The Investment Cuddle

This month the Cuddle looks at Financial Education, with a little help from secondary school pupils in years 7, 9 and 11. They let us know their thoughts on the world of money and financial education.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report - GOV.UK Financial Times Financial Literacy & Inclusion Campaign (FT FLIC) FT FLIC | Mastering your money Personal, Social, Health and Economic education (PSHE) https://pshe-association.org.uk/   Articles Young Enterprise - Huge steps forward for financial education and life skills in schools | Young Enterprise Just Finance Foundation - Financial Education In Primary Schools - Compulsory Citizenship Learning   Blazing Saddles (1974) - IMDb  

This month the Cuddle looks at Financial Education, outlining the UK Governments 2025 review, and how this links to the Financial Times Flic initiative.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report - GOV.UK Financial Times Financial Literacy & Inclusion Campaign (FT FLIC) FT FLIC | Mastering your money Personal, Social, Health and Economic education (PSHE) https://pshe-association.org.uk/   Articles Young Enterprise - Huge steps forward for financial education and life skills in schools | Young Enterprise Just Finance Foundation - Financial Education In Primary Schools - Compulsory Citizenship Learning  

This month the Cuddle looks at its income portfolio, paying homage to the Helen Pridham portfolio, and we talk through how our fund has changed in the last 12 months ready for 2026.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links AIC - https://www.theaic.co.uk Edison research - https://www.edisongroup.com   Articles 11 investment trusts for a £10,000 annual income Nine investment trusts to generate a £10,000 income in 2026 Nine investment trusts for a £10,000 income in 2025   Domestic Base The City of London Investment Trust plc (CTY) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/the-city-of-london-investment-trust-plc/ Diverse Income Trust (DIVI) Premier Miton Group Merchants Trust (MRCH) The Merchants Trust PLC - MRCH   Global Income Murray International Trust (MYI) https://www.murray-intl.co.uk Henderson High Income Trust plc (HHI) Henderson High Income Trust | Janus Henderson Investment Trusts   Specialist Trusts The North American Income Trust plc (NAIT) The North American Income Trust plc | Janus Henderson Investment Trusts The European Smaller Companies Trusts (ESCT) The European Smaller Companies Trust plc | Janus Henderson Investment Trusts Blackrock Energy and Resources Income Trust (BERI) www.blackrock.com/uk/individual/products/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-energy-and-resources-income-trust/trust-information BlackRock Frontiers Investment Trust plc (BRFI) https://www.blackrock.com/uk/solutions/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-frontiers-investment-trust/performance-holdings CC Japan Income & Growth Trust plc (CCJI) https://ccjapanincomeandgrowthtrust.com  

This month the Cuddle covers what went on in the markets in 2025, looking at indexes and individual sectors.  We talk through how our portfolio performed and review our best and worst performers and what to expect in 2026. Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links CC Japan Income & Growth Trust plc (CCJI) https://ccjapanincomeandgrowthtrust.com Murray International Trust (MYI) https://www.murray-intl.co.uk Blackrock Energy and Resources Income Trust (BERI) www.blackrock.com/uk/individual/products/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-energy-and-resources-income-trust/trust-information BlackRock Frontiers Investment Trust plc (BRFI) https://www.blackrock.com/uk/solutions/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-frontiers-investment-trust/performance-holdings Henderson High Income Trust plc (HHI) Henderson High Income Trust | Janus Henderson Investment Trusts The North American Income Trust plc (NAIT) The North American Income Trust plc | Janus Henderson Investment Trusts   Index and sector performance Sector Screener: a review of 2025 and look ahead to 2026    

This month the Cuddle covers its Christmas Crackers, looking at the previous two years with the best winners and losers!  We talk through how these Christmas cracker gifts have performed.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Christmas Cracker Gifts 2023 Analogue Devices (ADI) Investor Relations - Analog Devices Andrada Mining (ATM.L) Andrada Mining | Investors The Buckle, Inc (BKE) The Buckle, Inc. - Investor Overview Hanesbrands Inc. (HBI) Hanesbrands, Inc. - Investors - Investor Relations Home | Hanesbrands Inc. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) Investor Relations :: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) (nclhltd.com) Tharisa plc (THS.L) Investment Overview | Tharisa   Christmas Cracker Gifts 2024 Japan Gold Corp. (JG) Corporate PureCycle Technologies (PCT) PureCycle Technologies, Inc. (PCT) Microstrategy (MSTR) Explore MicroStrategy's Investor Relations: Stay Informed on Financial Performance and Corporate Governance Pan African Resources (PAF) Pan African Resources: Home 3M Company (MMM) 3M Company (MMM) On Holdings (OnOn) On - Home    

