Compare Providers to Choose the Best Stocks and Shares ISA for Your Needs
written by Bella PalmerInflation rates hitting their highest level in years, and expected to still have some way to go before they peak, along with miserly interest rates being given to
In contrast to cash ISAs, stocks and shares ISAs are tax-efficient wrappers that hold risk-based investments such as company shares, government-issued or corporate bonds and different kinds of funds. Other than the difference of their contents, cash and stocks and shares ISAs provide exactly the same tax shelter qualities. Personal allowance levels that can be invested in a stocks and shares ISA are now the same as those for cash ISAs and returns, like the interest rate received for cash ISA balances, are sheltered from counting towards income tax.
However, comparing stocks and shares ISAs is more complicated than comparing Cash ISAs, where the main consideration is simply the interest rate offered. Fee structures for stocks and shares ISAs are more complicated and often vary depending on what investments are held within the ISA. Also, not all stocks and shares ISAs accept the same range of kinds of investments. Choosing investments wisely is also a factor and some stocks and shares ISA providers offer advice or support in this regard and others don’t.
Comparing and contrasting stocks and shares ISA options is not only important for those opening one for the first time. Existing holders should also keep an eye on the market as there could potentially be another provider that offers a better fit and improved terms for a stocks and shares ISA portfolio than it is currently taking advantage of.
Stocks and Shares ISA Providers
Banks usually offer stocks and shares ISAs and it can be tempting for consumers to simply take an offer from the bank current and/or saving accounts are held with. However, the ‘easy option’ of going
Budget Stockbrokers that offer execution only share dealing services with low transaction fees often have among the lowest fees of stocks and shares ISA providers. However, a drawback to budget stockbrokers is that they often only have a limited range of funds on offer and sometimes none at all. Value added resources such as research on different investment options and other content and investment
A stocks and shares ISA with one of this category of providers is probably most suited to more experienced investors who adjust their
Investment platforms
Generally speaking, though the rule is by no means hard and fast, the greater the depth of value added resources such as research and fancy dashboards to track ISA investments, the higher annual fees tend to be. Each individual investor will have their own opinion on what they see value in paying extra for and what they can live without in the interest of lower costs. Some investment platforms also offer an advised service for stocks and shares ISAs, which can make sense for those who don’t feel confident enough to pick their own investments.
Choosing the Best Stocks and Shares ISA for Your Portfolio and Profile
Other than cost, which is of course important, the kind of investments an ISA holder intends to make, if they require advice and what additional support they would like should be used to inform a decision on ISA provider. It does make sense to set aside a few hours to think about requirements and preferences and to conduct a proper comparison of the options available to you. In terms of cost, The Telegraph newspaper has put together a good table covering the cheapest and most expensive providers of stocks and shares ISAs, based on fees for 2017. Also review the market every year or two as switching ISA providers is now an easy process that your new provider will take care of for you.
Disclaimer:
The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of UK Investment Guides. The information provided on UK Investment Guides is intended for informational purposes only. UK Investment Guides is not liable for any financial losses incurred. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions.