‘Last-minute’ investors to make full use of ISA allowance

Leading discount broker Willis Owen has urged ‘last-minute' investors to make full use of their ISA allowance ahead of the tax deadline.Willis Owen expects to see a surge in investments over the next week as people look to secure this year's tax free allowance before midnight on Tuesday 5 April. 

Alan Easter, Director of discount broker Willis Owen, said: "Every year at this time we see a flurry of activity from investors making full use of their ISA allowance before the door shuts for another year. We expect nothing different this year as investors increasingly choose to invest direct via a discount broker, with the savings that brings.

"And with people's finances being squeezed by rising taxation and the increasing cost of living, don't miss out on this year's tax free allowance.

"There are people who don't want to lose their ISA allowance but, because of recent global events in Japan, North Africa and the Middle East, are not sure where to invest right now. If that is the case, you can take advantage of our Cash Reserve. You can invest up to the full ISA limit then decide when the time is right to invest in particular funds, either in a lump sum or by drip feeding your money into the market.

"If you are ready to invest now, we offer a wide range of funds to suit your needs and attitudes to risk. We're seeing a lot of interest at the moment in Emerging Markets and Income funds. Our two most popular at the moment are the Aberdeen Emerging Markets Fund and the Invesco Perpetual Income Fund, both of which are available, along with hundreds of others, at 0% standard initial charge."

Willis Owen has also recently announced a groundbreaking new Price Pledge to its ISA and fund investors, sharing the financial risk with their investors as well as the rewards. The Willis Owen Pledge is that ISA and fund investors will have all trail commission charges refunded if the value of their chosen fund goes down over a 12 month period.  

Alan Easter added: "Consumers want their provider to share the risk in their investment as well as the reward. We must be more transparent with people about the charges on their money and also show that we are on their side.

To make sure you secure your ISA allowance in time, and don't fall foul of any potential administration problems, act now and don't risk leaving it until the last minute."

The Willis Owen ISA Guide 2011 is also available at willisowen.com.