investments on a DIY basis. There are plenty of media outlets and businesses out there that encourage people to invest for themselves. Most have a vested interest in doing so, through advertising or their own investment platform; some, unfortunately, are scams.

In our experience there are four main mistakes made by DIY investors.

Being too cautious: This investor doesn’t like taking risks so invests in a cash fund. With interest rates at their lowest ever levels, and inflation rates well above the majority of account deposit rates, cash loses its purchasing power year-on-year. While we advise holding some wealth in cash as a buffer/ for emergencies, cash investing is a negative wealth-building strategy.

Chasing performance: This investor buys high into strongly performing markets/sectors/funds expecting them to continue to do well, and when subsequently they fall, loses faith and sells out at the worst possible time, when the markets/sectors/funds are at their lowest.

Having eggs all in one basket: This investor puts all their wealth into one area, often one they are familiar with or have been told is a ‘sure thing’, and their wealth declines when, inevitably, that area suffers a downturn. Diversifying a portfolio is essential

Invest and forget: This investor, while initially active, over time fails to review the portfolio and finds their investments suffer as markets change.

We are not saying people should avoid self-investing entirely; it can be very satisfying to pick and choose investments and see them grow. But we recommend DIY investment is limited to a small amount of money you can afford to lose if things go wrong.

The value of investments and the income they produce can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.

If you have been self-investing, or know someone who is, and would like more information on how Lowes can help manage your portfolio, either contact your Lowes Consultant or call 0191 281 8811 to arrange a free initial consultation.