Sun, 11 Jan 2026

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 The FTSE 100 has hit a record high. Is now the time to start investing?

As the FTSE hits the 10,000 mark, the chancellor is encouraging more of us to become investors - but is it the right time?

* FTSE 100 climbs above 10,000 points for the first time since its creation in 1984.
* Index rose by more than a fifth in 2025, but many people still struggling with everyday costs and some stocks may be overvalued.
* Long-term investments can be lucrative, with shareholders receiving dividends as income or to reinvest.
* Cash savings are safer and more steady, with interest rates generally on the way down.
* Experts recommend having a cash buffer before investing.
* One in 10 people have no cash savings, and another 21% have less than £1,000 to draw on in an emergency.
* Chancellor Rachel Reeves advocates for risk-taking from consumers and is altering rules on tax-free Isas to encourage investing.
* Advertising campaign will promote investing, but some commentators warn of a potential AI tech bubble bursting.
* Bank of England warns of a "sharp correction" in the value of major tech companies.
* Regulator plans to allow banks to offer targeted support for customers considering investments.
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