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Educational Articles

Knowledge Base

Reading time • 5 minute(s)
Brexit and the UK: The Impact 10 Years After the Brexit Vote and What the Future Holds
The 10-year anniversary of Britain’s decision to leave the EU is coming up. A shock win for the leave campaign rocked financial markets back in 2016, although it was not until January 2020 that the UK ceased to be an EU member state. At the end of 2020, the UK left the single market and customs union and its new trading relationship with the EU came into effect.
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Reading time • 4 minute(s)
What Is a Stock?
Stocks often seem intimidating to beginners, filled with unfamiliar terms and fast-moving prices. In reality, stocks are one of the simplest and most accessible investment tools once you understand how they work. Whether you’re saving for the future, building long-term wealth, or just curious about how markets operate, learning the basics of stocks is a powerful first step.
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Reading time • 5 minute(s)
5 stocks to watch for in 2026
2025 was a strong year for equities. The MSCI World Index rose by 20% in USD terms, and the performance excluding the US was even stronger, the MSCI World ex US index rose by nearly 30%. The question now for investors is, can the rally continue? There has been a lot of anxiety about high valuations, an AI bubble, concerns about the health of the US labour market and the prospects for economic growth, however, stocks have continued to rally even with these fears. As investors consider their portfolios for the new year, the question is how will markets navigate 2026? Although concerns about global growth, the end of monetary policy loosening and high valuations are likely to persist well into the new year, there are also reasons for optimism. Analysts are optimistic about the outlook for earnings in the US, Asia and Europe, with expectations for earnings growth between 13-15%. For Asia and Europe, this rate of earnings growth is unusual, and there is a risk that the bar could be too high. However, a stronger economic outlook, reduced tariff headwinds for the Eurozone, and continued fiscal expansion, especially in the form of defence spending, provides a strong backdrop for European equities this year, and we may see continued outperformance vs. the US.
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Reading time • 2 minute(s)
Three stocks to watch for shareholder returns
When you think of income stocks, dividends usually spring to mind. However, there is another way to return money to shareholders and that is through share buybacks. There has been a buyback boom in the US over the last two decades, with share repurchases eclipsing dividends as the favoured way to return cash to shareholders. For example, roughly two thirds of the biggest US companies have repurchased shares in the last 12 months, according to Morningstar. Although the FTSE 100 traditionally pays a better dividend yield than the US, at 3.16% vs. 1.16% for the S&P 500, share buybacks have soared in the UK, especially since Covid19. The reasons for this include more flexibility, with dividend expectations for payouts every quarter, regardless of the fundamental backdrop. Also dividends can be taxed, and share buybacks are a way to help increase the price of the share price. The UK has recently become the share buyback capital of the developed world, with more companies looking at buying back shares than any other developed market in the last 2 years. Thus, when you’re looking for shareholder returns, think about buybacks and not only dividends. Below we look at 3 stocks that offer strong shareholder returns and could be a good investment.
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Reading time • 4 minute(s)
Is the AI Trade a bubble?
The AI trade has taken a wobble in recent weeks. The sell off was accelerated by President Trump’s threat of further tariffs on China, however, there have been multiple warnings in recent weeks from top investors and even the Bank of England, that the AI trade is looking stretched and could cause disruption to financial markets. David Einhorn, the investor who exposed the subprime mortgage scandal that caused the global financial crisis, said that the amount of capex spending on AI was ‘extreme’ and he questioned if the hyperscalers, who have pledged huge amounts to build out their AI infrastructure, had carefully laid out a return on investment plan or were pressing the trigger because they felt they had to. When David Einhorn speaks, it is worth taking notice.
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Reading time • 4 minute(s)
Rolls Royce: Turbo charging the FTSE 100
When you think of the UK stock market, it may not fill you with enthusiasm. However, there is one stock that is a British success story: Rolls Royce. It is the 5th best performer on the FTSE 100 so far this year and is higher by more than 100%. Its track record over the last 5 years is stunning: it is higher by nearly 3,000%.  It is worth noting that Rolls Royce, the UK-listed company, is distinct from the BMW-owned Rolls Royce luxury car brand. Rolls Royce is a £100bn company and its core operations include civil aerospace, defence and power systems for data centres.
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Reading time • 5 minute(s)
5 FTSE 100 stocks to watch in 2025
The UK is in focus right now. From the threat of the biggest UK companies de-listing from the London Stock Exchange, to concerns about the economic and political landscape, and global tariffs, there has been much to bemoan about the outlook for UK corporates. However, it is not all doom and gloom. The main UK index is outperforming the main US blue chip indices YTD, along with the Eurostoxx 50 index and the Cac 40. Although IPO activity is fairly thin on the ground, and hopes for an anchor company that will list in the UK may not materialize in 2025, there are other reasons for optimism. The Bank of England is set to cut interest rates at the start of August, and there could be more rate cuts on the cards. Several economists think that a weakening labour market and expected tax rises in the October budget could lead to six interest rate cuts over the next year. This could have a significant impact on the UK market. Below, we pick 5 UK stocks that could shine for the rest of this year.