This month the Cuddle looks at the FIRE movement.  We talk through the different resources available to further understand Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) including a book review to inspire your journey.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links US Mr. Money Mustache (Pete Adeney) - Mr. Money Mustache — Early Retirement through Badassity Choose FI Podcast: Hosted by Jonathan Mendonsa and Brad Barrett, ChooseFI - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Tanja Hester: Author of Work Optional – ISBN-13 978-0316450898 UK The Escape Artist (Barney Whiter) - Start here | The Escape Artist Monevator - Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE): my journey from first steps to leaving work - Monevator Ken Okoroafor (The Humble Penny) - Home - The Humble Penny  Europe Retire in Progress (Switzerland) - Retire In Progress - Switzerland Nordic FIRE - FIRE Europe - Financial Independence Retire Early for Europeans  Rest of the World Canada: Raptitude (David Cain) - About Raptitude Australia: The Aussie FIREbug podcast - Podcast - Aussie Firebug Singapore & Hong Kong – Fat FIRE - F.I.R.E. in Singapore: Navigating the Path to Early Retirement | Media OutReach Newswire APAC   Podcasts Afford Anything Paula Pant - Home - Afford Anything The Mad Scientist Podcast Brandon (Mad Scientist) - The Mad Scientist Podcast FIRE Drill Podcast Gwen & J Women - Fire Drill | Podcast on Spotify The Humble Penny Podcast Ken & Mary Okoroafor - The Humble Penny | Podcast on Spotify   Books Your Money or Your Life Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez – ISBN-13 9780143115762 Financial Freedom Grant Sabatier – ISBN-13 978-0525534587 The Simple Path to Wealth JL Collins - ISBN-13‎ 979-8893310474 Quit Like a Millionaire Kristy Shen & Bryce Leung – ISBN-13 9781529407204 Set for Life Scott Trench – ISBN-13 9781947200807 Playing with FIRE Scott Rieckens – ISBN-13 9781608685806 From Zero to Financial Independence in Less Than 10 Years Robert Tracey – ISBN-13 978-1541095670  

This month the Cuddle looks at the FIRE movement.  We talk through the different flavours of Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) including rules to live by through your journey.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Financial Freedom Documentary | Playing With FIRE Investopedia FIRE Explained: Financial Independence, Retire Early – Rules, Types & Planning The Rule of Twenty Five What is the 25x retirement rule and does it work? | MoneyWeek   Four Percent Rule https://www.fidelity.co.uk/markets-insights/personal-finance/saving-for-retirement/the-4-percent-rule-the-basics/   Retirement Stats Moneywise Here’s why more Americans are retiring earlier than ever before — even if they don’t want to. Is it your turn to hang it up in 2025? Gallop More in U.S. Retiring, or Planning to Retire, Later  

This month the Cuddle looks at an update on investment alternatives to Terry.  We talk through more potential alternatives and how our previous funds have performed over the last three years.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Funds to outperform over the next 10 years (Update) GuardCap Global Equity: GuardCap Global Equity Fund I GBP Acc|IE00BVSS1C10 (morningstar.co.uk), GuardCap Global Equity I GBP Price & Performance | Bestinvest Stonehage Fleming Global Best Ideas: Stonehage Fleming Global Best Ideas Equity (D) Income Fund Price & Information (hl.co.uk) Seilern World Growth: Seilern World Growth GBP U R|IE00B2NXKV01 (morningstar.co.uk) Additional alternative funds that may outperform the baseline over the next 8 to 10 years Evenlode Global Equity: IFSL Evenlode Global Equity F GBP Accumulation, GB00BMFX1P94:GBX charts - FT.com Seilern World Growth: Seilern World Growth GBP U R|IE00B2NXKV01 (morningstar.co.uk) Jupiter India Fund OEIC: Jupiter India Fund J GBP Acc, GB00BJJQ5G28:GBP performance - FT.com Artemis Global Income Fund: Artemis Global Income Fund I Acc, GB00B5ZX1M70:GBP summary - FT.com Fidelity Global Technology Fund: Fidelity Funds - Global Technology Fund I-Acc-GBP, LU2786262373:GBP charts - FT.com  

This month the Cuddle takes another look at the OEIC investment riddle, looking at investment alternatives to Terry.  We talk through potential alternatives and how they have performed over the last five years and what they may provide in returns over the next decade.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Funds that have Outperformed over the last 5 years Artemis UK Select: https://www.artemisfunds.com/en/gbr/investor/funds/explorer/artemis-uk-select-fund/class-i-accumulation-units-gbp Fidelity Special Situations: https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/GB00B88V3X40-fidelity-special-situations-w-acc/key-statistics TM RWC RedWheel UK Equity Income: https://www.redwheel.com/uk/en/professional/product-page/tm-redwheel-uk-equity-income-fund_tmei/#   Funds to outperform over the next 10 years GuardCap Global Equity: GuardCap Global Equity Fund I GBP Acc|IE00BVSS1C10 (morningstar.co.uk), GuardCap Global Equity I GBP Price & Performance | Bestinvest Stonehage Fleming Global Best Ideas: Stonehage Fleming Global Best Ideas Equity (D) Income Fund Price & Information (hl.co.uk) Seilern World Growth: Seilern World Growth GBP U R|IE00B2NXKV01 (morningstar.co.uk)    

