Published by AJ Bell
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Listen on Apple PodcastsIn this episode of the AJ Bell Money and Markets podcast, Danni Hewson rounds up the week’s market news, including updates on Tesla and Alphabet, and Martin Gamble asks Russ Mould whether we should be worried that the AI bubble is set to follow the path of the dotcom boom and bust. Charlene Young and Sarah Coles examine the growing political debate around social care reform and the options for paying for care. They discuss AJ Bell’s campaign for a Pensions Tax Lock to protect against the dangers of Budget speculation. They also delve into new data, including details of the gender tax gap, the latest twist in the dash for Cash ISAs, how holidays dominate our savings priorities, and an unexpected new shopping trend. [00:00] Bank of England interest rates decision [01:18] Intro [02:42] Tesla results [04:39] Alphabet Update [07:14] Market jitters [08:07] News on SK Hynix and CXMT [09:15] Apple valuation [12:36] World Cup boost for Unilever and Coca Cola [18:01] Interview: the AI bubble vs the dotcom boom and bust [41:51] Social care reform and planning for care costs [46:27] Call for a Pension Tax Lock to protect against Budget speculation [51:55] The narrowing of the gender tax gap [56:58] Bank of England savings figures [59:37] Holiday savings habits and financial priorities [01:03:09] Feta fatigue and reverse comfort eating
On this week’s episode of the AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast, Danni Hewson and Dan Coatsworth assess how Andy Burnham’s first few days as UK Prime Minister have been received by markets. They consider what the appointment of John Healey as Chancellor means for defence spending, and the row about how a VAT cut on domestic energy bills will be paid for. There’s been some good news on inflation for the new government but it’s likely to be short lived, and there’s pressure to cut employers’ National Insurance for under 25s. Rachel Vahey tackles the popular question: once you retire, do you dip into your ISA or pension first? Danni and Dan discuss why is Primark cutting prices ahead of being spun out of its parent company. James Flintoft, AJ Bell’s head of investment solutions, joins Dan to discuss the broader state of markets as the oil price climbs back above $90 dollars a barrel. Timestamps: Market reaction to Andy Burnham’s first few days as PM [02:16] Will the new Chancellor prioritise defence spending? [08:26} Lots of speculation about this year’s Budget [15:37] The latest on inflation [19:24] Rachel on dipping into an ISA or pension first [28:59] Why Primark is slashing prices [45:35] Takeovers galore [52:35] James talks to Dan about markets, oil prices and more [55:50]
This week on the AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast, Charlene Young and Danni Hewson unpack the latest developments in global markets, from oil price volatility and the Strait of Hormuz to US inflation, bank earnings and what it all means for interest rates. They also assess Rachel Reeves' latest Mansion House speech and the outlook for UK economic growth. Tom Sieber joins the show for a busy week of company news, with easyJet, Marks & Spencer, TikTok Shop, IBM, Barratt Redrow, PageGroup, Hays all making headlines. Plus, Charlene explores the fastest fall in mortgage rates for almost two years, reveals what the latest HMRC figures tell us about Britain's growing tax burden, and looks at where holidaymakers will get the most value from their spending money this summer. Topics covered [00:08] Introduction & market roundup [02:09] Strait of Hormuz, oil prices and global trade [10:41] US inflation, bank earnings and interest rates [13:41] Rachel Reeves' Mansion House speech [15:50] easyJet update [17:23] Marks & Spencer and TikTok Shop [23:14] Buy Now, Pay Later regulation changes [25:26] Shares magazine highlights with Tom Sieber [27:33] IBM results and tech spending trends [30:07] PayPal takeover approach [32:28] Barratt Redrow update and shareholder returns [35:23] Recruitment sector outlook: PageGroup & Hays [38:01] Paramount-Warner Bros deal challenges [40:10] Mortgage rates fall sharply [42:00] HMRC tax data and fiscal drag [46:43] Holiday spending money: where the pound goes furthest