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Reading time • 6 minute(s)
What Are Meme Stocks? Why They’re Surging
Learn what meme stocks are, why they’re gaining attention, and which names like Krispy Kreme and GoPro are leading today’s rally.
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Reading time • 2 minute(s)
Why is Lloyds share price rising?
Lloyds Banking Group has seen a notable surge in its share price, gaining over 7% in recent trading sessions. Several key factors have combined to boost investor confidence in the UK banking giant, making it one of the top-performing stocks in the FTSE 100 this month.
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Reading time • 13 minute(s)
Novo Nordisk: How a Diabetes Drug, Ozempic, Became a Social Media Weight Loss Sensation
How did Ozempic take Novo Nordisk to the next level making it the 12th most valuable company in the world? Novo Nordisk, Danish pharmaceutical giant, has emerged as a leader in diabetes and obesity treatment with its blockbuster drugs Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy. The Danish pharmaceutical giant is already facing booming demand for Wegovy and its diabetes drug Ozempic with the company ramping up production to meet this surge while anticipating further sales growth as supply increases and Wegovy enters new markets. Looking ahead, Novo Nordisk is developing next-generation treatments that combine semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic) with other elements. This strategy aims to enhance weight loss benefits and potentially address other health areas. We can see how 2023 marked a banner year for Novo Nordisk, with Ozempic and Wegovy fueling significant company growth. Just recently, positive news from the FDA further propelled the company's stock to record highs. This excitement has led Novo Nordisk to rank as one of the biggest companies in the world with a market capitalisation of $446.57 billion as of March 27, 2024.  Let's take a look at the company and how it has come so far.
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Reading time • 3 minute(s)
Best Stock Brokers in the UK 2026
Choosing the right stock broker in the UK is essential for investors of all experience levels. Whether you're a beginner exploring commission-free trading or a seasoned investor looking for low fees, advanced tools, and diverse instruments, the right platform can make all the difference. In 2026, XTB stands out as the top choice offering a powerful combination of low-cost trading, user-friendly platforms, and deep market access. But how does it compare with other leading brokers like Trading 212, AJ Bell, Interactive Investor, and eToro? Let’s dive in.
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Reading time • 6 minute(s)
TACO: Trump Always Chickens Out - Why Markets Shrug Off His Tariff Threats
There was a time when Donald Trump could move global markets with a single tweet. Announce a tariff, and the Dow would tumble. Hint at a trade war, and the VIX would spike. Wall Street braced itself every time the caps-lock came out. But not anymore! In 2025, markets have learned the pattern and they’ve stopped caring. Despite Trump’s repeated threats of sweeping tariffs on China, Mexico, or “every country that cheats us,” investors barely blink. The reason? A four-word acronym now guides their thinking: TACO — Trump Always Chickens Out. The phrase, born half in jest and half in frustration, sums up a key lesson from years of policy whiplash: Trump talks tough, markets react... until they don’t. Because more often than not, the tariffs never arrive.
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Reading time • 4 minute(s)
5 Top Stocks to Watch out for Right Now
The stock market has been riding a wave of uncertainty lately, with new tariffs and trade tensions shaking investor confidence. Volatility has become the new normal, leaving many wondering where to put their money to work. In times like these, it's important to focus on companies that can weather the storm and offer long-term potential. With that in mind, here are five stocks to keep an eye on right now each offering a unique opportunity amid the market turbulence.
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Reading time • 3 minute(s)
5 Top Dividend Stocks for 2025 - Strong Picks Amid Market Volatility
With markets under pressure from steep sell-offs, trade war fears, and renewed tariff threats under Trump's latest policies, investors are scrambling for safer ways to protect their wealth. Stocks are volatile, bond yields are falling, and economic uncertainty is rising. In times like these, dividend stocks are more valuable than ever. They not only provide steady passive income but also help cushion portfolios during market downturns. If you're looking for stability while still growing your money, here are the top dividend stocks to watch in 2025. These companies offer strong payouts, reliable cash flows, and a proven track record of riding out market storms making them smart picks for investors who want peace of mind in a turbulent year.
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Reading time • 12 minute(s)
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC): A Global Semiconductor Powerhouse
In a world where technology drives nearly every aspect of life, one company stands as the invisible engine powering the devices we rely on every day — Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). Behind the screens of our phones, the intelligence of artificial intelligence, and the speed of cutting-edge electronics lies TSMC’s ground-breaking chips. TSMC has not only shaped the semiconductor industry but also transformed the global tech landscape. From its modest beginnings to its status as an indispensable part of the global technology supply chain, TSMC’s journey reflects both Taiwan’s rise as a tech powerhouse and the rapid advancements in the semiconductor industry.
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Reading time • 5 minute(s)
When is the Best Time to Buy and Sell Stocks?
You know that feeling when you're rushing to catch a bus, and you just miss it? It’s frustrating. Now, imagine that bus is a stock, and it’s speeding by in front of you. Buy it too early, and you might find yourself stuck in traffic; wait too long, and you’ll see your investment zoom past. Whether you're looking to buy into a company that's about to surge or sell just before it crashes, finding that sweet spot is the key to making the most of your investments. But here’s the catch — nailing the perfect moment to jump in or out is more of an art than a science. So, how do you time the stock market without feeling like you’re gambling with your future?
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