This month the Cuddle covers its Christmas Crackers, looking at the different types of companies within our cuddle crackers.  We talk through how last year’s Christmas cracker gifts performed and whether to keep or exchange this year’s gifts!   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Christmas Cracker Gifts 2024 Japan Gold Corp. (JG) Corporate PureCycle Technologies (PCT) PureCycle Technologies, Inc. (PCT) Microstrategy (MSTR) Explore MicroStrategy's Investor Relations: Stay Informed on Financial Performance and Corporate Governance Pan African Resources (PAF) Pan African Resources: Home 3M Company (MMM) 3M Company (MMM) On Holdings (OnOn) On - Home     Christmas Cracker Gifts 2023 Analogue Devices (ADI) Investor Relations - Analog Devices Andrada Mining (ATM.L) Andrada Mining | Investors The Buckle, Inc (BKE) The Buckle, Inc. - Investor Overview Hanesbrands Inc. (HBI) Hanesbrands, Inc. - Investors - Investor Relations Home | Hanesbrands Inc. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) Investor Relations :: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) (nclhltd.com) Tharisa plc (THS.L) Investment Overview | Tharisa  

This month the Cuddle covers income portfolios, looking at and paying homage to the Helen Pridham portfolio.  We talk through how it is structured and how it has performed.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Helen Pridham Investment portfolio for £10k income 2020 https://www.ii.co.uk/analysis-commentary/11-investment-trusts-ps10000-annual-income-ii510420   Additional Links https://www.ii.co.uk/authors/helen-pridham 2019 https://www.ii.co.uk/analysis-commentary/how-make-ps10000-investment-trusts-2019-ii507709 2021 https://www.ii.co.uk/analysis-commentary/12-fund-picks-ps10000-income-2021-ii514990 2022 https://www.ii.co.uk/analysis-commentary/11-investment-trusts-earn-ps10000-income-2022-ii522668 2023 https://www.ii.co.uk/analysis-commentary/12-investment-trusts-ps10000-annual-income-2023-ii526750  

This month the Cuddle covers dividends, looking at Asia.  We talk through whether Asian companies good for dividends and options for longer-term dividend and capital growth.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Data www.justETF.com/uk/ www.theaic.co.uk   S&P UK High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/indices/dividends-factors/sp-uk-high-yield-dividend-aristocrats-index/#overview   S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/indices/dividends-factors/sp-500-dividend-aristocrats/#overview   iShares plc - iShares MSCI AC Far East ex-Japan UCITS ETF https://www.fundinfo.com/en/GB-priv/fund?OFST020000=IE00BKPX3K41   SPDR S&P Pan Asia Dividend Aristocrats UCITS ETF (PADV) https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/IE00B9KNR336-ssga-spdr-etfs-europe-i-plc/performance   Schroder Oriental Income Fund Limited (SOI) https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/GB00B0CRWN59-schroder-oriental-income-fund-ltd/fidelity-insight   abrdn Asian Income Fund Limited (AAIF) https://www.asian-income.co.uk   Henderson Far East Income Limited (HFEL) https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/JE00B1GXH751-henderson-far-east-income-ltd/key-statistics  

This month the Cuddle covers dividends, looking at small companies.  We talk through whether UK small companies are good for dividends and longer-term dividend and capital growth.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Data www.justETF.com/uk/ www.theaic.co.uk   City Of London (CTY) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/the-city-of-london-investment-trust-plc/ Athelney Trust (ATY) https://www.athelneytrust.co.uk/performance/ Aberforth Smaller Companies Trust plc (ASL) https://www.aberforth.co.uk/trusts-and-funds/aberforth-smaller-companies-trust-plc/share-price-performance BlackRock Smaller Companies Trust plc https://www.blackrock.com/uk/solutions/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-smaller-companies-investment-trust/trust-information The Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust plc https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/uk-investment-trusts/trust/the-henderson-smaller-companies-investment-trust-plc/  