Have you ever held Premium Bonds for years without winning a prize? You're not alone. In this week’s AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast, Dan Coatsworth and Charlene Young reveal fascinating insights into Premium Bonds and explain what millions of holders who have never won a prize could have earned elsewhere. They discuss the eye-watering increase in probate costs, a report branding student loans as ‘mis-sold’, and what Terry Smith’s latest shareholder letter could mean for investors in the Fundsmith Equity Fund. In the markets section, we cover Sky’s move for parts of ITV, the latest twist in EasyJet’s takeover story, and some intriguing developments at SpaceX. Dan also discusses the market sell-off as Donald Trump says the US/Iran peace deal is over. Finally, AJ Bell investment experts Ryan Hughes and James Flintoft join Hannah Williford for a lively debate on artificial intelligence, its investment potential, and whether the hype is justified. 0:00 Introduction 2:05 Premium Bonds: what millions of savers may be missing 5:19 Probate costs set for a dramatic rise 12:06 Student loans branded 'mis-sold' 18:11 Is Terry Smith reinventing Fundsmith Equity fund? 24:39 World Cup fever and the UK economy 26:34 Sky buys parts of ITV 30:06 EasyJet takeover speculation 31:59 Market sell-off as peace deal falls apart 33:45 This is what brokers are saying about SpaceX 36:20 AI investing debate
In this monthly special of the AJ Bell Investment Trust Show, Dan Coatsworth and Hannah Williford discuss some positive progress for the industry, while Eve Maddock-Jones and Martin Gamble explore a few cases of trust that are trading on a premium. Then, Dan speaks to HG Capital to discuss how the private equity trust is investing in the AI boom, followed by Hannah, who speaks with Rob Lloyd from JPM Asia Growth and Income on their approach to the AI sector, and what’s being overlooked. Finally, Dan gets the scoop on annual general meetings, and what investors might get out of them, with Temple Bar Investment Trust’s Charles Cade. [00:00] Introduction [01:29] Dan and Hannah speak about narrowing discounts in the investment trust industry [07:50] Eve and Martin discuss a group of trusts trusts trading on a premium [16:22] Dan interviews HG Capital on investing in AI in the private equity space [31:58] Hannah interviews JPM Asia Growth and Income on if AI can continue to grow returns in Asia, and what’s happened to India [50:55]]Dan speaks to Charles Cade from Temple Bar about what investors can get out of annual general meetings [1:00:50]Outro
In this episode of the AJ Bell Money and Markets podcast, Charlene Young and Sarah Coles discuss the dash for cash ISAs ahead of allowance changes, what Andy Burnham could mean for your money, the financial side of marriage amid rumours around Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, why July matters for the self-employed, and JISA performance data. Meanwhile, 16-year old Tilly joins them to share her perspective on what should be done about lost Child Trust Funds. Dan Coatsworth rounds up the week’s market news, including updates on Associated British Foods, Sainsbury’s and gold, and speaks to Paul Niven from F&C Investment Trust about what recent market movements mean for investors. [00:09] Intro [01:29] Associated British Foods results [02:48] Sainsburys Update [03:54] Gold loses its shine [05:03] Interview Paul Niven, manager of the F&C Investment Trust [12:43] What Andy Burnham’s approach means for your money [19:52] The dash for cash ISAs continues [24:02] July deadline for self-employed [27:12] Taylor Swift and the benefits of marriage [35:06] Tooth Fairy inflation [38:13] Junior ISA performance [42:14] Lost child trust funds
