A word from the office - June edition

Whether you’ve just started earning in Gloucestershire or you're still figuring out how money even works (we get it), here’s one thing you should know: the earlier you start financial planning, the better off your future self will be. And no, you don’t need loads of cash or a finance degree to get going with financial planning in Gloucestershire.

So, What Is Investing?

Basically, investing is putting your money into things like company shares (stocks), funds, or bonds to (hopefully) grow it over time. It’s not the same as saving, your money can go up and down—but over the long run, investing is a key part of solid financial planning in Gloucestershire, helping you build wealth more effectively.

Why Time Is Your Secret Weapon

Here’s where it gets good: the earlier you start financial planning and investing in Gloucestershire, the more time your money has to grow, thanks to something called compound growth. That’s when your money earns returns… and those returns earn more returns. Like a snowball getting bigger the longer it rolls, a well-thought-out financial planning strategy in Gloucestershire can grow steadily over time.

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Why It Makes Sense to Start Young

• You’ve got time on your side: More years = more chances to bounce back from market dips.
• You don’t need loads: Apps now let you invest with just a few quid.
• It builds a great habit: Future you will be so glad you started now.

How to Get Started (It’s Easier Than You Think)

1. Open a Stocks & Shares ISA This is a tax-free way to invest in the UK. You can put in up to £20k a year (but starting with £20 a month is totally fine too). 
2. Set it and forget it Try setting up a direct debit that invests a bit every month. That way, it becomes a habit without needing to think about it. 
3. Stay chill when markets wobble Prices go up and down, totally normal. The key is to leave your money in and think long term.

Common Myths to Ignore

• “I need loads of money to start” Nope. You can start investing with as little as £1 on some apps.
• “Investing is only for rich people or experts” Not anymore. It’s never been more accessible, and starting small is totally fine.
• “I’ l just do it later” Sure, but waiting means you miss out on years of potential growth. Starting early gives you a massive head start.

Start Now, Even If It’s Small

You don’t need to be rich, clever with numbers, or obsessed with the stock market. Just start. Start small. Start now. Time is the most powerful tool you have.

The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The information contained is correct as at the date of the article. The information contained does not constitute investment advice and is not intended to state, indicate or imply that current or past results are indicative of future results or expectations. Where the opinions of third parties are offered, these may not necessarily reflect those of St. James's Place.

Further Insights

If you’re interested to read further, we also have more useful information on our website which can be found here.

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Although the content of the article was correct at the time of writing, the accuracy of the information should not be relied upon, as it may have been subject to subsequent tax, legislative or event changes.