[Stephen]

HI Guys

I have been advising people on financial planning for ten years now and I would just like to share afew of 'my' truths with you.

#1) Regular self disciplined monthly savings over the medium to long term almost always beats short term rashness.

#2) Ther are zillions of way to invest: Value Investing, Growth Shares, High Yield Shares, Out of Favour shares, etc etc. The easiest and by far the most successful is simply not to try and beat the market (S&P, DJ, FTSE) but just BE the market. If ten percent averaged out per annum is not enough for you (figures over the past 100 years) then possibly a reality check is in order.

#3) Never gamble your money by taking a tip (a professonal one or otherwise). Do you own research.

#4) When the market is on the decline, if you can, invest more.

#5) Adopt a long term buy and hold strategy. This avoids charges and ulcers.

#6) Warren Buffett is a unique case. If you dont want to follow the market, then consider him. He has consistently outperformed the market over the long term.

#7) Never invest what you cant afford to lose.

#8) Always invest with at least a medium (5 year+) term outlook.

#9) Day trading is gambling.

#10) Always invest religiously 'x' amount of your salary/income every month, through thick and thin. The benefits of long term compound interest along with Dollar Cost averaging cannot be emphasised enough.