PERSONAL ASSETS TRUST: Specifically designed for private investors

PERSONAL ASSETS TRUST: Aims to first protect and then increase the value of private investors’ money

What is it? Unusually for an investment trust, which typically have independent boards who elect a fund manager to run the trust, Personal Assets is run by its own board who make decisions. 

The trust is specifically designed for private investors and aims to protect and increase the value of their money – in that order.

What does it invest in? The trust can invest globally, and 9.1 per cent of investors’ money is in UK stocks while 27.5 per cent is in US companies.

The biggest holdings include Microsoft, Unilever and cigarette firm Philip Morris. But it also holds bonds, precious metals and cash.

What do the experts like? Adrian Lowcock, head of personal investing at Willis Owen, says Personal Assets has ‘a strong board and management team’.

At a time like now when investors are worried about the future, Lowcock adds: ‘Its ability to drive growth over the longer term has been repeatedly proven.’

Any downsides? But equally the trust’s more cautious approach means it can lag when markets are on the rise, and Lowcock says investors need to hold the trust for a long time to maximise return.