Political turmoil is shaking the UK as the nation awaits a new prime minister. Danni Hewson and Dan Coatsworth break down what an Andy Burnham victory could mean for markets, your investments and your money – plus the potential next Chancellor. We also cover falling oil prices, tech stock volatility, SpaceX’s wild IPO ride, and big moves from takeover target EasyJet. In personal finance, Rachel Vahey explains major tax-related changes to ISAs and plans for a new First Time Buyer ISA, while Ruffer’s Ian Rees joins us to debate whether the classic 60/40 portfolio still works. Burnham PM? Markets, chancellor contenders & your money [0:01:36] Oil plunges as US–Iran talks progress [0:12:31] Tech stocks hit – should you worry? [0:15:43] SpaceX IPO chaos: shares swing wildly [0:20:33] EasyJet rejects takeover bid [0:25:31] Cash ISA changes explained [0:30:46] New ISA for first-time buyers? [0:35:05] Is 60/40 dead? Ruffer's Ian Rees weighs in [0:38:08] Heatwave winners and losers: who is in the frame? [0:55:08]
In this month's special deep dive podcast, Tom Seiber and Hannah Williford explore how to invest around the world, and where there may be some hidden opportunities. They discuss the pros and cons of active and tracker funds for global exposure. Plus, Hannah speaks to AJ Bell's Paul Angell on what he prioritises when choosing active managers for different regions. Martin Gamble joins the duo to reveal his research on how different regions stack up on valuations, and Tom shares where AJ Bell investors are looking most frequently. Finally, Eve Maddock-Jones speaks to John Citron on the challenges and benefits of investing in emerging markets. Timestamps: [00:09] Introduction: Tom Sieber and Hannah Williford introduce the episode and explain why overseas investing matters for UK investors. [01:43] Global trackers, ETFs and active funds: how UK investors can access overseas markets, compare costs and indices, and understand how managers pick global stocks. [12:50] Interview with Paul Angell: the pros and cons of using fund managers who are based in the regions where they invest. [25:45] Comparing global markets with Martin Gamble: how different regions stack up on valuations, dividends and the types of companies that dominate each market. [31:32] Buying overseas shares directly: market opening hours, dealing access, minimum trade sizes and practical issues for UK investors. [39:15] Interview with John Citron: the challenges of managing an emerging markets portfolio across lots of different countries. [51:20] Final takeaways: Tom and Hannah recap the key lessons from the episode and wrap up the podcast.
In this week’s episode of the AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast, Charlene Young and Danni Hewson unpack the latest developments in the Middle East and what they mean for markets, oil prices and your everyday finances. They also dive into fresh UK inflation figures and what they could mean for interest rates in the second half of 2026. Danni takes a closer look at the blockbuster SpaceX IPO and why investors are piling in, Charlene runs through some eye-catching ‘trillionaire maths’ and reflects on 10 years since the Brexit vote. There’s a warning for motorists over the cost of spreading car insurance payments and Danni sits down with JP Morgan to find out what’s happening on the ground in Korea and other emerging markets. Plus, we bring you a teaser of a special series of video chats with Bill Ackman, CEO of Pershing Square. [00:08] Intro [01:26] Middle East impact on markets and oil [06:30] UK inflation update and interest rate expectations [16:42] Pizza Hut sale [22:04] SpaceX IPO review [36:07] Bill Ackman [37:57] Brexit vote – 10 years on [42:34] Which? warning on car insurance [45:28] Interview – Emily Whiting, investment specialist at JP Morgan
In this week's episode, Tom Sieber and Charlene Young digest the latest market developments from both sides of the Atlantic, with the company behind ChatGPT unveiling IPO plans, GSK unveiling its biggest deal in a decade and a UK market stalwart getting snapped up. Plus, as the World Cup gets underway, Tom discusses the winners off the pitch. Charlene talks us through changes to inheritance rules which could affect cohabiting couples and the things people should think about when passing on wealth to family and dependents. Tom reveals what readers of the latest free monthly Shares magazine can expect including the next phase of the AI story and how Netflix is looking to grow after missing out on acquiring Warner Bros. Finally, Charlene discusses plans to broaden access to mortgages in the UK and what they might mean for the property market and Tom and Charlene discuss some interesting new stats on pocket money. 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Markets: ChatGPT IPO, GSK's biggest deal in a decade & a UK takeover 16:19 Inheritance rules: cohabiting couples & passing on wealth 22:30 Shares magazine: AI's next phase & Netflix's growth plans 26:17 UK mortgage access & pocket money stats