This month the Cuddle covers dividends, looking at the UK market.  We talk through whether the UK is good for stable dividends and longer-term dividend growth.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Data www.justETF.com/uk/ www.theaic.co.uk   iShares Core FTSE 100 UCITS ETF https://www.ishares.com/uk/individual/en/products/251795/ishares-ftse-100-ucits-etf-inc-fund?switchLocale=y&siteEntryPassthrough=true   S&P UK High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/indices/dividends-factors/sp-uk-high-yield-dividend-aristocrats-index/#overview   S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/indices/dividends-factors/sp-500-dividend-aristocrats/#overview   City Of London (CTY) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/the-city-of-london-investment-trust-plc/ JPMorgan Claverhouse Trust (JCH) https://am.jpmorgan.com/gb/en/asset-management/adv/products/jpmorgan-claverhouse-investment-trust-plc-gb0003422184#for_professional%20clients Murray Income Trust (MUT) https://www.murray-income.co.uk/en-gb Finsbury Growth & Income Trust (FGT) https://www.finsburygt.com/ Diverse Income Trust (DIVI) https://www.diverseincometrust.com/  

This month the Cuddle covers dividends, looking at the US market.  We talk through whether the US is good for dividends and longer-term dividend growth.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links   Data www.justETF.com/uk/ www.theaic.co.uk   Invesco EQQQ Nasdaq-100 UCITS ETF Dist (EQQQ) https://www.invesco.com/uk/en/financial-products/etfs/invesco-eqqq-nasdaq-100-ucits-etf-dist.html   iShares Core S&P 500 ETF https://www.ishares.com/us/products/239726/ishares-core-sp-500-etf   S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/indices/dividends-factors/sp-500-dividend-aristocrats/#overview   North American Income Trust (NAI) https://www.northamericanincome.co.uk/en-gb   JPMorgan American Investment Trust (JAM) https://am.jpmorgan.com/gb/en/asset-management/per/products/jpmorgan-american-investment-trust-plc-gb00bkzgvh64#for_personal%20investors  

This month the Cuddle covers Defence, looking at the different types of funds including a few ETFs.  We talk through how to invest in this sector and review an alternative investment option.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Fidelity Select Defense and Aerospace Fund (FSDAX) FSDAX - Fidelity ® Select Defense and Aerospace Portfolio | Fidelity Investments iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA) iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF | ITA SPDR S&P Aerospace & Defense ETF (XAR) XAR: SPDR® S&P® Aerospace & Defense ETF (ssga.com) Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF (PPA) Invesco | Product Detail | Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF The City of London Investment Trust plc (CTY) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/the-city-of-london-investment-trust-plc/  

This month the Cuddle covers what went on in the markets in 2023, looking at indexes, bonds and individual companies.  We talk through how our portfolio performed and review our best and worst performers.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links CC Japan Income & Growth Trust plc (CCJI) https://ccjapanincomeandgrowthtrust.com BlackRock Frontiers Investment Trust plc (BRFI) https://www.blackrock.com/uk/solutions/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-frontiers-investment-trust/performance-holdings Henderson Diversified Income Trust plc (HDIV) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/henderson-diversified-income-trust-plc/ Murray International Trust (MYI) https://www.murray-intl.co.uk Henderson International Income Trust plc (HINT) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/henderson-international-income-trust-plc/ Blackrock Energy and Resources Income Trust (BERI) www.blackrock.com/uk/individual/products/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-energy-and-resources-income-trust/trust-information   Index and sector performance https://www.visualcapitalist.com/best-and-worst-performing-sectors-in-2023/  

This month the Cuddle covers its Christmas Crackers, looking at the different types of companies within our cuddle crackers.  We talk through whether to keep our gifts and whether that is all we wanted for Christmas!   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Christmas cracker Gifts Analogue Devices (ADI) Investor Relations - Analog Devices Andrada Mining (ATM.L) Andrada Mining | Investors The Buckle, Inc (BKE) The Buckle, Inc. - Investor Overview Hanesbrands Inc. (HBI) Hanesbrands, Inc. - Investors - Investor Relations Home | Hanesbrands Inc. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) Investor Relations :: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) (nclhltd.com) Tharisa plc (THS.L) Investment Overview | Tharisa  

This month the Cuddle covers Defence, looking at the different types of companies within the US and UK.  We talk through how to invest in this sector and review a few investment options.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Lockheed Martin – LMT, $108B Lockheed Martin Corp, LMT:NYQ profile - FT.com Boeing Co – BA, $123B Boeing Co, BA:NYQ summary - FT.com Raytheon Technologies Corporation – RTX, $109B RTX Corp, RTX:NYQ profile - FT.com BAE Systems plc – BA., $40B BAE Systems PLC, BA.:LSE summary - FT.com Northrop Grumman Corporation – NOC, $67B NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORP, NOC:NYQ summary - FT.com  

