Alternative Investments

Alternative investments include works of art, antiques, classic cars, stamps & coins, vintage cognac and wines. Alternative investments can be a lot more fun than the stockmarket or just leaving your cash in a building society. However, they will require specialist knowledge.

People who collect alternative investments often say they receive pleasure from looking at the things they collect- it's probably true that an oil painting is a bit more interesting than a building society passbook.

Be careful though as prices of alternative investments can be erratic. Indeed, there is some evidence that when the economy is in recession prices of alternative investments fall as collectors realise cash. But this isn't always the case.

Alternative investments don't pay interest like banks, but over the longerterm they could well beat the stockmarket for investment returns.

See Also:

Online share dealing service Stockmarket Centre

Last Updated: March 2007 © Moneyextra.com

Our senior editor Robin Amlôt recommends you should consider taking independent financial advice before acting on any article. Please contact us for help with your individual circumstances if any assistance is required.