Moneyspider in the News

Russia ISA top bet for brave

The Sun 

Russia could be a good bet for ISAs investors willing to take a risk this year, according to an online fund analyst. 

Moneyspider.com's Tony Ahearne says the country, with its cheaper stocks and a more open market than China - backed by rising oil prices - looks a worthwhile punt. 

He said: 'We anticipate that more of the smarter ISA money will be winging its way into funds like Neptune Russia and Greater Russia, but it should be remembered that these are higher risk funds and not for everyone.' 

He said investors in the commercial property market sector may well be looking for a 'more seductive option'.  

And he warned: 'Anyone still wondering whether it is worth hanging on to commercial property should, in our view, seize any opportunity they can to get out as soon as possible.' 

But Tony said for those investors wanting to play it safer, corporate bonds may be of interest. 

He said: 'Shares have taken something of a pounding, but if you look at a fund such as Henderson's Strategic Bond fund, which has a Moneyspider 'A' rating and has risen by more than 40 per cent in the past five years, then bonds would appear to be a good bet.' 

Tony added that the UK smaller companies and also UK mid-caps are likely to wobble in 2008, given that many firms in these sectors will be exposed to a slowdown in the domestic economy. 

He predicted energy, oil, mineral, water, gold and alternative eco funds are also likely to do well. 

And he added: 'Funds operating in these sectors are not for the squeamish, but for investors looking for a sexier ISA, the natural resources sector looks like it will continue to flourish.'