This month the Cuddle covers our visit to The Investment Company Showcase, the second year the Association of Investment Companies (AIC) have held their showcase event.  We talk through our best bits and cover the funds and managers that caught the eye.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Association of Investment Companies (AIC) https://www.theaic.co.uk The Investment Company Showcase 2023: https://www.theaic.co.uk/the-investment-company-showcase-2023 https://www.theaic.co.uk/the-investment-company-showcase-2023/mancy-room The big income panel Simon Gergel, Merchants Trust Rebecca Maclean, Dunedin Income Growth James de Uphaugh, Edinburgh Investment Trust Keynote speaker: Lawrence Burns of Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust: How small should you go? Roland Arnold, BlackRock Smaller Companies Jean Roche, Schroder UK Mid Cap Fund Gervais Williams, Miton UK MicroCap Trust & Diverse Income Trust https://www.theaic.co.uk/the-investment-company-showcase-2023/avize-room It’s all about the dividends: Gervais Williams of Diverse Income Trust Infrastructure - Built to last Chris Morgan, International Public Partnerships Edward Hunt, HICL Infrastructure Steve Cook, Sequoia Economic Infrastructure Income   Keynote speaker: Nick Robinson, Presenter, The Today Programme        

This month the Cuddle the OEIC investment riddle continues, looking at investment alternatives to Terry.  We talk through potential alternatives and how they have performed over the last five years and what they may provide in returns over the next decade.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Funds that have Outperformed over the last 5 years Artemis UK Select: https://www.artemisfunds.com/en/gbr/investor/funds/explorer/artemis-uk-select-fund/class-i-accumulation-units-gbp Fidelity Special Situations: https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/GB00B88V3X40-fidelity-special-situations-w-acc/key-statistics TM RWC RedWheel UK Equity Income: https://www.redwheel.com/uk/en/professional/product-page/tm-redwheel-uk-equity-income-fund_tmei/#   Funds to outperform over the next 10 years GuardCap Global Equity: GuardCap Global Equity Fund I GBP Acc|IE00BVSS1C10 (morningstar.co.uk), GuardCap Global Equity I GBP Price & Performance | Bestinvest Stonehage Fleming Global Best Ideas: Stonehage Fleming Global Best Ideas Equity (D) Income Fund Price & Information (hl.co.uk) Seilern World Growth: Seilern World Growth GBP U R|IE00B2NXKV01 (morningstar.co.uk)  

This month the Cuddle covers the OEIC investment riddle, looking at investment alternatives to Terry.  We talk through alternatives with a similar philosophy and how to create your own strategy.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Fundsmith https://www.fundsmith.co.uk/factsheet/ BlueWhale https://bluewhale.co.uk/factsheet  

This month the Cuddle covers non-renewable energy, looking at the different types of fossil fuel energy companies and funds.  We talk through how to invest in this sector with a few investment options.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Harmony Energy Income Trust plc – HEIT - https://www.heitp.co.uk Blackrock Energy & Resources Income (BERI) - https://www.blackrock.com/uk/solutions/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-energy-and-resources-income-trust/performance-holdings Oil & Gas Companies BP - https://www.bp.com/en/global/corporate/news-and-insights/reimagining-energy/4q-and-full-year-2022-results-highlights.html Shell - https://www.shell.com/investors/why-invest-in-shell.html Exxon - https://investor.exxonmobil.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1143/exxonmobil-announces-first-quarter-2023-results CNQ - https://www.cnrl.com/investors/investor-relations/#none  

This month the Cuddle covers renewable energy, looking at the alternative to wind and solar.  We talk through how to invest in technologies such as Fuels, Fuel cells, Energy storage, Hydrogen within the renewables sector and review a few investment options.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Shares – Fuel Cells & Electrolysers Fuelcell Energy Inc – FCEL https://www.fuelcellenergy.com Ceres Power – CWR https://www.ceres.tech/investors/ Plug Power – PLUG https://www.plugpower.com/fuel-cell-power/ ITM Power plc – ITM – electrolysers https://itm-power.com Funds - Hydrogen Legal & General ETF, Hydrogen Economy UCITS ETF USD (GBP) – HTWG https://fundcentres.lgim.com/en/uk/institutional/fund-centre/ETF/Hydrogen-Economy/ VanEck Investments Ltd, Hydrogen Economy UCITS ETF Acc – HDRO https://www.vaneck.com/uk/en/hdro/overview/ HydrogenOne Capital Growth plc – HGEN https://hydrogenonecapitalgrowthplc.com   Funds - Energy Storage Gresham House Energy Storage (GRID) https://greshamhouse.com/real-assets/new-energy/gresham-house-energy-storage-fund-plc/  

This month the Cuddle covers renewable energy, looking at the different types of wind energy funds.  We talk through how to invest in this technology within the sector and review a few investment options.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Greencoat UK Wind plc – UKW - https://www.greencoat-ukwind.com/disclaimer-country The Renewables Infrastructure Group Limited – TRIG  - https://www.trig-ltd.com WNDY Wind Energy ETF - https://www.globalxetfs.com/funds/wndy/ Global X ETF ICAV Wind Energy UCITS ETF Acc WNDG - https://www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/etf/snapshot/snapshot.aspx?id=0P0001OF8R Vestas Wind Systems AS – VWS - https://www.vestas.com/en/investor  

This month the Cuddle covers renewable energy, looking at the different types of solar energy funds.  We talk through how to invest in this technology within the sector and review a few investment options.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Bluefield Solar Income Fund Limited – BSIF https://bluefieldsif.com/investors/ Foresight Solar Fund Ltd – FSFL https://fsfl.foresightgroup.eu NextEnergy Solar Fund Ltd – NESF https://www.nextenergysolarfund.com News article - https://citywire.com/investment-trust-insider/news/nextenergy-solar-puts-assets-up-for-sale-to-raise-capital-buy-back-shares/a2415552?re=108593&ea=1099249&utm_source=BulkEmail_Investment+Trust+Insider+Weekend&utm_medium=BulkEmail_Investment+Trust+Insider+Weekend&utm_campaign=BulkEmail_Investment+Trust+Insider+Weekend US Solar Fund PLC – USFP (bid situation) https://www.ussolarfund.co.uk Global X Solar ETF – RAYS https://www.globalxetfs.com/funds/rays/  

This month the Cuddle covers renewable energy, looking at the different types of renewable energy funds.  We talk through how to invest in the sector and review more than a few investment funds.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links   Aquila European Renewables – AERS, https://www.aquila-european-renewables.com Downing Renewables & Infrastructure Trust plc – DORE, https://www.doretrust.com/investor-relations Ecofin US Renewables Infrastucture trust – RNEP, https://uk.ecofininvest.com/funds/ecofin-us-renewables-infrastructure-trust-plc/ VH Global Sustainable Energy Opportunities Plc – GSEO, https://www.vh-gseo.com/investors Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust plc – ORIT, https://octopusrenewablesinfrastructure.com Premier Miton Global Renewables Trust – PMGR, https://www.globalrenewablestrust.com Triple Point Energy Transition – TENT, https://www.tpenergytransition.com The Renewables Infrastructure Group Limited – TRIG, https://www.trig-ltd.com  

This month the Cuddle covers renewable energy, looking at the different types of energy generation.  We talk through technology within the sector and review a few technology challenges.   Music by https://audionautix.com  

This month the Cuddle covers what went on in the markets in 2022, looking at indexes, bonds and individual companies.  We talk through how our portfolio performed and review our best and worst performers.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Blackrock Energy and Resources Income Trust (BERI) www.blackrock.com/uk/individual/products/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-energy-and-resources-income-trust/trust-information Murray International Trust (MYI) https://www.murray-intl.co.uk Henderson International Income Trust plc (HINT) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/henderson-international-income-trust-plc/ European Assets Trust (EAT) https://www.columbiathreadneedle.co.uk/european-assets-trust/ Henderson Diversified Income Trust plc (HDIV) https://www.janushenderson.com/en-gb/investor/product/henderson-diversified-income-trust-plc/ VinaCapital Vietnam Opportunity Fund (VOF) https://vinacapital.com/investment-solutions/offshore-funds/vof/overview/  

This month the Cuddle covers precious metals, looking at the different opinions people have taken regarding the yellow metal.  We talk through the options for what to buy with a look at individual companies, ETFs and funds.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links ES Baker Steel Gold and Precious Metals, Class B, Accumulation (GBP) http://www.bakersteelcap.com/en/baker-steel-funds/ Golden Prospect Precious Metals Ltd, GPM https://ncim.co.uk/wp/golden-prospect-precious-metals-ltd/# iShares Physical Metals plc Physical Silver ETC, SSLN https://www.ishares.com/uk/individual/en/products/258443/ishares-physical-silver-etc-fund iShares Physical Metals plc Physical Gold USD ETC, IGLN https://www.ishares.com/uk/individual/en/products/258441/ishares-physical-gold-etc-fund Ninety One Global Gold, Class I, Accumulation (GBP) https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/GB00B1XFGM25-ninety-one-global-gold-fund/key-statistics Sylvania Platinum Ltd, SLP https://www.sylvaniaplatinum.com  

This month the Cuddle covers pensions, looking at the different types.  We talk through the options for what to buy with a look at pension transfers.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Defined benefit vs Defined contribution https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/032415/how-does-defined-benefit-pension-plan-differ-defined-contribution-plan.asp SIPP https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/self-invested-personal-pension-sipp.asp   IRA Individual Retirement Account (IRA) Definition (investopedia.com) Roth IRA Roth IRA Basics: How It Works and How to Get Started (investopedia.com) ISA Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs): Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Invest talk podcast https://kppfinancial.com/investTalk  

This month the Cuddle looks at inflation with a focus on what to buy in an inflationary environment.  We talk through some company examples and look more broadly at the sector they sit within.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links   Abbvie inc https://www.abbvie.com B&G Foods https://bgfoods.com British America Tobacco https://www.bat.com Shell https://www.shell.com Diversified Energy Company https://www.div.energy Polymetal https://polymetalinternational.com/en/  