In this week’s episode, Charlene Young is joined by new co-host Sarah Coles alongside Tom Sieber to unpack a busy week across markets, tech and personal finance. With geopolitical tensions continuing to weigh on sentiment, the team looks at whether investors are stuck in a holding pattern or if there are more subtle shifts happening beneath the surface. There’s also a deep dive into the latest surge in AI excitement, from a major potential Anthropic IPO to huge fundraising moves by Google parent Alphabet, with takeover chatter in sectors like aviation and renewables. The new Retirement Living Standards are out, showing how inflation is upping the cost of even a modest lifestyle in retirement. Sarah and Charlene also talk about fresh savings and lending data from the Bank of England, and what’s really happening in the UK housing market. The episode concludes with Dan Coatsworth sitting down with Richard Jeffery, executive chair of Reading based firm ActiveOps to find out how AI is central to what they do. In this episode: Market update: geopolitics, oil and investor sentiment [01:46] AI boom: Anthropic IPO and Alphabet’s $80bn raise [04:06] Company news: EasyJet, Drax and defensive stocks that have disappointed [09:15] Retirement Living Standards: how much you really need [13:56] Savings & borrowing: latest Bank of England data [29:29] Housing market outlook and mortgage trends [31:46] Interview: Richard Jeffery, executive chair of ActiveOps [38:25]
This month, the Investment Trust Show focuses in on what makes trusts so unique: from gearing to boards. Hannah Williford and Dan Coatsworth discuss the pros and cons before seeing how they measure up against their sister funds through the numbers. Nick Britton from the Association of Investment Companies joins to explain where the differences emerge. AJ Bell’s Tom Sieber also steps in to interview Utilico Emerging Markets chair Mark Bridgeman to understand what role a board is really playing. Then, two funds investing in private equity, Seraphim Space Investment Trust and ICG, discuss where opportunity lies off the market, and how Seraphim has grown its share price by over 300% in a year. 00:00 Introduction: What makes investment trusts unique 04:30 What does a trust board actually do? (Tom Sieber & Mark Bridgeman) 19:00 Investment trusts vs funds: Who wins? (Nick Britton, AIC) 33:20 Private equity explained: Inside ICG Enterprise Trust (ICG Colm Walsh) 47:45 Space & defence boom: Seraphim Investment Trust (Mark Bogget) 01:06:45 Outro & key takeaways
Less than a year after joining as BP Chairman Albert Manifold has been removed from the company. What does it mean for BP’s turnaround plans is the question that kicks off this episode of the AJ Bell Money and Markets podcast and Danni Hewson and Tom Sieber assess how investors reacted to the news [02:18]. Concerns over Middle East peace talks has seen choppy trade in oil and the price of energy has been in the spotlight as the UK’s new price cap was announced [07:30]. Temperatures might have soared over the late May bank holiday, but B&Q says a late start to spring dented sales and weak consumer spend also took a chunk out of Pets at Home’s full year profits [13:45] plus Ferrari’s first EV has provoked some extreme reaction on social media [23:28]. On the personal finance front, Rachel Vahey is back with another pensions corner, this time chatting about a worrying report from the Pensions Commission which found 15 million people are under saving for retirement [27:15] plus former PM Rishi Sunak’s warned that 4 in 10 Brits lack basic financial literacy with calls for more education to help people make smart financial choices [38:08]. And our guest interview this week is with Andrew Lapping, chief investment officer at Ranmore Fund Management; he’s spoken to Dan about why he’s still a fan of Greggs [44:33].
