Sat, 19 Jul 2025

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 Are we willing to drop cash Isas and take more risks with our money?

Experts have questioned Rachel Reeves' plan to encourage investors with a campaign in the style of "Tell Sid".

* Women are less likely to invest than men, with only 23% of women having a stocks and shares Isa compared to 34% of men.
* Financial experts say the Chancellor's plan needs to focus on making investing more attractive to women by using non-jargon language and imagery that appeals to them.
* Many people who have taken control of their finances after divorce or separation report feeling overwhelmed by the process of investing.
* A group of investors, including a 71-year-old woman, say they wish investing was a topic discussed openly among friends rather than being seen as private and intimidating.
* Experts warn that the Chancellor's plan to shift £300bn from cash savings accounts into stocks and shares Isas could be counterproductive if people are not financially prepared for investment risks.
* The Chancellor has announced new adverts and messages will be sent by banks to encourage people to invest, but experts say this needs to be more than a "token effort" and that there needs to be widespread coverage and enthusiasm.
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