This month the Cuddle looks at inflation with a focus on what to buy in an inflationary environment.  We talk through some example investment funds.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links AIC - https://www.theaic.co.uk

This month the Cuddle looks at information sources with a focus on the written word and data sources for shares and trading.  We talk through what information sources we use and why.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links FT - https://www.ft.com Share Magazine - https://www.sharesmagazine.co.uk Investors Chronicle – https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk Moneyweek - https://moneyweek.com   Internet Data Trustnet - https://www.trustnet.com Citywire - https://citywire.com/funds-insider Motley fool - https://www.fool.co.uk   Research AIC - https://www.theaic.co.uk Morning star - https://www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/ Edison research - https://www.edisongroup.com Quoted data - https://quoteddata.com   Stocks Stockopedia - https://www.stockopedia.com Share pad - https://www.sharescope.co.uk/sharepad.jsp Dividend Max. https://www.dividendmax.com  

This month the Cuddle looks at information sources with a focus on the written word and data sources for funds and ETFs.  We talk through what information sources we use and why.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links FT - https://www.ft.com Share Magazine - https://www.sharesmagazine.co.uk Investors Chronicle – https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk Moneyweek - https://moneyweek.com   Internet Data Trustnet - https://www.trustnet.com Citywire - https://citywire.com/funds-insider Motley fool - https://www.fool.co.uk   Research AIC - https://www.theaic.co.uk Morning star - https://www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/ Edison research - https://www.edisongroup.com Quoted data - https://quoteddata.com   Stocks Stockopedia - https://www.stockopedia.com Share pad - https://www.sharescope.co.uk/sharepad.jsp Dividend Max. https://www.dividendmax.com  

This month the Cuddle looks at our top 5 financial documentaries.  We talk through favourites with a look at a few that didn’t quite make the final cut.     Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links China Hussle - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55892jT06aI Trader - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5996252/ Niall Ferguson, The Ascent of Money - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XX2b2MeDe0 Enron - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1016268/ Money is debt - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1828247/  

This month the Cuddle covers dividend investment, looking at the tax implications for dividend payers in different jurisdictions.  We talk through how to avoid paying unnecessary tax on dividends.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links https://www.dividendmax.com  

This month the Cuddle covers dividend investment, looking at the difference between share and fund dividend payers.  We talk through OEICs, investment trusts and bonds with a look at payment intervals.

This month the Cuddle covers investment fund names, looking at the different types.  We talk through the options for what to buy with a look at why your platform might be influencing your options and annual fees.     Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Fundsmith https://www.fundsmith.co.uk/factsheet/ BlueWhale https://bluewhale.co.uk/factsheet  

This month the Cuddle takes a lighter approach with a look at some of our favourite music related to money and finance.  We will be back in the New Year with some more financial focussed content, enjoy the holidays wherever you find yourself.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Universal Robot Band - Barely Breaking Even Abba - Money, Money, Money John Rich - Shuttin' Detroit Down Shirley Bassey - Big Spender Craig Morgan - Almost Home Beatles - Taxman Ronnie Dunn - Cost of Living Bobbie Gentry - Fancy The flying lizards - Money Willie Nelson - If You've Got the Money I've Got the Time Aloe Blacc - I Need a Dollar   The Investment Cuddle Playlist (Spotify) https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1OLg43NBSrBEGT5DiPQP33?si=hwi_7tRpTgqggUVtOMj_hw&utm_source=native-share-menu

This month the Cuddle covers the second part of its look at pensions, including when to start.  We talk through the options for retirement with a look at why you might want to reassess your pension to spread the risk in retirement.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links How has life expectancy changed over time? https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/lifeexpectancies/articles/howhaslifeexpectancychangedovertime/2015-09-09   COVID-19 - The long view, History suggests that this pandemic will be a short-term interruption to long-run improvements in life expectancy, which should resume within a few years. https://www.cam.ac.uk/stories/covid19-the-long-view  

This month the Cuddle covers the first part of our pensions episodes, looking at the different types.  We talk through the options for do it yourself pensions with a look at why you might want to reassess your contributions and those of your dependents.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Defined benefit vs Defined contribution https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/032415/how-does-defined-benefit-pension-plan-differ-defined-contribution-plan.asp SIPP https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/self-invested-personal-pension-sipp.asp  