Cyber shocks, political ripples and pop-powered spending – it’s another packed week on the AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast. Charlene Young and Danni Hewson break down the latest inflation and jobs data, before turning to bond market jitters as political drama heats up. There’s pressure building for businesses too, as Ryanair flags rising fuel costs, and Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover lay bare the growing financial toll of cyber attacks. We also dive into the forces reshaping what was formerly the UK high street, with more big banking brands on brink of disappearing completely, and unpack what a potential mansion tax could mean for homeowners. Plus, two insightful interviews: one exploring how supply chains are becoming a major investment theme, and another on the critical mineral antimony as surging demand drives the reopening of an Australian mine. And to finish, we move from hard economics to headline acts, and look at how Harry Styles’ Wembley run could generate over £1bn in spending, proving the experience economy is alive and well. [00:00] Introduction [01:46] Inflation & jobs – what the latest data tells us [09:35] Gilts, politics & the Makerfield by-election ripple effect [12:10] Ryanair warns on rising oil prices [ 15:26] M&S & JLR – counting the cost of cyber attacks [21:39] Interview: Supply chains with Jamie Mills O’Brien (Aberdeen) [34:13] Bank brands that are set to disappear – Halifax rumours & TSB confirmed changes [36:39] Mansion tax consultation – what’s on the table [40:44] The £1.1bn Harry Styles effect [45:07] Interview: Antimony & critical minerals with Ron Heeks (Larvotto Resources) [54:13] Closing thoughts
In this Deep Dive episode, Tom Sieber and Danni Hewson take a closer look at income investing. Experts from AJ Bell and Jupiter Asset Management join the podcast to discuss common dividend mistakes investors make, the power of compounding and dividend reinvestment, getting income from Asia and how to generate cash through property, infrastructure, and bonds. 00:08 – Introduction: Tom Sieber and Danni Hewson introduce the episode and the evolving world of income. 02:10 – Why people invest for income and the power of compounding. 06:50 – Dividend basics: Tom Sieber explains some of the key points every investor should understand. 09:40 – Danni Hewson looks at share buybacks vs dividends and current UK trends. 17:56 – Tom Sieber then frames the debate around dividend yield vs dividend growth and why you might look for the latter over the former. 23:39 – AJ Bell head of markets Dan Coatsworth joins to talk about common dividend investing mistakes. 30:57 – AJ Bell fund and investment trust writer Eve Maddock-Jones delves into the world of income funds and trusts and the advantages of diversification. 34:45 – Tom talks to Jupiter Asian Income fund manager about why he thinks the region can be a fruitful source of income and growth. 48:34 – Tom explains how you can also derive income from the financial markets through property funds, infrastructure, and bonds. 55:33 – Tom talks to Paul Angell about the role of bonds in an income portfolio. 01:11:36– Tom and Danni wrap up with the key takeaways from the episode including what they’ve learned about income investing.
Join Dan Coatsworth and Charlene Young in the latest edition of the AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast. This week, we delve into the impact of politics on financial markets, focusing on UK government bond yields and the concept of 'bond vigilantes'. Charlene discusses why age 28 is a critical financial year for women, leading to significant pension disparities. We also explore a new report highlighting the risk of pension poverty for 12.2 million UK adults and what can be done to mitigate this issue. Special guest Sarah Willingham, former Dragon's Den judge and now CEO of bars group Nightcap, shares her insights on the challenges facing the hospitality sector. Plus, we revisit some of the success stories from Dragon's Den. Dan also talks to Joe Winkley from Winterflood Securities about why retail investors are starting to have greater opportunities to support company growth plans. Tune in for a comprehensive look at these pressing financial topics and more. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with our latest episodes. 0:09 – Impact of politics on financial markets and the power of ‘bond vigilantes’ 12:06 – Greggs goes to Tenerife 14:35 – Age 28: Financial crunch year for women 24:10 – Risk of pension poverty for 12.2 million UK adults 28:23 – Interview with Sarah Willingham from Nightcap 50:59 – Business winners and losers from Dragon’s Den TV show 54:12 – Tom Sieber on the new issue of Shares magazine 56:25 – Opportunities for retail investors to support company fundraisings
Geopolitics is back in the driving seat for markets as Middle East tensions shake energy prices, government borrowing costs climb and investors revisit whether ‘quality’ shares are due a comeback. We cover the latest updates from Next, Novo Nordisk, HSBC and Diageo, and we speak to Hugh Yarrow of Evenlode Income on why sticking with quality businesses can pay off. Plus on the personal finance side: why cash ISA deposits keep rising, and the everyday luxuries people refuse to give up. Timestamps: [01:19] Geopolitics and markets: Iran/Middle East developments [03:44] Government borrowing costs: what’s driving yields higher [06:29] Next’s latest results [09:56] Novo Nordisk and weight-loss drugs [11:50] HSBC’s profits fall [13:17] Diageo’s World Cup boost [17:27] Interview: Hugh Yarrow (Evenlode Income) on investing in quality companies [33:08] Fuel watch: the impact of oil-market tensions [36:57] Cash ISAs soar in popularity [44:23] Cost-of-living: the ‘luxuries’ people won’t give up
In this episode of the investment trust show, Dan Coatsworth and Hannah Williford explore the trusts offering generous income to investors, the state of US markets and the changes happening to the renewable infrastructure sector. Plus, AJ Bell’s own Eve Maddock-Jones joins for a chat on what you need to know if your trust is winding up. [01:24] Hannah and Eve talk about the latest news in trust windups, and what investors need to be prepared for if theirs is on the chopping block. [10:03] Dan speaks to Felise Agranoff from JP Morgan American Trust about the sentiment surrounding the US in the midst of the US-Iran War. [24:51] Jeremiah Buckley from North American Income Trust joins Hannah for a second US perspective, and talks about why getting dividends from US companies is an underrated approach for investors. [38:11] Ryan Lightfoot-Aminoff from Kepler talks to Dan about finding income in unexpected areas of the market, and why investors are needing to get creative with where they look. [54:19] FGEN’s Charlie Wright rounds off the pod speaking about the state of the renewable energy infrastructure sector, where many trusts are rotating away from their dividend-paying roots.