This month the Cuddle covers ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) investing, looking at what is ESG and what is it not!  We talk through the ratings of companies within a range of sectors with a look at why you might want to be your own ESG investor.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links ESGS https://www.londonstockexchange.com/stock/ESGS/invesco/company-page L&G future world developed index https://www.legalandgeneral.com/consumer/fund-iframe/investments-productsandfunds-indextracker-fund-future-world-esg-developed-index-fund.jsp Vanguard ESG emerging market index https://www.vanguardinvestor.co.uk/investments/vanguard-esg-emerging-markets-all-cap-equity-index-fund-gbp-acc Aegon ethical equity fund https://www.aegonam.com/en/strategies--funds/equity/ethical-equity-fund/ FEET https://www.feetplc.co.uk Fundsmith Equity www.fundsmith.co.uk/fund-factsheet BNY Bank of New York Mellon Sustainable Real Return Fund https://www.bnymellonim.com/uk/en/intermediary/fund/bny-mellon-sustainable-real-return-fund-uk-domiciled-newton-institutional-shares-2-accumulation-gb00bd6drh93/ First state investors Asia focus https://www.firstsentierinvestors.com/uploadedFiles/Content/UploadedLiterature/auto/EMEA/pdffundfactsheets/GB00BWNGXJ86-First-State-Asia-Focus-Fund-B-GBP-en-gb.pdf Stewart investors Indian subcontinent fund https://www.stewartinvestors.com/uk/en/intermediary/our-funds/GB00B2PF5X11.html Jupiter ecology fund https://www.fidelity.co.uk/factsheet-data/factsheet/GB00B4KLC262-jupiter-ecology-i-class-acc/key-statistics Smarter Markets podcast https://www.smartermarketspod.com  

This month the Cuddle covers technology company investing, looking at UK technology companies.  We talk through the highs and lows of key companies within the US tech sector with a look at why you really need to be a longer-term investor.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Ceres power https://www.ceres.tech ITM power https://www.itm-power.com Marlborough Nano Cap Growth Fund https://citywire.co.uk/funds-insider/fund/marlborough-nano-cap-growth-fund/c450133 Venture Capital Trust https://www.theaic.co.uk/guide-to-investment-companies/vcts

This month the Cuddle covers technology company investing, looking at the US technology sector and beyond.  We talk through when, how and how not to invest in the sector with a look at what really constitutes a tech company.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links Nasdaq https://www.nasdaq.com/market-activity/index/comp XLK ETF https://www.morningstar.com/etfs/arcx/xlk/quote QQQ ETF https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/061715/what-qqq-etf.asp Love Actually (2003) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9Z3_ifFheQ InvestTalk https://kppfinancial.com/investtalk-podcast/

This month the Cuddle covers retail investing, looking at the stores we have lost on the high street and picking some of our favourites.  We talk through options for how to invest in the sector with a little look at commercial property investment funds.   Music by https://audionautix.com   Information links TR Property Investment Trust https://www.trproperty.com Aberdeen UK Property Fund https://www.aberdeenstandard.com/en/uk/adviser/fund-details/aberdeen-uk-property-fund/a-inc/gb00btlx1d00 BMO Commercial Property Trust https://www.bmogam.com/commercial-property-trust/  

This month the cuddle covers inflation with a little help from https://www.inflationarypressure.com. We outline the types of inflation measurements and whether inflation really matters anymore? Using inflationary pressure.com we look at RPI, CPI, compound interest, average earnings and compare these to council tax, food, automobiles, rail fares and clothing.   You can compare the charts for yourself at https://www.inflationarypressure.com or look out for the video on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3wVPbGt6B-UFnUPUk1jEAQ   Use the drop-down lists on the website to compare the following; CPI vs RPI 5% Compound Interest vs 7% Compound Interest Council Tax vs 5% Compound Interest Council Tax vs Average Earnings RPI vs Average Earnings RPI vs Total Food Inflation Average Earnings vs Buying a Car RPI vs Rail Fares Average Earnings vs Rail Fares RPI vs Children's Clothing Average Earnings vs Children’s Clothing  

This month the cuddle covers the second part of how to structure a portfolio. We outline the 100 year portfolio and how this differs to a single fund approach, thanks to Mr Terry Smith and highlight how too much diversification can damage your long-term goals. Information links: Chris Cole, 100-year portfolio https://taylorpearson.me/thedragon/ Terry Smith, fundsmith equity www.fundsmith.co.uk/fund-factsheet Turtle traders, Michael Covel,  www.trendfollowing.com/podcast/ BERI, www.blackrock.com/uk/individual/products/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-energy-and-resources-income-trust/trust-information

This month the cuddle covers how to structure a portfolio. We outline the traditional 60:40 portfolio, investment trust portfolio, single funds, and the 100 year portfolio. Information links: Helen Pridham articles https://www.ii.co.uk/authors/helen-pridham 100-year portfolio https://taylorpearson.me/thedragon/ Macrovoices podcast link https://www.macrovoices.com/832-macrovoices-215-chris-cole-dragon-portfolio-revisited-in-the-eye-of-the-storm

This month the cuddle covers success and failure in trading and investment.  We are joined by our producer and a guest who is currently trading out of Hong Kong, and get a view on the trials and tribulations, adventures and misadventures from retail traders and investors.