On this week’s AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast, the Bank of England’s latest rate decision, Big Tech updates from Microsoft, Meta, Amazon and Alphabet, and what the UAE’s exit from OPEC could mean for oil prices as Brent crude climbs. Dan Coatsworth and Danni Hewson discuss BP’s bumper first‑quarter profits and Shell’s $16bn bid for Arc Resources, weak underlying UK retail sales, and the collapse of Claire’s Accessories. Dan also explores why several UK-listed companies have recently fallen into administration. Dan talks to Morningstar’s Grant Slade about mounting political uncertainty ahead of the 7 May local elections and what a change in prime minister could mean for the economy and financial markets. The pod team also debate whether buy‑to‑let still makes sense under the new Renters’ Rights Act. This week’s big interview features investing heavyweight Cathie Wood from Ark Invest who shares her 2026 outlook, including why she’s buying Tesla, selling AMD and remains relaxed about OpenAI’s latest setback. 00:00 Bank of England interest rate decision 00:50 Big Tech earnings: Microsoft, Meta, Amazon and Alphabet 03:03 Oil prices rise as UAE exits OPEC 09:18 BP Q1 profits and Shell’s Arc Resources bid 16:58 UK retail sales slowdown and Claire’s collapse 21:04 Why UK‑listed companies are entering administration 24:02 Grant Slade on local elections, politics and market uncertainty 38:53 Buy‑to‑let and the new Renters’ Rights Act 43:16 Cathie Wood on Tesla, AMD and OpenAI
Charlene Young and Dan Coatsworth bring you this week’s episode of the AJ Bell Money and Markets podcast. Rising UK inflation kicks things off and they’ll also discuss the latest market movements as the middle east conflict continues. Dan digs into plans spin off Primark from Associated British Foods and what it could mean for shareholders and Charlene covers another uncoupling announcement – this time how the government wants to break the link between gas price shock and British energy bills. Apple has named a new CEO as Tim Cook moves up to executive Chairman, TikTok has moved into payments. Is this new debit card venture actually smart innovation? Dan speaks to Bloomberg Intelligence consumer analyst Conroy Gaynor about jet fuel shortages, the impact of the Middle East crisis on airlines, and what it means for investors as we head into peak travel season. Finally, with the government launching a new campaign to encourage first‑time investors, Charlene and Dan explore how people can take those initial steps into investing and why funds are often a sensible starting point. To round this off we bring you a conversation between Danni Hewson and AJ Bell’s James Flintoft on how the AJ Bell funds have been performing. [00:09] Intro [01:05] UK Inflation rises to 3.3% [07:26] Primark IPO [14:11] Government energy price announcement [17:17] New CEO for Apple [21:30] Tiktok debit card [26:18] Interview: How the conflict is affecting on airlines, travellers and investors. Dan Coatsworth talks to Conroy Gaynor from Bloomberg Insights [40:10] New investing campaign [52:22] Interview: Danni Hewson gets the AJ Bell funds latest from James Flintoft
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